Is this you?

You’re staring into the mirror trying to decide, Are these earrings too big? Can I carry these off without looking odd? A lot of people opt for tiny hoops or safer studs, but miss out on the fun that comes when you know how to wear statement earrings confidently.

I can help. A few months ago, I shared tips on how to wear a dramatic necklace with flair—and people loved it! It’s now the most-visited page on my website. With that theme in mind, I thought I’d add follow-up suggestions about how to wear statement earrings so you feel confident adding color and sparkle to your ears.

Statement earrings come in five basic designs

• Dangles
• Drops
• Chandelier
• Asymmetric pairs
• Hoops

There are a million variations on these basics that add stones, feathers, chains, fabric, and other embellishments for extra drama. When you’re familiar with each design, you can learn a lot about your own style and also try new looks.

A little more detail

Dangles are the statement earrings I like making most. They’re usually eye-catching and colorful, attracting attention with every move you make.

Drops are traditionally a large gemstone or pearl hanging from a vertical piece of metal. Drops can also be soft materials like pompoms or tassels. I love using colorful lampwork beads in my drop earrings.

Chandelier earrings feature layers of rhinestones, like a miniature version of the real thing. They are stunning and shimmer like waves of water.

Asymmetric pairs combine earrings that are each unique, but use similar elements of color or design to make a complimentary pair.

Hoops can be single or multiple and can feature embellishments that hang between the rings. You can wear large, thin hoops if you’re still experimenting with your courage. Hollow, chunky hoops are dramatic, but lightweight.

Tips to wear dramatic earrings with flair

Not just the red carpet. Don’t wait for a special occasion, with a pair of sparkly chandelier earrings, you instantly look dressed up. Earrings make any outfit or style classier. You could be wearing a cozy tee and your favorite jeans. Dressy earrings aren’t just for dressy occasions.

Give statement earrings the spotlight. Unlike dramatic necklaces which need a neutral background and neckline, you can wear larger earrings with complimentary or contrasting-color clothing. The earrings are art, accentuated by the clothing you wear.

Space out the art. In a gallery, all the works have space between them so each one gets noticed. To create balance with art jewelry, pair dramatic earrings with complimentary bracelets or rings instead of necklaces. This makes the pieces stand out and gives the eye a place to rest and really appreciate their beauty.

Hair up or down. You can wear any hairstyle with statement earrings.  If you want them to stand out, wear your hair up, back, or push longer hair behind your shoulders. Lots of models wear their hair down so a glint of metal or color comes through the curls.

Enjoy what you own. Most importantly, remember what sparked your love for your dramatic earrings in the first place. Open your jewelry box today and put on a pair that make you feel happy and playful. That gives you the most confidence of all!

Do you have questions about how to wear statement earrings?