What are cuffs - the history of unusual earrings, how to choose and where to wear (93 photos)

For many years, jewelers were content with simple definitions of different types of earrings.
The usual stud earrings, hoop earrings or drop earrings inspired them to create beauty within the chosen genre. For unpierced ears, a variety of clips were quite enough. But in recent years there have been real fireworks. Unusual and original earrings rule the roost, appearing in more and more new versions.

Even the cuffs that recently came from the world of subcultures are changing, becoming more and more refined. Double earrings, which, on the contrary, came from the “higher spheres” - the fashion house of Dior, continue to rapidly conquer the world. Jewelry asymmetry has grown and matured to completely incongruous sets and then to the concept of mono-earrings. And - completely new types of ear jewelry appear, the names of which sound completely unusual: climbers and jackets.

We invite you to take a closer look at the most trendy varieties of earrings, which we have grouped by name especially for you. After all, unlike extreme options like several earrings in one ear, our new items do not require any additional effort or ear piercings. Simply - a little courage to be the first, as well as perseverance to find the option you like. By the way, we hope that jewelers will react to the new trend as soon as possible, and all these jewelry can be easily purchased from us.

Cuffs - what kind of earrings?

Cuff is an ear accessory.
Decorates not only the lobe, but also other parts of the auricle. Particularly large products cover the hair, face, neck, and temple. One of the key features of these earrings is that they can be worn without having a piercing (there are exceptions). Clips have a similar quality, but the latter fit rather flimsily and pull on the ear. Due to the original fixing element, cuffs are free from such disadvantages. In addition, they are produced not in pairs, but in 1 piece. Moreover, the product is intended to be worn on a specific ear: either the left or the right.

A few words about their appearance...

Cuffs are not innovative decoration.
The earrings were found in burials that date back to 2300 BC. e. There is also evidence that they were worn in Ancient Greece and Rome. They were also in demand among the peoples who inhabited the territory of Russia before the unification of Rus'. In the modern world, fashion for them has gone out and then returned. Cuffs were among the trends in the following periods:

• 50s (models with a bow behind the ear are in demand);
• 1960-70s (bohemians wore cuffs with tassels and large stones);
• 80s (the item is classified as unisex, men are starting to wear it too).

In the 2000s, cuffs returned to high fashion, but the emphasis shifted from the abundance of stones and large decorative elements to a complex composition . Decoration began to be made from wire, which, due to its physical properties, easily takes and maintains an unusual shape.

What materials are they made from?

Cuffs in this regard are not much different from other types of earrings. They are made from precious and common metals. Products with gold, silver, and platinum plating are also produced. There is costume jewelry. Moreover, sometimes it looks much more interesting than jewelry . Designers create stunning little things from glass, wire and plastic, depicting flowering branches, dragons and even entire plot compositions.

Important! Ear cuffs with galvanic coating have high hypoallergenic properties. This characteristic is also inherent in gold products of high standard (that is, with a minimum amount of impurities). However, we must remember that an inadequate reaction can occur to anything. Therefore, no class of ear jewelry is considered 100% safe.

Product material

Cuff earrings can be made of any metal. Ideally they will help to emphasize the luxury of jewelry, status, and brightness of the owner of a cuff made of gold, silver or platinum. Due to their composition, such jewelry can be stored for many years, cannot be changed, and does not cause allergies to alloys made from costume jewelry.

Types of cuffs

The key difference is the type of locking element. There are 4 types of earrings:

• with cuffs;
• arcuate;
• threading into the ear;
• cuffs-hairpins.

The first type can be worn without a piercing. The earring is equipped with a double-sided fixing element. He covers his ear and prevents the decoration from falling off. The product is attached to the rim of the sink, usually to its middle or top. The advantages of this type: it does not fall off, regardless of its size and weight .
Therefore, the most massive jewelry usually belongs to this category. The arched ones sit on the rim of the auricle - on the whole or only on 1 part of it. Quite often, earrings are held in place not so much by the fixing element, which some models do not provide at all, but by the shape itself.

This mounting method has its pros and cons. The positive aspects include the appearance. Due to the lack of fasteners or an arch hidden behind the ear, the item looks unusual and aesthetically pleasing. On the other hand, such a “landing” cannot be called extremely reliable . But this characteristic is fully inherent in the 3rd type of cuffs - earrings that go into the ear.

They can be designed for 1 hole or several. Additionally, sometimes there is a cuff. It is hooked to the top point of the auricle. Between the fixing points there is a chain, openwork thread or bow. Typically, cuff jewelry of this type looks neat. They are small, but consist of many intertwining or hanging elements.

