Earrings have a rich and varied history that reflects cultural, social, and fashion trends across the ages. Before we get into the specifics of which earrings are best for which face shape, let's take a whistle-stop tour through the evolution of this particular piece of jewelry from ancient times all the way through to the present day!

Ancient Times

Earrings date back to ancient civilizations, with the earliest evidence from Sumeria around 2500 BCE. In ancient Egypt, earrings were worn by both men and women as a sign of wealth and status. Gold hoops and elaborate designs featuring precious stones were common. Similarly, in Ancient Greece and Rome, earrings were popular among affluent women and often depicted deities, animals, or mythological scenes.

The Middle Ages

During the Middle Ages in Europe, earrings fell out of favor due to the prevalence of elaborate headpieces and hairstyles that covered the ears. However, they remained popular in the Byzantine Empire and among nomadic tribes, where they continued to symbolize wealth and social standing. Simple hoops and small gemstone studs were common among those who did wear earrings.

The 1950s & 1960s

The post-war era saw a resurgence of earrings as a fashion accessory. The 1950s were marked by classic, elegant styles such as pearl studs and understated gold earrings, reflecting the era's conservative fashion. In the 1960s, fashion became more experimental, with mod and bohemian influences. Bold, colorful designs and oversized hoops became trendy, reflecting the decade's spirit of change and rebellion.

The 1970s & 1980s

The 1970s continued the trend of bold and diverse earring styles. Hippie culture popularized natural materials and ethnic-inspired designs, while disco's influence brought glitz and glam with large, sparkly earrings. The 1980s took earrings to new heights of extravagance. The era was defined by big, bold, and often gaudy designs, including large hoops, geometric shapes, and the iconic shoulder-grazing chandelier earrings, embodying the decade's maximalist fashion ethos.

The 1990s To Present Day

The 1990s introduced a more minimalist and grunge-inspired aesthetic. Simple studs, small hoops, and understated designs became fashionable, influenced by the era's countercultural movements. The early 2000s saw a mix of styles, from the minimalist to the extravagant, as fashion became more eclectic.

Since the 2010s, earring trends have been diverse, reflecting broader fashion trends that embrace individuality. Statement pieces, mismatched pairs, earring stacking and innovative materials have all found their place in modern fashion. Earrings have become a form of personal expression, with styles ranging from delicate earcuffs to bold, sculptural designs.

Types Of Earrings

There are more different types of earrings than you might think, let's take a look at some of the most common. It's important to be as clued on the various styles as you can be if you want to find the perfect pair of earrings for your signature look. The perfect earrings can make or break an entire outfit!

Stud Earrings

Simple and elegant, these small earrings sit directly on the earlobe, typically featuring a single gemstone or metal ball.

Drop Earrings

Featuring a design that hangs below the earlobe, these earrings add subtle movement and can vary in length and style.

Cluster Earrings

Made of multiple gemstones or beads grouped together, creating a clustered effect for a bold and textured look.

Dangle Earrings

Similar to drop earrings but with more intricate designs that swing freely below the earlobe, offering eye-catching movement.

Hoop Earrings

Circular or semi-circular earrings that loop through the earlobe, ranging from small and understated to large and dramatic.

Huggie Earrings

Small, thick hoops that "hug" the earlobe closely, providing a snug and chic appearance.

Chandelier Earrings

Ornate and elaborate earrings with multiple tiers or layers that resemble a chandelier, perfect for formal occasions.

Threader Earrings

Featuring a thin chain that threads through the earlobe, allowing for a delicate and modern look with customizable length.

Jacket Earrings

Comprising a front stud and a decorative piece that attaches behind the earlobe, adding a unique and versatile twist to traditional studs.

Choosing Earrings For Your Face Shape

Moving on to the main event! If you have ever wondered which type of earring is the most flattering for you, or which type of earring you need to avoid based on your facial features, then you have certainly come to the right place. Without further ado, let's dive into what the beauty and fashion industries have to say about matching particular jewelry shapes to particular face shapes.

Oval Shaped Face

Characteristics: Balanced proportions, slightly narrower at the jaw than at the temples.

Almost any earring style suits the natural beauty of an oval face shape due to its balanced proportions. Circular stud earrings, hoops, drops, chandeliers, and threaders all work well. For a striking effect, opt for teardrop shapes and ovals to enhance the natural symmetry of your face. You can get away with chunky earrings. The earring choices are all open to those with oval faces.

Square Shaped Face

Characteristics: Strong jawline, broad forehead, and cheekbones of similar width. Sharp angles.

Soften the angles of a square face shape with earrings that add length and curves. Drop earrings and dangle earrings with elongated shapes work well. Oval and teardrop are flattering earrings help to elongate the face, while hoops and circular designs add a touch of softness. There is a wide choice of earrings for square faces.

Round Shaped Face

Characteristics: Full cheeks, rounded chin, rounded jawline, equal width, and length with soft curves.

Lengthen and add definition to a round face with earrings that create a vertical line. Long drop earrings, dangle earrings, and threader earrings are ideal. Avoid large circular earrings, which can emphasize the roundness. Opt for angular designs like geometric shapes to add definition. When chosen correctly, round is a versatile face shape for earrings.

Diamond Shaped Face

Characteristics: Narrow forehead and strong narrow jawline with broad, high wider cheekbones.

Balance the cheekbones and soften the overall look with earrings that are wider at the bottom. Teardrop earrings and chandeliers work beautifully to add width to the lower part of the face. Avoid overly long and thin earrings with a diamond face shape, as they can emphasize the narrow chin.

Rectangular Face Shape

Characteristics: Long and narrow with a squared jaw and forehead.

Add width and soften the length of a rectangular face with earrings that emphasize width rather than length. Studs, cluster earrings, and short dangles are ideal. Hoops and large, circular statement earrings help to create the illusion of width and balance out the face’s proportions.

Heart Shaped Face

Characteristics: Wide forehead and cheekbones, narrow pointy chin.

Balance the wider forehead and narrow chin by adding volume at the jawline to even out facial structure. Teardrop earrings and chandeliers that are wider at the bottom work well. For a heart-shaped face, avoid earrings that taper at the bottom, as they can make the chin appear narrower. Opt for styles that create balance, like dangles with rounded edges or hoops.

Whether you want to match earrings to your face shape or you just love to collect all different types, at Moyen & Co, we have an extensive range to suit all tastes and budgets. We invite you to browse with the confidence you're sure to find your next new favorite pair.