How to Layer Earrings (and how not to!) – The Small Things Blog (2024)

I’m warming up to the multiple earrings trend, are you? It took me a minute to get used to ear huggies and smaller, delicate earrings because I so often wear larger statement earrings, but I’ve found that layering a few favorites still gives you a statement earring look!

When it comes to wearing a few earrings in each ear, I typically try to work from biggest to smallest as I work up the ear.

The largest or longest earring goes in the first hole, closest to my face, and the earrings get smaller or I use studs to fill in the second and third holes in my ear. Sometimes, though, I skip the third hole altogether.

This has been my favorite combination lately:

How to Layer Earrings (and how not to!) – The Small Things Blog (1)

First earring (similar), Second earring (similar)

When I wear a longer earring in the first hole, I typically reach for a stud to go next to it as you can see below.

How to Layer Earrings (and how not to!) – The Small Things Blog (2)

First earring, Second earring

If the first earring is very simple, I like to pair a more statement earring in the second hole, like an ear crawler.

How to Layer Earrings (and how not to!) – The Small Things Blog (3)

First earring, Second earring (similar)

When mixing and matching earrings together, I typically avoid anything with tassels or a statement earring that is larger than about 1.5 inches. I also never wear large studs in the second hole. Pictured below is an example of what not to do! See how sad I am?

How to Layer Earrings (and how not to!) – The Small Things Blog (4)

If you are in the market for some new jewels, I’ve shared on stories that I’ve loved Rocksbox for trying new jewelry! I’ve been a subscriber for many months and would recommend checking it out if you want to try out new jewelry!

I would be remiss not to mention my sister’s jewelry shop and my mom’s as well!

You can also click on any of the images below to shop some of my personal favorites!

How to Layer Earrings (and how not to!) – The Small Things Blog (5)

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AA says · 12.04.19

Love this post and the earrings you picked out!

Reply

Michele says · 12.04.19

I’m too traumatized from seeing eveyine I high school (1996-2000) over piercing their entire ear. It was not a look for anyone. I was one of the few to only have one hole in each ear. I barely even remembered to put something in one set of holes, never mind multiple!

I have one pair of diamond studs that I wore almost all of the time, but since my son was born two years ago, I barely wear them because he noticed them and went to pull and that was it for earrings for me until very recently. This was not the case with my daughter. With the array of statement earrings you wear, have you had issues with any of your kids going to pull on them, or do you have fear that you’ll catch them in your diaper bag or something?

Reply

Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog says · 12.05.19

I love the way you styled your earrings! Makes me want to pierce more areas of my ears now! ❤️✨

Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog
http://charmainenyw.com

Reply

Kyly says · 12.05.19

I love ear crawlers, but they always turn on me and point down after a while. Any tips on keeping them in place? Or did I just get duds? Thanks!

Reply

Kate says · 12.06.19

Sometimes that happens to me. It depends on how flexible the post is allowing me to sort of “pinch” it together, you know what I mean?

Reply

Angela says · 12.05.19

Gorgeous looks and great tips! I only have one hole to work with on each side, so I’ll need to invest in some clip-ons to do these!

Angela at Blush & Pearls

Reply

Irene says · 12.05.19

Love your advice! Where are those cute (large) hoops in the last picture from?
Thanks

Reply

Kate says · 12.06.19

Gorjana!

Reply

Katty says · 12.05.19

Love your sweater! Where is it from?

Reply

Kate says · 12.06.19

It’s from Amazon, the link is: https://rstyle.me/+IelBoLN-jC6DvVUwzqcRFg

Reply

Ramona says · 12.05.19

I swear you are aging in reverse Kate! This looks lovely on you! 🌸 you’ve inspired me

Reply

Lauren says · 12.06.19

It’s called photoshop, she is quite the pro at using it.

Reply

Kate says · 12.06.19

Lauren, I’ve been doing this for almost 10 years so I’m not naive to a comment like this. I assure you if you were to look over my shoulder while I was working in photoshop you would not call me a pro. But again–I fully know that you left this comment to be rude and hateful.
I will never, ever be able to understand why someone would voluntarily involve themself in something they don’t like or enjoy but it’s evident that we think differently about the world.
Do not involve other readers, like Ramona, who was leaving a kind comment, with your unwelcome, untrue commentary. There are other places for that kind of discussion and I won’t allow it here.

Reply

Gina says · 12.05.19

What lipstick are you wearing in this blog? Thanks.

Reply

Kate says · 12.06.19

This is Bare Minerals Tutu!

Reply

Kristina says · 12.05.19

I love Cupcake and Cashmere’s line of small delicate earrings!