Cuffs-hairpins can have any type of retainer from those listed above. Their peculiarity is not in the latch, but in the presence of an additional element that extends beyond the auricle and is attached to the hair.

There is also a division by style, size, and materials. So, along with jewelry that wraps around the entire ear, very small accessories are offered. They can look like a series of rings, a wave several centimeters long, or imitate a miniature leaf of a plant.

Interesting models

The ear cuffs themselves add originality to the look. And if they are done unusually, they immediately become a trend.

Famous jewelry brands create unique jewelry for true fashionistas:

1. Astrological cuffs from Louis Vuitton. Each zodiac sign is included in. The original LV & ME series from the Fortune Earrings collection are made of thin gold wire. Of all the models, the most original is the sign of Aquarius, which consists of flowing chains descending from the curl of the cuff. This is how streams of water were depicted.
2. Betsey Johnson created jewelry in the form of kisses, animals and flowers, which emphasize natural femininity and add lightness to the image. Also, these models are chosen by extravagant women who are not afraid to attract attention.
3. Minimalism from Dior. Jewelry in the form of 2 balls, made of gold plated, crystals and semi-precious stones, looks elegant and rich.

4. Wedding collection from Oscar De La Renta. They released earrings that decorate the entire ear in the form of branches, studded with stones of various colors and stars. Each cuff comes complete with a stud earring for the other ear.
5. Givenchy presented huge cafes decorated with rhinestones. Such massive jewelry resembles the size of compact discs. Thanks to the lightness of these jewelry, the earlobe does not pull back.
6. Lanvin presented a collection of cuffs for men, made in a simple style, secured with a clip on a chain.
7. Balenciaga created huge earrings in the form of snowflakes, large pearls and stars, attached behind the ear.
8. Yoko London - this brand creates handmade earrings in the shape of pearls. Each piece of jewelry is created by hand, which is why the work can take more than a year.
9. Elise Dray - they create designer cuffs from all shades of gold with various additions in the form of diamonds, sapphires and other precious stones. The models are easy to read mystical, historical and modern models.

How to put on cuffs correctly? How to secure it with your own hands?

First, you need to understand which ear the jewelry is intended for and understand the type of attachment. The easiest option to wear is the one with a stud. Such an earring is first threaded into the hole, then fixed with a “cork”, and then the cuff is adjusted or the procedure is repeated with 2 and subsequent studs.

Important! When you first resort to massive ear cuffs, listen to your body and do not ignore the unpleasant sensations. Due to the lack of habit, the heaviness and feeling of constriction will increase over time, so for the first time you should limit yourself to 3-4 hours of use . With the second, the discomfort will become less pronounced. Then it will go away completely, your ears will get used to it.

Cuffs with a clip are put on a little differently. Instructions for their use:

• open the latch;
• attach the accessory to your ear;
• determine the location of fixation;
• press the clamp flaps together with your fingers;
• If you feel pressure on your ear, stop squeezing the latch;
• make sure that the decoration does not fly off and sits neatly.

Ear cuffs can be strung on the ear or strung on it and have an arch on the back . In the first case, you will simply need to insert the auricle into the jewelry; in the second, attach or insert it, and then adjust the back bow so that it begins to cover the base of the auricle. This will not be difficult, since the arches are made of elastic material.

Important! When choosing cuffs for a headdress, consider the type of fastening. If you choose something that moves easily, it will get lost when you adjust or remove the hat. The same can be said about wearing earrings and headphones at the same time.

Mismatched or mono earrings

And finally, the last trend on our list. As it turned out, the phrase “pair of earrings” no longer means exactly the same pieces. On the contrary, the obvious difference between two earrings in length and shape, as well as color, is quite the norm for modern designers. The extreme degree of “unpairedness” is the absence of a pair at all, called “monosering”. Most often, unpaired earrings can be worn both together and separately. What's not a great opportunity for self-expression?

Source: jckonline.com Photo: jckonline.com, etsy.com, vaganova.pro, permyakova.net

Where to buy earrings

Where to buy designer jewelry - review of sites | Seven brands of premium jewelry presented in Russia | JEWELIRUMA catalog - an updated selection of interesting jewelry brands with search filters | The main exhibitions and sales of jewelry and designer costume jewelry | The most notable jewelry trends in recent years

How to choose a decoration that suits? | Jewelry earrings | Types of earrings | How to choose and wear earrings? | What do earrings mean in men's ears? | Earrings in minimalist style | High-tech jewelry with electronic filling

Which style of earrings?

