Why were clip-on earrings popular in the 80s?

Author: Elsa Ullrich  |  Last update: Friday, December 12, 2025

In addition to these styles, many jewellery wearers also opted for magnetic and clip-on stud earrings in the event that they didn't have their ears pierced, or simply, because clip-on styles were much easier on the ears due to the sheer size of earrings being worn.

Why were clip-on earrings so popular in the 80s?

It was only during the 1980s and '90s that many women began piercing their ears. Prior to that, many women didn't have piercings and could only wear clip-ons, so makers produced earrings to suit their customer base. On 1stDibs, find a wide range of vintage earrings.

What earrings were popular in the 1980s?

Hoop earrings were huge in the 80s (both figuratively and literally), the bigger the hoop the better. The 70's were also popular for oversized hoops, however, the 80's took it one step further. Think bright colours, chunky materials and eye-catching patterns that went beyond the simplicity of a metal hoop earring.

What's the point of clip-on earrings?

Those who don't want their earlobes to stretch or split: Some heavier earrings can stretch or split earring holes. With clip-on earrings you don't have to worry about any earring hole deformity! Plus, they make heavier earrings more comfortable to wear. Those who suffer from keloid or hypertrophic scarring.

Why do old ladies wear clip-on earrings?

Pierced ears were considered inappropriate till the late 60's. So women didn't have a choice, they had to wear clip ons.

Popular 80s Jewelry Trends

Were clip-on earrings popular in the 90s?

Clip-ons were still worn by many as the bold of the 80s continued into the 90s but became more streamlined, with long drop earrings championed by the celebrities on the red carpet. In the same decade, Princess Diana re-popularised the simple stud for a timeless and classy look which is still popular to this day.

Can you still wear clip on earrings?

Keeping Your Ears Unpierced

Piercing is not for everyone, but that doesn't mean you have to miss out on the style trends as well. You can still rock earrings that are comfortable and stylish, and clip-ons let you do just that!

What are the disadvantages of clip on earrings?

Clip-on earrings, when worn correctly and with proper care, are generally safe and do not cause damage to the earlobe. However, individuals with sensitive earlobes or those who wear heavy clip-on earrings for extended periods may experience discomfort or irritation.

Do celebrities wear clip on earrings?

Cate Blanchette. The Academy Award-winning Australian actress has been known for wearing statement clip-on earrings. More substantial, or heavier, earrings are often clip on as it is thought of to be more comfortable for the wearer as opposed to having a post.

What are Huggies earrings?

Huggie earrings are small hoop earrings that fit snugly around the earlobe. They are designed for comfort and versatility. While they are available in a range of sizes and there are a few bolder options, huggie earrings are mostly delicate and dainty pieces.

What was the biggest fashion trend in the 80s?

Top 10 Fashion Trends from the 80's
  1. BIG HAIR. Perms, perms, and more perms – you could have sailed the Nina, Pinta, and Santa Maria in some people's flows. ...
  2. SPANDEX. Lycra changed the world, and the 80s made sure it knew. ...
  3. RIPPED KNEES. ...
  4. LACEY SHIRTS. ...
  5. LEG WARMERS. ...
  6. HIGH WAISTED JEANS. ...
  7. NEON COLORS. ...
  8. MULLETS.

Are hoop earrings 80s or 90s?

Hoop earrings initially became a trend during the disco era of the 1970s and the glam period of the 1980s, however, they really hit the big time in the 1990s.

What accessories did they wear in the 80s?

From 1980 until 1983, popular women's accessories included thin belts, knee-high boots with thick kitten heels, sneakers, jelly shoes (a new trend at the time), mules, round-toed shoes and boots, jelly bracelets (inspired by Madonna in 1983), shoes with thick heels, small, thin necklaces (with a variety of materials, ...

What kind of earrings were popular in the 80s?

Oversized hoop earrings undeniably stood out as one of the defining jewelry trends of the 1980s. These weren't just any hoops; they were grand, dramatic, and impossible to overlook. Adorning the earlobes of countless women from all walks of life, these earrings often ventured beyond mere size.

Were butterfly clips popular in the 80s?

In the late '80s, smaller versions of the popular accessory were big. This Minnie Driver look was just slightly ahead of the butterfly clip trend (you know you remember those clips from the '90s).

Do vintage clip-on earrings hurt?

While some people may experience discomfort, especially if the earrings are too tight or worn for extended periods, others find them perfectly comfortable. The key is to choose well-designed clip-on earrings that distribute pressure evenly across the earlobe.

Did Marilyn Monroe wear clip-on earrings?

Actresses such as Audrey Hepburn and Marilyn Monroe wore clip-on earrings in scenes with high visual and stylistic impact, which generated interest and curiosity around these accessories. This helped popularize them and spark the interest of people outside the film industry.

What does clip-on earring means?

Clip-on earrings are a great alternative for those who don't have their ears pierced but still want to make a bold fashion statement by wearing their favorite pair of unique earrings. These non-pierced earrings are fastened to your earlobe with a clip made of metal or plastic.

Who wears earring in right ear?

Some years back, wearing a single earring or stud in the right ear was affiliated with homosexuality, but that has been disputed over time. Today, it's prevalent for men to wear earrings in one ear or both and the left ear or right ear alone, without it being considered a sexual signal.

Does anyone wear clip-on earrings anymore?

This is one style trend we'll never let die! If you're tempted to believe that clip-on earrings have gone the way of rotary phones and gossip benches, think again: They're as popular as ever.

What kind of earrings to avoid?

In particular, you should avoid earrings made from nickel, the leading earlobe irritant. Furthermore, you should avoid earrings made of other alloys like cobalt and copper. Safe earrings are often labeled as hypoallergenic or biocompatible. The two types are made from earring metals for sensitive ears.

Why are most vintage earrings clip-ons?

Earrings now re-emerged as fashionable accessories, but Victorians believed piercing the flesh was uncivilized. As the 20th century began, a solution was engineered with the invention of clip-on earrings. This new design allowed people to decorate their ears without the “disgrace” of piercing holes in their ear lobes.

What is the downside of clip-on earrings?

A plastic surgeon explained that the tissue inside the lobe will eventually get softer due to the constant pressure from a clip-on and lose its structure and elasticity. If you swap between clip-ons and pierced earrings the tissue within the lobes is a lot softer and more liable to tear.

When did clip-on earrings become popular?

Clip-on earrings revolutionized jewelry accessibility when they emerged in the 1920s. Their popularity soared during World War II, as women entering the workforce sought practical yet elegant adornments. These versatile pieces became a cornerstone of vintage jewellery design.

When should you not wear earrings?

It can be bad to wear earrings 24/7. It is advisable to take your favourite earrings off from time to time to let your ears “breathe”. The reason behind this is that your earrings could trap dirt and bacteria (or shampoo) if you leave them on 24/7, which can lead to infections.

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