Reply

Jody says · 12.06.19

Thanks Kate. I used your hair tutorials back in 2014 and always thought they were the best. I couldn’t remember your name but found a link in my history email file from then—2014!! So happy you are still doing your work on the all important small things!! Jody. WIsconsin

Reply

Kate says · 12.13.19

Thanks for sharing! They are all so cute!

-Kate
https://daysofkate.com/

Reply

Megan says · 05.09.20

The link to your first earring in the second picture doesn’t work 🙁 I love it so much, where is it from??

Reply

inspiredsilver says · 06.09.20

These blogs are really very helpful to every woman who follows fashion and loves to wear designer earring

Reply

inspiredsilver says · 07.04.20

This is so cute, Please share more interesting blog like this

Reply

inspiredsilver says · 07.10.20

Its a really nice website. I actually love Oxidized earring,

Reply

Lynn says · 06.22.21

Hi! Would you ever do a 1/3 carat diamond stud in the first hole and a mini huggie hoop with pave in the second hole? I’m so conditioned to do the opposite (huggie then stud), but think I may try it.

Reply

Farinaz says · 02.06.22

Hi. Ive a big diamond stud in my first ear hole.
Just got a second one made.
What would be the ideal thing to wear in it?
A snug diamond loop is what I like, but I’m confused.

Reply

Bella says · 06.27.22

Im interested in getting a second piercing but want to keep my first earring the same. It’s a good sized pearl but I’m not sure what would look best considering I only wear silver jewelry. Any suggestions?

Reply

Janne Mize says · 08.28.22

I love the 3 diamond ear crawler in this post! Can you share where it came from? Love your blog/site!

Reply

How to Layer Earrings (and how not to!) – The Small Things Blog (2024)

FAQs

How do you layer multiple earrings? ›

For layering earrings, we love stacking the largest earrings in the first hole, followed by smaller earrings. In this case, we put the gold hoops in the first hole, followed by the triple huggies, and this turquoise ear cuff.

How do I keep my earrings organized? ›

How to Store Earrings. You definitely want to keep earrings stored in their own compartments, either in a drawer or an organizer that hangs from a hook or closet rod. Dangly earrings are best stored in a way that allows them to hang freely. Keep a stash of extra earring backs close by for emergencies.

How do you layer an ear piercing? ›

The cascading rule is when you have your larger, more dangly pieces at the front (your firsts, seconds, etc.) and smaller, more huggie or stud pieces the higher you go up the ear (thirds, conch, helix, etc.). This gives the effect of an effortless, elongated ear stack, balanced by the height of your jewelry.

Can you put two earrings in one hole? ›

Turns out it's entirely possible to wear two earrings in one piercing! Pull off this fake-out with an ear climber and an earring that doesn't sit on the ear like a hoop or a dangle. Depending on the size of your piercing, you may only be able to do this with a thinner gauge post or ear wire.

Does the bigger earring go in the first hole or second? ›

The large earring (usually hoops) is worn on the first ear piercing, then stacked up with smaller studs or even a huggie. So, we've rounded up our favourite pierced ears look here with loads of inspiration lineups, have a look through before you book that second (or fifth) piercing appointment.

How do you make multiple ear piercings look classy? ›

You can try just about anything, from wearing coloured huggies all up your lobes, to sticking to studs in all the holes. You can mix and match, playing with different lengths and sizes, and add in ear cuffs to give the look an edge. You can also experiment with different styles that fit your personal aesthetic.

Are you supposed to keep earrings in all the time? ›

It is advisable to take your favourite earrings off from time to time to let your ears “breathe”. The reason behind this is that your earrings could trap dirt and bacteria (or shampoo) if you leave them on 24/7, which can lead to infections.

Are you supposed to rotate your earrings? ›

Day to Day Piercing Care: Dos & Don'ts

There's no reason to rotate your piercing. You could damage the delicate, healing skin by rotating the jewelry. In the past, rotating the jewelry was recommended, but it has been found to cause damage that can lead to infection and scarring.

How do you balance earrings? ›

To get a perfect balance look you could try :
  1. Pairing a small hoop or stud in one lobe with a larger hoop or statement earring in the other lobe.
  2. Wearing three small hoops or studs in each lobe.
  3. Alternating between different earrings in each lobe.

What is the trend in ear piercings in 2023? ›

The key earscaping trends for 2023

The consensus among experts is that forward-helix piercings are also trending, along with 'constellation' piercings (a smattering of delicate studs that create a pattern across the ear) and 'snake bite' piercings – a double set of studs spaced side by side.

How do you start an ear stack? ›

An ear stack is created by wearing multiple earrings in various piercings. It is most easily created when the wearer already has multiple ear piercings, but the same look can be achieved using clip-on earrings or ear cuffs.