The image in an ethnic mood will be complemented by elven ears and decorations depicting wings or intertwined shoots of plants. In general , all products imbued with plant-animal themes will come in handy .
Moreover, you should not make much of a distinction between real-life and mythical, fairy-tale creatures or flowers. Each of them will be appropriate within the ethno-style. A wide selection of cuffs is also provided for lovers of the romantic style. Shimmering and shimmering, skillfully made fine jewelry will highlight femininity and make the hostess noticeable, but at the same time will not pretend to be classic luxury and solidity. Their beauty is in their lightness and play of light.

It is worth looking at a pair of ear cuffs for those who love gothic notes . Especially for this category of girls, products are produced with the faces of wild animals and the bodies of dark mystical creatures. This thing looks very noir and atmospheric. You can also choose your own accessory for a daring, informal, underground look. Same as for office.

It just seems that earrings of this type look too provocative. In fact, the product line is full of options for business girls and students who are forced to comply with a dress code. One has only to turn to products with classic semi-precious stones or inserts, or to small, neat options.

Important! Cuffs in some countries are a typical bride's decoration. Let yourself look stunning on the most important day of your life by wearing these earrings to your wedding ceremony.

There are also everyday options from the street fashion category. They look interesting, but do not amaze with the abundance of decor or complex shape. Their beauty is in their simplicity.

Varieties

The main method in the classic version is earlobe piercing. It is used by both women and men. This technique is ideal even for little ones, and for boys there is a piercing in one ear. Often a double or triple puncture is performed, but no more due to cartilage interference.

The current trend is using a pistol. The technique has proven positive due to its speed and lack of pain. The products look great:

• Carnations.
• Hoops.
• Labrets.

The method also gained wide popularity among the stronger sex. The selection of men's earrings is truly huge.

What hairstyles go with them?

First, you should try moving your hair to the other side.
Let the ear on which the earring is worn be completely open. Another way: lift your hair up. Both a bunch and a shell will do. Well, for those who prefer an informal or free style of clothing, you don’t have to worry too much and resort to a ponytail. Loose hair is also acceptable, but only if the hair is ironed first. A voluminous hairstyle is of no use when it comes to cuffs .

Gift option

If you want to please your friend, buy small cuffs. They do not require punctures; they are elegantly attached to the middle of the ear without protruding it. A small decoration will not confuse anyone either at work or at school.

Even if the person to whom this gift is intended is allergic to other metals, there will be no problems with the small cuff, because it does not touch the sensitive skin on the piercing.

conclusions

. Cuffs are a unique piece of jewelry that will make you look bright and cute at the same time. They are the perfect addition to any outfit. Knowing how to wear these earrings will always amaze the people around you.

How to choose cuff earrings?

The surest way is to take into account your face shape . Using this method, it is easiest to buy the right jewelry for women with a symmetrical oval face. They do not need to be afraid of visual expansion or lengthening, so you can use any cuffs.

Recommendations for those with other appearances:

• the triangular shape requires short accessories, elongated ones will not work;
• a round face will be transformed by dangling and elongated earrings;
• a heart-shaped face will become even more beautiful from arched decorations and options with elongated lines;
• the boundaries of a square face will be softened by rounded earrings and stones, streamlined shapes;
• the diamond-shaped face asks for curves, falling lines.

Other guidelines: neck length (if it’s short, don’t use cuffs hanging down), color type of appearance. Girls of summer type should take a closer look at the following options:

1. smoky, blue, pink stones;
2. metal, silver, platinum jewelry;
3. decor in cold blue, lemon, lilac, raspberry, white shades.

Autumn loves turquoise, mustard, brown, green, and golden colors. Recommended metals: bronze, red and yellow gold, brass. Winter loves everything rich and bright, but deep. You can also turn to cold, dark tones. Such girls need to buy ear cuffs inlaid with green, black, burgundy or crystal white stones or rhinestones.

But earrings made of dark metal or decor are not suitable for ladies of the spring type. For them, there is nothing better than floral and delicate motifs in jewelry. Fine lines and weaving combined with turquoise, light green, orange-red and pearlescent elements are what you should choose.

Well, don’t forget that not every ear shape requires wearing large earrings . If cuffs increase the size of the ears due to their massiveness, width or abundance of decoration, then they should not be worn by women with large or forward ears. In this case, the best solution would be a neat small decoration or one connected by a thin isthmus.

Piercing in ancient times

What do we know about piercing?

Until recently, piercing could only be associated with informal cultures. Although this approach in itself is a huge mistake of our time. The fact is that various types of piercings as tattoos were characteristic of many ancient cultures. A variety of jewelry in punctures on the body was worn in Ancient Egypt and Greece. Moreover, everything was not limited to a simple puncture in the earlobe, but reached the most sophisticated and difficult types of piercing. Archaeologists have provided us with plenty of evidence of the existence of piercings in those ancient times. Some captives had special rituals associated with such punctures, and in general this art has always deserved special attention, since it is extremely difficult to perform a puncture correctly without causing infection and preventing numerous complications of such an intervention.

