Studs: they’re not just the hot men we lust after (or, male horses, as it were). Most of us became acquainted with the delicate ear adornments early in life when we ventured to Claire’s, the doctor’s office, or the local Piercing Pagoda to have your virgin lobes gussied up with a metallic spike. (Or if you’re an employee of Into The Gloss, through an initiation ritual at NY Adorned. I kid, I kid… kind of.) But now that we’re older, we can change our earrings whenever we desire, and with our own incomes to (irresponsibly) spend as we please, perhaps it’s time to add some fresh studly flair.
But before you click “purchase,” a little advice from a man who knows a thing or two about jewelry, J. Colby Smith:
'My advice with earrings—especially if you have multiple holes—is to have a good statement piece and let the other jewelry compliment it. Remember that just because it's 'pretty' doesn't mean it will necessarily look good. Let your jewelry tell a story. Also, find a friend to split the cost of a pair of studs; get over the idea that the right side and the left side have to be mirror images. Each hole is a chance to do something different, plus it's awesome to twin out with your bestie. Take your time, find the right pieces for the right spots, and invest in quality pieces that can be in your mix for years to come. If you keep everything delicate and subtle, it allows you to do more with out looking cluttered,”
And with that, ladies, let's shop:
Brvtvs Large Vectis Earring : Break free from the constraints of the traditional small round stud with this delicate bar, a good edgy beginner earring for those not quite comfortable going full-on alternative on their lobes.
Lynn Ban Black Silver Cross Earrings : I might be somewhat alone in my appreciation for Billy Idol (I shouldn’t be, but, to each his or her own, I suppose), but we can all take a page out of his ‘80s punk book and invest in these dark diamond cross studs.
Erin Considine Arc Studs : Think of these earrings as tiny, minimalist armor—they perfectly follow the curve of your lower ear.
Wendy Nichol Black Diamond Stud Earring : Like Colby says, not all studs need to come in pairs. Maybe one ear wants to live a little more dangerously. If so, a small black diamond and a backside spike can take you from safe to a bit risky.
Grace Lee Petite Turquoise Crown Bezel Earrings : Maybe you’re not into the dark and ominous earring. Maybe you want to keep things feminine, delicate, and ladylike. Is there any better pairing than gold and turquoise? Well, chocolate and peanut butter, but it's is a close second.
—Elizabeth Brockway
