Clip On Earrings

How clip on earrings work

A clip earring has two parts: the visible front, and a small clip that folds behind the lobe and presses lightly against it. The hold comes from that gentle pressure, not from a post, which is why clips suit unpierced ears, healing piercings or lobes that no longer tolerate posts well. The shape of the front changes how the pressure is spread. On our teardrop clip-on earrings, a flat round disc rests against the front of the lobe and spreads the hold over a wider surface. On the clip on hoop earrings, a discreet C-shaped clip sits behind the lobe while the front shows a full curve, so the hoop looks just like a pierced one. Our guide to the types of earrings compares clips with every other kind of fastening.

Comfort and hold: placing your clips well

Comfort depends mostly on placement. Position the clip on the soft, fleshy part of the lobe, a little higher or lower until it feels right, then close it slowly rather than snapping it shut. If you feel pressure after a few hours, move it slightly lower or take a short break. Lighter pairs are the most comfortable for long days: the teardrop dangle clip on earrings, about 9 × 31 mm, are an easy choice for the office. Larger drops and bold hoops are perfect for an evening or a wedding, when you wear them for a few hours. A clip that holds firmly without pinching is the goal, so start gently.

Choosing your clip-on style

Hoops are the most versatile clip on earrings: our clip-on hoops come in four shapes, wide, twisted, crisscross or slim, from about 2 to 4 cm. For a softer, more classic look, the pearl clip on earrings offer six designs, from a discreet square pearl to a long teardrop that moves as you walk, a popular choice for brides and guests with unpierced ears. Polished teardrops bring a modern, graphic line: the open teardrop at about 58 mm frames the face, while the smaller dangle drop stays understated. Clips also work on pierced ears, leaving your piercings free for studs.

Materials and care

Our clip-ons are made either of stainless steel with an 18k gold plating or a silver finish, or of copper alloy with a gold-tone or silver-tone finish; the exact material is listed on each product page. Put them on after perfume, hairspray and makeup, and remove them before showering, sport or sleeping. Wipe them with a soft, dry cloth after wear and store each pair closed, on its own, so the clips keep their shape. For hoops, studs and ear cuffs with posts, browse our full earrings collection.