Huggie hoops and studs are the two most-worn everyday earrings, and for good reason. They are small, comfortable and go with everything. But which one is right for you? Here is a simple guide.
What are huggie hoops?
Huggie hoops are small, chunky-ish hoops that “hug” the earlobe closely. Most have a hinged clasp that clicks shut, so there is no separate back to lose. They usually measure 8 to 14 mm across.
What are stud earrings?
Studs sit on the front of the earlobe, held in place with a post and a butterfly back. They range from tiny dots and stones to little hearts, stars and butterflies.
Huggie hoops vs studs at a glance
| Huggie Hoops | Studs | |
|---|---|---|
| Look | Modern, polished, a little edgy | Classic, clean, delicate |
| Comfort | Very comfortable, no backs to poke | Comfortable, backs can press when lying down |
| Security | Click-shut clasp, hard to lose | Backs can slip off |
| Sleeping in them | Usually comfortable | Can poke |
| Best for | Everyday, stacking, second piercings | Work, school, minimalist style |
| Statement level | Medium | Low |
Choose huggie hoops if you…
- Want a modern look that frames your face
- Hate losing earring backs
- Like to stack earrings in multiple piercings
- Want to leave your earrings in all day
Choose studs if you…
- Love a classic, minimalist style
- Need something simple for school or a conservative office
- Have a new or second piercing (once healed)
- Want something tiny and sweet, like a butterfly or a heart
Which suits your face shape?
- Round face: small huggies or long-ish dangles add definition
- Oval face: anything works, lucky you
- Square face: round huggies soften angles
- Heart-shaped face: small studs keep the focus balanced
Honestly, dainty earrings suit almost every face. Choose what you love.
Why not both? Try an ear stack
The easiest ear stack: huggie hoops in your first piercing plus a tiny stud in your second. Keep it all silver for a clean, elegant look.
Caring for your earrings
- Clean posts and clasps regularly with mild soap and water
- Take them off before swimming and showering (here is why)
- Store them in a small zip bag to slow tarnish
- If you have sensitive ears, choose real 925 sterling silver. Read more about earrings for sensitive ears
Frequently asked questions
Are huggie hoops comfortable to sleep in?
Yes. Most people find small huggie hoops more comfortable to sleep in than studs, because there is no back to press into your neck.
What size huggie hoop should I get?
8 to 10 mm sits snugly on most lobes. 12 to 14 mm gives a little more space and a more visible hoop.
Are huggies good for second piercings?
Yes, once healed. A small huggie in your second hole looks lovely with a stud or bigger hoop in the first.
Do huggie hoops fit all ears?
Most standard lobes fit 8 to 12 mm huggies. If your piercing sits low on the lobe, choose a slightly larger size.
Shop huggies and studs
Browse our dainty sterling silver earrings, including huggie hoops, studs and sweet dangles, all real 925 silver and gift-boxed.
