I got my ears pierced at 12 years-old, and over the following decade, I exclusively wore a pair of identical studs that my grandmother gave me to celebrate my Entrance Into Womanhood. Seven additional piercings later (sorry, Mom), I've opted out of the whole symmetry thing and begun to emulate the likes of Billy Idol, Fairuza Balk, Barry Bonds, and our very own Emily Weiss by going against the established grain and welcoming the a symmetrical ear dangle into my daily life. Nine, after all, is an odd number. Here are my current favorite singular stunners and pairs with which to mix and match...
Givenchy Small Double Cone Shark Earring in Faux Turquoise : Perhaps one of the first luxury brands to embrace the oversized, single-earring trend, this smaller, more demure take on their classic shark earring is perfect for those who have yet to undergo the J.Colby Smith treatment—i.e. no actual holes necessary. The faux turquoise and diamond-encrusted double cone latches onto your lobe (or perhaps your conch?) with magnets.
Wendy Nichol Silver Large Pyramid Stud Earring : Add a little danger to your musical, twirly-ballerina jewelry box with this sharp, double-sided single. I’ve had mine stuck through my left ear since I bought it two years ago. But word to the wise: use caution when wearing hats, towel-drying your hair, and giving hugs.
Genevieve Jones Classic Harvest Safety Pin Earrings : Instead of going full high-school punk and poking actual office supplies through your skin, why not elevate the look with rose gold?
Loren Stewart Gold Single Cupid Arrow Earring : This delicate chain is the ideal way to dip your toe into the avant-garde pool while still keeping things approachable and feminine. Bonus points for being a good option for Hunger Games super fans!
Jennifer Fisher Brass Large Talon Sword Earrings : Slightly severe, but sexy and streamlined, these earrings are simple enough to help transition even the most skeptical among us into the art of asymmetrical adornment.
—Elizabeth Brockway
