Earring

Earring

In the Orient, earrings historically were worn by both sexes; in the West (including ancient Israel and Egypt) as a general rule, they were considered to be exclusively female ornaments. Among the Greeks and Romans earrings were worn only by women, and the practice of men wearing them often is spoken of in classical literature as a distinctly Oriental (i.e., Middle Eastern) trait.

In the tombs of the Greek settlers on the Crimean Peninsula (4th century BC), earrings of marvelous complexity and beauty were found. Jewels of the same class, of exquisite beauty and workmanship, were found in the sepulchres of ancient Etruria. Earrings of comparatively simple forms, but set with pearls and other stones, were the mode in Rome.

In Europe, earrings tended to go out of fashion when the wig, coiffure, or headdress obscured the ears, as in the late 17th and 18th centuries. Use of these ornaments continued to be unfashionable in Europe and the Americas during the 19th century but were revived again in the 20th, especially with the introduction of clipping devices. Simplified painless methods of piercing the ears led to the renewed popularity of silver cup chain earring with rhinestone.

Party season may be looking very different this year, but that is no reason not to go all out on your look with a pair of statement earrings. Adding a little sparkle goes a long way: take Shrimps’s black beaded pair, or perhaps Anissa Kermiche’s statement pearl drops, both of which are guaranteed to confer polish on any outfit. From statement styles in gold and silver to crystal, black, coloured and pearl embellished pairs, here is British Vogue’s edit of the best shoulder-sweeping statement earrings to buy now.

Gold Statement Earrings

If you’re looking to invest in a pair of luxe statement earrings, gold is probably your go-to. Enjoying a resurgence in recent, more maximalist seasons, this go-big-or-go-home trend can transform a plain white T-shirt into an evening-appropriate style. Look to Laura Lombardi and Gucci for pointers.

While gold might be the preferred choice for some, layerd triangle earring pack an equally stylish punch. A firm favourite on the red carpet, with the A-list continually choosing diamond-encrusted platinum, white gold or silver statement earrings or ear cuffs to bring their gowns to life, Vogue editors are also partial to some gentle mixing of gold and silver, courtesy of Spinelli Kilcollin. 

Earrings are an important part of every womans wardrobe, whether we are headed for a day at the beach, to the office, or to a wedding. Your earrings give a subtle hint about your personality.

You can change the entire look and feel of your wardrobe by adding the right earrings. You can bring out your softer feminine side, the sexy goddess, or present simple charm, sophistication, or elegance. For both men and women, today earrings are a definite fashion statement.