The most common were ear piercings in a variety of modifications. Lip and tongue piercing came to us from African and American tribal cultures. From India or the Middle East (according to various sources) this type of piercing came to us, such as nose piercing. There is no reliable information about navel piercing and intimate piercing. Or rather, scientists simply cannot agree on a common opinion. Some believe that after the rapid development of traditional piercing in ancient tribes, this art began to decline and with the development of society, everyone gradually forgot about it except for the tribes, which for centuries did not change their traditions. And around the Middle Ages, the aristocracy and high society completely rejected any manifestations of this culture. And only in the 70s they finally started talking about piercing in Europe and America. So, one category of scientists attributes the appearance of navel piercing and intimate piercing to this very moment. But the other side categorically disagrees with them. And, by the way, they provide very significant evidence in the form of cultural heritage. Namely, Ancient Egyptian sculptures, where women were depicted with jewelry in their navel. Moreover, this type of piercing was characteristic of the aristocracy and spoke only of a high position in society. And intimate piercing appeared long before the 20th century. But arguing about historical data is quite difficult and it is better to leave this matter to historians. Only one thing is known for certain: after its ancient stage, piercing actually experienced some decline, and then was revived again. Moreover, until today, this art is continuously developing, offering us unimaginable jewelry and incredible piercing options.

Gradually, piercing ceased to be a sign of belonging to various subcultures and took its place of honor in the fashion industry. Many ideological rockers, for example, sadly mention this fact. Because from that moment on, piercing ceased to carry its true meaning, that is, belonging to a specific subculture, a rebellion against the laws of society, a protest, but became simply a beautiful decoration and a way of self-expression.

Where can you wear ear cuffs?

Thin compact earrings are a universal option that will be appropriate in any setting .
Cuffs with chains, on the contrary, cannot be called stylistically uncolored. They look casual and even daring, which is why, with some exceptions, they have no place at an official event or in a business environment. Massive products, in turn, can be safely worn to a club, or to a celebration - it depends on the form and content of the decoration. Where cuffs are definitely prohibited from entering are places of active recreation and swimming pools . The jewelry will be easy to lose even in nature, so you should think twice before wearing earrings without studs on a picnic.

Top most expensive fabrics in the world

Why do gold earrings turn your ears black?

Tips for storage and care

Cuffs look very elegant and original: they suit almost all representatives of the fair sex. But you need to take into account that these earrings need especially careful handling. Do not forcefully remove jewelry from yourself - they are easily deformed. They should always be removed at night or before training.

For cleaning, it is better to use a soap solution and minimize physical effort in principle. The nuances of care depend on the metals and stones used to create the jewelry.

Under no circumstances should you store cuffs in a common box mixed with other jewelry. Get a special tablet, divided into cells, or a tree hanger for decorations. Wear your favorite cuffs for a long time and with pleasure!

Gold earrings with cubic zirconia and garnets (go to the SUNLIGHT catalogue) 02/16/21

Peculiarities

Cuffs look very beautiful and unusual. The secret of their popularity lies in several features:

You don't need to have your ears pierced to wear earrings. This does not apply to those models for which you still have to pierce your ears to attach them.

Cuff leaves

Even a child can attach the product.

Cuffs worn

The cuffs do not fall off while wearing.

Earrings can be used to decorate your ears or hair.

These decorations can be of any shape. Unlike regular earrings, large cuffs will not cause discomfort. The load is evenly distributed throughout the ear.

Piercing fashion

And, of course, fashion moved inexorably forward. No one was going to settle on banal clip rings or studded earrings, so they had to come up with something completely new and unusual. And the very fact of the piercing, of course, confused many who wanted to get a beautiful piercing. It is painful and sometimes dangerous to your health. With real piercings, it is rarely possible to change the jewelry every day, and wearing a bulky jewelry, for example, on a holiday is simply impossible. This is exactly why piercing without a puncture was invented.

This type of piercing makes it possible to show off a chic piece of jewelry in any desired part of the body and at the same time get rid of it at any time without consequences. In addition, all this without pain and a long healing period for the puncture. This kind of piercing is called a fake piercing and its essence is that the attachment of the jewelry itself looks like a ring with an element that is not clamped. It is with the help of this hole that the piercing is held in the desired place, be it cartilage or earlobe, navel, wing of the nose, etc. At first, decoys were limited to ordinary rings of different colors. This form is universal, it can be fixed in the form of any puncture.