Is wearing two different earrings a trend? ›

Wearing two different studs, hoops, or any other kind of earring on both ears is a look that's been seen everywhere from the runways to the streets for a while now. And recently, the versatile look that offers a cool, non-traditional spin on ear jewelry has been even more popular.

How much space should be between earrings? ›

We recommend spacing the second piercing at least ¼” apart from the first piercing to prevent the earring ornament and backs from touching. This will also ensure enough space so that you can wear a variety of different size of earrings.

How far apart should earrings be? ›

So the second piercing should be at least 8mm away from the center of the first hole, so the jewelry in the first and second holes do not touch. Even spacing between ear lobe holes two and up the ear is a matter of style. The real complaint about spacing is when there is a misalignment between holes.

What does huggie earring mean? ›

What are huggie earrings? Huggie earrings take their name from their design. Most often they consist of small, metal hoops that 'hug' the ear, very close to the earlobe. They are also known as huggie hoop earrings. Huggies are designed with two different back closures, lever or hinged back (latch) closings.

What does it mean to pierce your left ear? ›

In the 1980s and 1990s, there was a saying recited by men that helped them decide which ear to pierce. “Left is right, right is wrong.” The meaning behind this phrase is that men who pierce their left ears are heterosexual, and men who pierce their right ears are hom*osexual.

What is the most common earring size? ›

“Standard size is 18 g, which is what I mostly use for all my ear piercings," Thompson reveals. "For piercings in general, 18 g through 16 g is the most common.

What is the most classy ear piercing? ›

Helix Piercing

This is the most popular type of cartilage piercing– stylish and classy with a little bit of edge! A helix piercing is any piercing in the upper cartilage of the ear. Huggie hoops always look great in a helix.

Which ear piercing is most attractive? ›

Answer: Conch ear-piercing is considered to be one of the most attractive of all piercings.

What happens if you never take out your earrings? ›

Wearing the same earrings for a long time without cleaning the piercing can cause bacteria to become trapped. This may lead to an infection. Signs of an infection include: redness.

Is it better to sleep with earrings in or out? ›

The general rule is to avoid wearing earrings while sleeping, with the exception of when you get a new piercing. You will need to keep these small studs in place for 6 weeks or so, or until the piercing heals.

Is it OK to wear the same earrings everyday? ›

You may consider wearing the same earrings every day a style statement, but avoid falling into this habit. Changing out your earrings daily to compliment your outfit can remind you of pairs you have forgotten. There is nothing better than having the perfect pair of earrings for the perfect outfit or occasion.

What foods to avoid after ear piercing? ›

Don't eat spicy, salty or acidy foods or liquids while you are healing. Avoid hot drinks such as hot chocolate, coffee, and tea. Eat cold foods and drinks as they lessen swelling. Be extra careful when eating crunchy foods.

What is the most painful piercing on ear? ›

The snug piercing is known to be the most painful ear piercing for the majority of people to receive. On the pain scale, it ranks at around a 9/10 compared to other piercings. However, keep in mind that even the most painful piercings will likely hurt less than getting a paper cut.

What not to do after getting a piercing? ›

Stay out of pools, hot tubs, rivers, lakes and other bodies of water while your piercing is healing. Don't fiddle with your piercings. Don't touch a new piercing or twist the jewelry unless you're cleaning it. Keep clothing away from the piercing, too.

How often should you spin your earrings? ›

After the 1st day rotate earrings one full turn at least 3-5 times per day, for the next 2 weeks only, as this promotes healing. Always wash your hands with antibacterial soap before touching your ears or earrings during the healing process.

Do you twist or pull flat back earrings? ›

Screw in Flat Backs

With most flat back earrings, you screw the top, decorative bit into the backing post. However, some earrings may be reversed, so you will need to unscrew the flat back piece from the stud. The screw in flat back earring is also called an internally threaded flat back.

What is the anxiety ear piercing? ›

A daith piercing is located in the innermost fold of your ear. Some people believe that this piercing can help ease anxiety-related migraines and other symptoms. Although the evidence is primarily anecdotal, there's some research around the piercing's proposed mechanism of action.

What is the best season to get ear piercing? ›

However, less blood flow also means less possibility of swelling, so you may want to schedule your piercing for winter. If you play summer sports, or hit the pool frequently during summer, it might be better for you to get your piercing in winter to give it enough time to heal and ready to show it off in summer!

Which year is best for ear piercing? ›

While it may not be wrong to have your baby's ears pierced in their first years of life, it is ideal to wait until they can play an active role. A child younger than four years is not in a position to take care of a piercing on their own.

What is a clicker earring? ›

What Are Clicker Rings? A clicker ring distinguishes itself from other types of rings because it has a hinged clasp. The clasp on one end snaps between two slots on the other end, ensuring it's secured. It provides a 'click' sound when properly fastened, which is where this ring gets its name.

