Dangle earrings range from daytime and work-appropriate earrings to glitzy pieces that would be at home on the red carpet. Buying a good pair of dangle earrings means considering when you plan to wear them, looking at the type of dangle earring, considering the metals used, and even the weight of the earring.
Consider the Occasion
One of the most important things to consider for dangle earrings is the occasion on which you intend to wear them. Dangle earrings go great with jeans and a T-shirt, a little black dress, a wedding gown, and anything in between. The trick is matching the formality of the earrings to the occasion.
Elaborate chandelier earrings are best for formal occasions, and it may be better to avoid dangle earrings at all while babysitting. Avoid large or overly elaborate dangle earrings for a job interview. Studs are a conservative choice, but small, simple teardrops or other dangle earrings may be appropriate. If you are giving a gift, choosing birthstone earrings is always a safe option.
Dangle Earrings Design
Dangle earrings often break further by the way they hang from the ear. Drop earrings typically are simply a bar that hangs down with a pearl, crystal, or gemstone at the end. Chandelier earrings tend to resemble their namesake, with plenty of glitz and glam. Some may even brush the wearer's shoulders. Other dangle earrings may have a charm or bead, and sometimes multiple beads.
Teardrop earrings also look like their namesake, with a narrow tip that flares out in a rounded shape. Beyond the occasion, though, choosing the right design is a matter of face shape. Some types of earrings flatter certain face shapes better than others do.
Face Shape |
Best Earring Choice |
| Oval | Virtually any type of earring |
| Round | Long earrings |
| Heart | Teardrop shaped earrings |
| Square | Rounded or oval shaped earrings |
The goal is to choose earrings that contrast with the natural shape of the face. The flare of teardrop earrings counteracts the pointed chin in a heart-shaped face, for example. Round and oval earrings add some softness to the hard edges of a square face, and long earrings make a round face seem longer. An oval face is ideal, so most every type of earring should flatter.
Earrings Hook Materials
Pay attention to the material used for the earring hooks. Beyond aesthetic reasons, the metal used is important because many low-grade earring hooks and posts may contain nickel, which can irritate sensitive ears. There are several options to consider to avoid this problem, however:
- Surgical steel
- Titanium
- Sterling silver
- 14K gold
Note that sterling silver, which is 92.5 percent silver mixed with another metal, can contain nickel, as can 14k gold. Medical-grade titanium is the highest quality titanium available.
Looking for earrings labeled as "hypoallergenic" means they contain very low amounts or no nickel. Some earrings may indicate "nickel-free" as well.


