Earring stacking is undoubtedly one of this year’s biggest jewellery trends, with the hashtag #earringstackingaesthetic already reaching 1.3 million TikTok views. However, with so many placements and earring styles, it can often be hard to get right.
To help you nail the look, Pandora’s jewellery expert, Emma Fox, has shared her top tips and inspiration, while piercing expert and director of Isha Body Jewellery, Emma Rance, offers aftercare and maintenance advice when considering multiple piercings.
Noting a surge of demand for stacked piercings, piercing expert Emma Rance, said:
“In my studio, we’ve witnessed a significant interest in the stacked lobe trend. Its popularity is no surprise—it’s incredibly versatile. Embracing the stacked lobe aesthetic not only elevates the visual appeal of earrings but also boosts the confidence of jewellery enthusiasts in showcasing their curated earring collections.”
Pandora’s jewellery expert, Emma Fox, reveals all the essentials for mastering the stacked look.
The best earrings for stacking
From playful hoops to understated studs, the versatility of earring stacking transcends all styles.
“For those new to stacking or who prefer a minimalist approach, starting with simple studs is recommended. They are gentle on fresh piercings and allow for gradual stacking.
Seasoned stackers can experiment with various tones and silhouettes, incorporating colourful birthstones for a playful touch. Layering small hoops or huggies on the lobe can elevate any look, while chunky styles like heart-shaped hoops add a playful flair to evening ensembles.”
Consider proportions
Consider the proportions of your earrings in relation to your ear size and shape. Statement earrings can overpower smaller ears, while tiny studs may not stand out on larger ears. Aim for a balanced look that enhances your features.
The layering technique
“When layering earrings, vary the placement along your earlobe and helix for a dynamic and balanced look. Begin with a focal point, such as a statement hoop or pearl stud, and complement it with smaller earrings to create a cohesive stack.”
Comfort is key
“Keep comfort in mind when stacking earrings, especially if you’ll be wearing them for extended periods. Opt for lightweight materials such as titanium or sterling silver that are gentle on the ears and less likely to cause strain, even when multiple earrings are stacked.
“Additionally, hypoallergenic materials such as stainless steel, sterling silver, gold, and platinum, reduce the risk of allergic reactions, making them suitable for individuals with sensitivities to certain metals.”
Maintenance and aftercare
To help ensure you’re adopting this trend safely, Emma Rance gives her advice on aftercare and maintenance when opting for multiple piercings.
Limit yourself to three healing piercings at a time
If you’re new to ear piercing, Emma suggests:
“Consider the body’s healing capacity when getting a piercing. Unlike cuts or grazes that heal within days or weeks, piercings can take 3-12 months on average, depending on tissue type and location. It’s advisable to limit healing piercings to three at most. Having more can overwhelm the body’s healing process, resulting in redness, swelling, and potential unsightliness.”
Consider timing before acquiring a new piercing
“When getting a new piercing, timing is crucial. If you have a holiday scheduled that involves beach visits or swimming pool activities, it’s advisable to wait until after your return to get pierced. This helps minimise the risk of infection from exposure to shared pool water and open water swimming.”
How to care for your piercings
“Piercing aftercare isn’t just about cleansing products—it also involves making some lifestyle adjustments. It’s best to avoid putting pressure on ear cartilage piercings by refraining from sleeping on them. If needed, using a travel pillow or doughnut pillow can provide comfort.
“Piercings may experience swelling, redness, and a bit of fluid, which dries to form crusts. Daily cleansing with sterile saline solution is essential while avoiding harsh chemicals, creams, or oils that could irritate. For skin piercings, keeping them dry will help with healing.”