What is the difference between huggie and hoop earrings? ›

One of the most common questions at our jewellery store is, "What is the difference between Huggie and hoop earrings?" The answer is actually quite simple. Huggie earrings are smaller and fit snugly against the earlobe, while hoop earrings are larger and circle around the entire ear.

Should you wear both earrings and a necklace together? ›

The key to a successful pairing is stud earrings. Because statement necklaces are large, it's best to follow an old, but useful rule: opposites attract. By pairing a big necklace with small earrings that don't dangle or infringe upon the necklace, both items are able to shine.

What are double earrings called? ›

Helix Piercing

A helix placement generally refers to any piercing in this outer upper region. A double or triple helix (two to three holes in this area) offer a concentrated and layered look. Helix piercings typically hurt more than a lobe piercing but are relatively moderate compared to other non-lobe placements.

How should I stack my earrings? ›

The cascading rule is when you have your larger, more dangly pieces at the front (your firsts, seconds, etc.) and smaller, more huggie or stud pieces the higher you go up the ear (thirds, conch, helix, etc.). This gives the effect of an effortless, elongated ear stack, balanced by the height of your jewelry.

What is the one earring rule? ›

Pre-Y2K (and beyond), it's been socially understood that wearing one earring on the right ear means someone is gay; the left, straight.

Do bigger earrings go on top or bottom? ›

The general rule is to leave larger earrings for your lowest piercing, like your bottom lobe. Pick smaller earrings, like cusps or studs, for higher on your lobe or cartilage. Keeping the smaller earrings on the top and the larger pieces on the bottom helps to create a balanced look.

Is it OK to wear 2 earrings in one hole? ›

Turns out it's entirely possible to wear two earrings in one piercing! Pull off this fake-out with an ear climber and an earring that doesn't sit on the ear like a hoop or a dangle. Depending on the size of your piercing, you may only be able to do this with a thinner gauge post or ear wire.

How long is too long to keep earrings in? ›

Yes, you can take your earrings out after 6-8 weeks if they feel ready, but don't leave them out! They will still close quickly since they're relatively new. Leave your earrings in as often as you can for roughly a year before going extended periods without them.

Can you wear 2 different earrings in each ear? ›

If you're wondering, is it okay to wear mismatched earrings or when can I wear different earrings? The answer is: yes and anytime! The beauty of personal style is that there are no rules.

How far apart should first and second earrings be? ›

We recommend spacing the second piercing at least ¼” apart from the first piercing to prevent the earring ornament and backs from touching. This will also ensure enough space so that you can wear a variety of different size of earrings.

What is the best earring for multiple piercings? ›

Huggies - Huggie earrings, which are smaller hoops which hug closely to the ear, make an excellent option for multiple piercing locations.

How long do you have to keep your double earrings in? ›

After getting your ears pierced, it's important to care for them. Leave the earrings in your ears for six weeks or more, even at night. Always wash your hands before touching newly pierced ears. Gently wash your piercings with a mild, fragrance-free soap and water at least once a day.

Should I take my earrings out every once in a while? ›

Is it OK? The general rule of thumb is to avoid sleeping in earrings, with one exception: when you get a new piercing. You'll need to keep these small studs in for 6 weeks or longer, or until your piercer gives you the OK.

Why do I have to wait 2 weeks to change earrings? ›

Just like other piercings, there is a wait time before you can change your earrings after getting them done. This is to ensure that the piercing heals properly without any infection.

Where do you put a second earring? ›

So the second piercing should be at least 8mm away from the center of the first hole, so the jewelry in the first and second holes do not touch. Even spacing between ear lobe holes two and up the ear is a matter of style. The real complaint about spacing is when there is a misalignment between holes.

What kind of earrings go with everything? ›

Stud Earrings

There's a reason the stud is your first earring. Besides the whole piercing process, it simply goes with everything. They add an easy touch of sparkle that can be worn no matter the occasion—gym and pool included.

What not to do with new earrings? ›

Don't touch a new piercing or twist the jewelry unless you're cleaning it. Keep clothing away from the piercing, too. Excessive rubbing or friction can irritate your skin and delay healing. Keep the jewelry in place.

What are stacking earrings? ›

Starting with a stud, followed by a tight huggie and topping off with a large hoop or a statement drop earring. Stacking with a range of styles allows you to personalise your look and easily switch it up everyday. A great choice for those who struggle to decide which earrings to wear daily.

What is the most versatile piercing? ›

Helix Piercing

Once someone has one (or more!) ear lobe piercings, their next stop is often the helix piercing. It's an incredibly versatile piercing that can show off a variety of unique jewelry options.

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