Last updated: August 11, 2026 | Maison de l'Amour
Three main families, three effects. Studs are discreet and can be worn every day without a second thought. Hoops are the timeless classic that frames the face - the larger the hoop, the more pronounced the effect. Drop earrings dress up an outfit and draw the eye, making them ideal for a special occasion. When in doubt: one pair of studs + one pair of hoops already covers 90% of situations.
1. The 3 main families at a glance
| Type | Effect | When to wear them |
|---|---|---|
| Studs | Discreet, luminous | Every day, office, sports |
| Hoops | Defining, modern | Chic everyday wear, outings |
| Drop earrings | Dressy, movement | Evening, wedding, special occasion |
2. Studs: everyday discretion
Worn directly on the earlobe, studs are the easiest to wear. Put them on in the morning and forget about them: they do not catch on anything, do not get in the way when using the phone, and work just as well at the office as they do for sports.
Who are they for? For those who want a discreet pair, or who prefer to let the necklace take center stage. They are also perfect as a second pair if you have multiple piercings.
Discover the IRIS studs, or the ARYA starfish studs - a motif whose symbolism we explain in our article on symbols.
Hoops: the timeless classic that goes with everything.
3. Hoops: the timeless classic
The hoop earring is probably the most versatile earring there is. Its ring shape frames the face and gives it structure, without ever looking too formal.
The size rule:
- Mini hoops (1 to 2 cm): almost as discreet as studs, perfect for everyday wear.
- Medium hoops (2 to 4 cm): the best compromise - visible but never too much.
- Large hoops (4 cm and up): a true statement piece, to wear with a simple outfit.
Our THEA hoops and DANAE hoops add a natural stone to the gold-tone hoop - they are part of our Azure collection.
4. Drop earrings: the ones that dress up an outfit
Drop earrings fall below the earlobe and move with you. They are the type that draws the most attention: they are enough to transform a simple outfit into a dressy one.
Who are they for? For a special occasion (evening out, wedding, dinner), or for those who love to make a statement every day. Tip: if your earrings are long, keep your necklace short - or skip it altogether.
Discover the floral FLORA drop earrings, or the MARIANA earrings with hammered discs.
5. What about your face shape?
The type of earrings matters just as much as the shape of your face: hoops soften angular features, while drop earrings lengthen a round face. We explain everything in our guide round, square or oval face: which earrings to choose.
Good to know: our earrings also come in clip-on ear cuff styles, with no piercing required - find them in the collection filters.
6. The criterion we often overlook: comfort
A beautiful pair that you never wear is pointless. Three points to check:
- The weight: the heavier a drop earring is, the more it pulls on the earlobe. For everyday wear, choose lightweight styles.
- The material: the earlobe is the first place to react. Our earrings are made of hypoallergenic gold-tone stainless steel - no nickel release, so no redness. If your ears are easily irritated, read itchy ears: the solution.
- The clasp: push-back for studs, click closure for hoops - make sure it is secure before a long day.
Frequently asked questions
What type of earrings should you choose when you're just starting out?
A pair of studs and a pair of mini hoops. This duo works for both everyday wear and going out, and goes with everything.
Can you wear hoops every day?
Yes, that's even their main strength. Choose a diameter of 2 to 3 cm: visible enough to be noticed, light enough to forget you're wearing them.
Which earrings should you wear to a wedding?
Drop earrings, which frame the face beautifully in photos. Remember to coordinate them with the rest of your jewelry: see our wedding guest guide.
Can you mix several types in the same ear?
Of course - it's even very trendy to wear them in several piercings. Our tips in the art of layering.
Do your earrings tarnish?
No. Made of gold-tone stainless steel, they are waterproof, hypoallergenic, and won't tarnish, even when worn every day.
Find the pair that reflects your style
Subtle studs, timeless hoops, or statement drop earrings: the choice is yours.