Years ago, I had a boozed-filled night out on St. Marks Place in New York City's East Village—a street famous for its thrift stores and indie shops—that ended with six new piercings. It's one drunk purchase I will never regret; I've adorned my ears with a mix of hoops and studs every day since.
Lucky for me, delicate hoop earrings are a versatile jewelry staple that withstand the test of time. We sat down with jewelry expert, designer, and cofounder of DTC jewelry brand the Last Line, Shelley Sanders, to get her tips on how to layer earrings like a pro.
Marie Claire: How do you style tiny hoops?
Shelley Sanders: You can wear them symmetrically, one on each ear, or doubled on the same ear for a cool edge. Small huggies are typically best for a second hole piercing on the lobe; you’ll also see them in cartilage piercings. I love a graduated look: Start with your biggest hoop at the lobe and gradually go smaller up the ear.
MC: What should you look for when purchasing these earrings?
SS: I think everyone should own a pair of diamond huggies, as you will wear them forever. I would recommend your pair being fine (14 karat or above) and either yellow or white gold. Size is personal preference; some people prefer them to be snug to the ear, while others like a little space between for a drop. As someone with 17 piercings, I am almost always wearing a few different tiny hoops.
Shop our top picks:
When it comes to the products Marie Claire recommends, we take your faith in us seriously. Every product that we feature comes recommended by a MC writer or editor, or by an expert we've spoken to. Learn more about how we review products.
A version of this article appears in the Fall 2020 issue of Marie Claire.
RELATED STORY
-
Your Hairstylist's Favorite Hair Brand Just Landed at SephoraThe if-you-know-you-know cult classic is going mainstream.
-
I Need All of My Lip Products to Come With a Donut Applicator From Now OnI put four viral tinted serums to the test.
-
Princess Margaret's "Ill-Mannered" Comments to Queen Elizabeth and Queen Mother Often Had "Courtiers Shaking Their Heads"The late royal was known for her one-liners.
-
Here’s What Marie Claire Editors Are Buying for Valentine's DayFrom cherry red heels to sweet-smelling candles, we're oh-so in love with these products.
-
Dua Lipa's Rumored Engagement Ring From Callum Turner Is on Full Display in Her Latest SelfieThe singer gave fans a closer look at the huge diamond ring, which is allegedly worth $30,000.
-
Hailey Bieber Is the Quintessential Rich Mom Styling a Fur Coat, Massive Designer Bag, and Luxury StrollerThe Rhode Beauty founder keeps expanding her collection of mom-friendly designer bags.
-
A Classic White T-Shirt Is the Best Winter Styling PieceThis basic is the secret ingredient to creating the perfect outfit.
-
Jennifer Lopez’s Masterclass in Making Every Outfit Look Like a Billion DollarsThe secret to J.Lo’s impossibly glam style? It’s not just the Birkins—it’s the strategy. Here’s how she makes every single piece exude pure luxury.
-
Spring 2025 Trends I'm Already Shopping On-Sale From COS, Mango, and ReformationSnag these sought-after styles before anyone else (and for less).
-
Here's How Regular People Can Style Leggings Like a Miu Miu ModelTen outfits that showcase the stretch pant's elevated everyday potential.
-
10 Must-Haves Marie Claire Editors Are Buying to Kickstart 2025Our team's investing in these items to start the new year right.
