Stack earrings have become a popular jewelry trend in recent years. As the name suggests, stack earrings involve wearing multiple earrings in each ear to create a layered, stacked effect. From dainty studs to bold hoops, stack earrings allow you to mix and match different earring styles to create a unique look. In this article, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about the stack earring trend, including the history, different stacking styles, tips for choosing earrings, and how to style them.
The History of Stack Earrings
While stack earrings may seem like a modern trend, the practice of stacking multiple earrings in each ear actually dates back thousands of years. In ancient civilizations like Egypt, Mesopotamia, Greece, and Rome, it was common for women to wear multiple earrings in each ear. This style provided visual interest and was also thought to indicate wealth and status.
Stack earrings saw a resurgence in the 1980s and 90s, when it became fashionable to wear multiple studs and hoops in each ear. The trend was popularized by celebrities like Madonna, who often wore layers of mismatched earrings. In the early 2000s, stack earrings were common in hip hop, punk, and grunge styles. More recently, the Coachella music festival and boho-chic trends have helped bring stack earrings back into the mainstream.
Different Stacking Styles
There are endless possibilities when it comes to stacking and layering earrings. Here are some of the most popular stack earring styles:
- Studs: Mixing and layering stud earrings of different sizes is a simple way to stack earrings. Graduated studs from small to large make a subtle statement.
- Hoops: Stack hoops of descending sizes in one ear for an eye-catching look. Or wear hoops of mixed metals and colors in both ears.
- Chains: Delicate chain earrings look beautiful layered with studs or hoops. Chains in different lengths add fluidity.
- Ear jackets: Ear jackets, which hug the curve of the ear, create an interesting stacked effect when paired with studs.
- Mismatched: For an eclectic style, stack earrings of different styles, metals, stones, and colors. Let your creativity run wild!
When stacking earrings, you can maintain symmetry by wearing the same combination in both ears. Or embrace the mismatch look by wearing different styles in each ear. Feel free to mix classic earrings with modern statement pieces for an unexpected stacked style.
Tips for Choosing Earrings
When curating your stack earring collection, keep these tips in mind:
- Choose earrings in a variety of shapes, textures, and sizes for lots of layering options.
- Look for high-quality metals that won’t tarnish, like 14k gold, sterling silver, and stainless steel.
- Focus on timeless styles that you can wear for years, along with a few trendy statement pieces.
- Opt for lightweight, comfortable earrings that won’t weigh down your ears or cause irritation.
- Make sure earrings have secure backings. Friction backs and hinged hoops work best for stacking.
- Start with basics like studs, huggies, and mini hoops to build up your earring wardrobe.
- Look for earrings with movement and fluid shapes to complement the layered look.
| Earring Style | Best For Stacking |
|---|---|
| Studs | Petite studs, birthstone studs, diamond studs |
| Hoops | Mini hoops, huggies, hoops with texture |
| Ear jackets | Open ear jackets, orbital ear jackets |
| Chains | Short delicate chains, lariat chains |
| Cuffs | Open cuffs, slim cuffs |
When first venturing into stack earrings, start with fewer layers and build up over time as your ears adjust. Layering three earrings is a good starting point. Make sure to remove your earrings before sleeping and give your ears a break from time to time.
How to Style Stack Earrings
The great thing about stack earrings is that they complement a wide variety of styles. Here are some tips for styling your stack earrings:
- Let your stack earrings be the focus by keeping the rest of your jewelry minimal. Avoid bold necklaces or bracelets that will compete for attention.
- Show off your earring stacks by pulling your hair back in a ponytail, bun or braids.
- Choose uncomplicated clothing pieces like tanks, t-shirts, button-downs, and sweaters to let your earrings stand out.
- For a perfectly curated look, coordinate your earring metals and stones with other accessories like rings and bangles.
- Stack earrings pair well with casual, boho looks. But they can also add an unexpected touch to dressy outfits.
- Go for asymmetry and embrace the mismatched look by pairing different earrings in each ear.
Here are some chic ways to wear stack earrings for popular styles and occasions:
| Outfit | Stack Earring Ideas |
|---|---|
| Casual jeans and tee | Mini hoops, studs, chain earrings |
| Date night dress | Pearl studs, diamond hoops, ear jackets |
| Boho maxi dress | Charm earrings, engraved hoops, studs |
| Yoga or gym clothes | Metal studs, huggies, cuffs |
| Cocktail party | Chain tassels, gemstone studs, crystal hoops |
Caring for Stack Earrings
To keep your stack earrings looking their best:
- Store earrings properly in a jewelry box or earring organizer to prevent tangling and damage.
- Clean earrings regularly with soft cloth to remove dirt, skin oils and lotions.
- Use polishing cloths on metals and avoid submerging earrings in water.
- Take earrings off before sleeping, exercising, showering or swimming.
- Have clasps and posts checked regularly and fixed as needed by a jeweler.
- Wrap chains gently to prevent kinking and keep dust out of crevices with a soft brush.
- Consider having valuable stack earrings professionally appraised and insured.
The Pros and Cons of Stack Earrings
Here’s a quick overview of the advantages and potential drawbacks of the stack earring trend:
Pros
- Endless styling possibilities – mix and match for unique looks
- Make an eye-catching statement with layers of earrings
- Great way to display a curated earring collection
- From minimalist to dramatic, works with many styles
- Easy to switch up your look just by changing up your stacks
Cons
- Can feel heavy or uncomfortable if too many layers
- Earlobe stretching or irritation possible if not careful
- Sleeping and hair styling requires removing stack
- More possibility of losing an earring with multiple pairs
- Not ideal for children or those with sensitivities
Popular Earring Stacks to Try
Need some stack earring inspiration? Here are a few pretty and popular earring combinations to try in both ears:
- Diamond stud, pearl stud, small hoop
- Paperclip chain, huggie hoop, stud
- Mini hoop, midi hoop, hoop with charm
- Pave stud, gemstone post, linear drop earring
- Pearl stud, gold orb, threader hoop
- Safety pin style, chain tassel, cuff
Use these ideas as a starting point, and get creative mixing different textures, metals, and stones. Stack earrings are the perfect way to express your personal style and elevate any outfit.
Conclusion
Stack earrings continue to be a chic jewelry trend that allows for personalized styling and making a fashion statement. With myriad options, from dainty stud stacks to dramatic chain and hoop combinations, there are endless possibilities. When starting out, go for lighter earrings and fewer layers. Then build up your stackable earring collection for bolder looks over time. With proper care and storage, stack earrings can stay beautiful for many seasons. So embrace this fun trend and get ready to turn heads with your own signature earring stacks!