The Best Ear Cuff

Buying Guide

Ear piercing is a rite of passage for many families. And once the ears are pierced, it’s just a matter of keeping an earring in each hole for a while until the ears are completely healed. Once your piercing is permanent, you’ll need to keep jewelry in it regularly to prevent it from shrinking.

But some choose to steer clear of piercing altogether. They might be concerned about complications, or they might have personal conditions or preferences that keep them from making that commitment. Not having piercings, though, can cause FOMO as everyone else seems to have so much fun matching earrings to outfits.

Clip-on earrings are always an option, but they’ve historically been uncomfortable. They pinch the ear and slip around throughout the day. Ear cuffs can be a better choice. These jewelry pieces latch onto the outer edge of your ear, typically hooking around the cartilage.

Ear cuffs can be worn by those with pierced ears as well. You can even combine jewelry pieces to create a look that stands out. If you plan to stack ear cuffs or combine them with earrings, keep that in mind as you’re buying.

Ear cuffs are typically sold in sets. If you choose a set with multiple finishes and designs, you’ll be able to change up your look from day to day. Cuffs with a more neutral profile are more versatile, though, ensuring they will match all the different outfits you wear.

As with earrings, you’ll want to look at the materials used to make your earrings. Nickel allergies can be an issue, and nickel can be mixed in with hypoallergenic metals, so it’s important to look specifically for nickel-free ear cuffs if you have sensitivities. You’ll also likely find that ear cuffs made from materials like high-grade stainless steel will hold up under the rigors of regular wear. Make sure you’re getting a high-grade metal if you want your jewelry to last.

• Ear cuffs come in a variety of color and style options, including silver, gold and even black. Consider your wardrobe to determine what will best match your typical style. Also, keep in mind what kind of metal would match the other jewelry you wear.
• Stainless steel is a popular option for jewelry. It usually holds up well against rust and corrosion, making it great for something you’ll be wearing every day. Still, it’s best to remove your ear cuff before you shower or swim.
• Some cuffs come in a slimmer, more flexible form that is adjustable for comfort. The trade-off is that these versions might not be as durable as thicker ear cuffs on the market.
• If you’re feeling discomfort after attaching an ear cuff, it could be that it’s at the wrong angle. Only the front edge should touch the inner part of your ear. The rest of the cuff should wrap around the edge. You can find step-by-step guides and videos online that show how to properly place an ear cuff.
• Positioning an ear cuff also depends on your personal preferences. Some prefer placing it at the midway point of your ear, while others like it better higher or lower. You may even want multiple ear cuffs along the outer rim of your ear. Be creative!