If you've ever bought hoop earrings online and found they were huggies that were much smaller than you expected, then you already know that size matters. This guide covers how to measure hoop earrings size properly and recommends the best accuracy tools to find the perfect hoop size for you. It also offers suggestions for hoop earrings that suit various face shapes and occasions to create your own signature style.
Why You Should Measure Hoop Earring Sizes?
Whether you prefer subtle elegance or bold statement earrings, knowing the different hoop earring sizes allows you to pick the exact size you want and dramatically change your personal style. You can also avoid the disappointment and time loss of returns and refunds when shopping online.
- Large hoop earrings make a bold fashion statement and make you stand out.
- Medium hoop earrings are the perfect pair for everyday wear, enhancing the sophistication of your outfit while being suitable for any occasion.
- Small and mini hoops, on the other hand, embody chic minimalism and can add a highlight.
So, choose the right size of hoop earrings that will accentuate your features and be comfortable to wear.
How to Measure Hoop Earrings?
After understanding why you need to measure your hoop earring size, how do you go about measuring for size? When you are choosing the right pair of hoop earrings, they need to be in proportion to your ears to look balanced and harmonious.
Check out these earring measurements below for diameter, circumference, and thickness to make sure you're happy with your choice!
Measuring Hoop Earrings Diameter
The hoop diameter is the straight line distance from one edge of the hoop through the center to the other edge, and it's the primary measurement used to determine the hoop size. Please note that the inner diameter is measured from the inner edge, or the total diameter is measured from the outer edge.
Diameter sizes are usually measured in millimeters (mm). If you are using inches, multiply the measurement by 25.4 to convert to millimeters. Earrings range from huggies (e.g., 10-20 mm), which fit snugly in the earlobe, to large hoops (over 50 mm), which make a bold statement.
Measuring Hoop Earrings Circumference
Circumference is the distance around the entire earring. To measure the circumference of hoops, wrap a piece of string around their outer edge and then measure the length of the string.
An easier way to measure is to use a soft measuring tape. Wrap it around the outer edge of the hoops to get the circumference directly.
Measuring Hoop Earrings Thickness
The thickness of a hoop earring is the width of the hoop band. Use a ruler or tape to measure the width of the band, which is usually the thickest part of it. Hoop wires vary in thickness, which affects the overall look, weight, and comfort of the earring.
Thin hoops (1-2 mm) are delicate and simple. Medium thickness (3-4 mm) is classic and timeless. Thick hoops (5+ mm) are bold and stylish. Using calipers or comparing them to common items can help you visualize the different ring thicknesses. For example, a paper clip is about 1 mm thick, while a pencil is about 6 mm thick.
For everyday wear, we recommend thin hoops and medium thicknesses for comfort. Thicker earrings make a statement, but are relatively less everyday. Please consider your personal style and comfort level when choosing your thickness.
Hoop Earrings Size Chart
After introducing how to measure hoop earrings and considering that one of the next biggest challenges you may face is converting millimeters (an industry standard for jewelry) to inches, we've drawn up this sizing chart in both millimeters and inches to make the conversion easier.
We have also provided comparables for your reference. Use this quick conversion chart below to get a better idea of hoop earring sizes.
|
Inches |
Millimeters |
Comparable Objects |
|---|---|---|
|
3/8 inch |
10 mm |
Head of a thumbtack |
|
1/2 inch |
15 mm |
Dime |
|
3/4 inch |
20 mm |
Penny |
|
1 inch |
25 mm |
Quarter |
|
1 and 1/4 inches |
30 mm |
Half Dollar |
|
1 and 1/2 inches |
40 mm |
Ping Pong Ball |
|
2 inches |
50 mm |
Golf Ball |
|
2 and 1/3 inches |
60 mm |
Billiard Ball |
|
2 and 3/4 inches |
70 mm |
Baseball |
Common Hoop Earrings Sizes
To find the right size, you need to look at the diameter. Here are some common hoop earring diameters in the following ranges:
- 9-15 mm: smallest size, fits snugly in the earlobe
- 20-25 mm: small to medium, earrings barely hang over the ear
- 30-40 mm: average to medium size for everyday wear; these earrings will visibly hang from the ear
- 45-50 mm: medium to large earrings, depending on the wearer
- 60 mm and up-large hoop earrings that hang towards the collarbone, best for making a statement
Choose the Right Size of Hoop Earrings
Now you have learned about the various measurements for earring sizes. Next, we will explore the different sizes of earrings specifically, and with our unique advice, you will easily find the perfect fit. Not only will they complement your style, but they will also enhance your overall look.
Small Hoop Earrings
When choosing small hoop earrings, consider the subtle changes they bring to your overall look. Small hoops are the perfect size for those who prefer an understated, sophisticated look.
Suitable for both casual outfits and formal wear, small hoop earrings are incredibly versatile. You can wear them with jeans and a t-shirt for a chic everyday look or with a classic black dress for an elegant formal look for an evening event.
For a casual look, small hoop earrings can be paired with all your casual everyday outfits. For a formal occasion, choose classic hoops that won't overpower your outfit.
In addition, because of their smaller diameter, small hoops tend to hang closer to the earlobe, making them perfect for creating stylish stackable earrings that are effortlessly fashionable!
- Best for: minimalist looks, multiple piercings, and active people.
- Style vibe: subtle, elegant, office-friendly
Medium Hoop Earrings
The medium hoop is probably the most classic style of earrings. Measuring about an inch below the earlobe, it is the perfect balance between a small hoop and a large hoop. Both stylish and sophisticated, medium earrings can be worn casually or dressed up, striking a balance between being understated and making a statement. Compared to huggies, medium earrings are more eye-catching and flattering.
When it comes to styling options, the possibilities for medium hoops are endless and have a versatile appeal. If you're going for a casual and relaxed look, pair medium hoop earrings with a flowy sundress. If you want to add a touch of elegance to your outfit, wear them with a black or white maxi dress and heels. If you want to try a fashion-forward punk style, you can add a cool vibe to it.
Besides, medium earrings are the perfect accessory for an evening party, as they can effortlessly transition from day to night.
- Best for: everyday wear, versatile styling.
- Style vibe: chic, balanced, timeless.
Large Hoop Earrings
Do you want to make a bold fashion statement? Then, large hoop earrings are the perfect choice for you. The size and unique shape of these earrings will attract attention and highlight your personality. The largest hoop earrings are usually over 50 millimeters in diameter and hang strikingly below the ear.
Large hoops are ideal for special occasions such as weddings, parties, or evening events. You can choose classic large hoops for a glamorous look on the red carpet, or hoop earrings with intricate designs for a distinctive look. Also, they can be part of your everyday look, adding a touch of personality and highlighting your casual outfits.
- Best for: statement outfits, parties, fashion-forward styling.
- Style vibe: bold, dramatic, attention-grabbing.
Choosing the Right Hoop Earring Size for Your Face Shape
Now that you've learned about the different hoop earring sizes, you may be wondering which size is right for your face shape. A properly sized pair of hoop earrings will accentuate the beauty of your features as well as balance out the shape of your face.
Whether your face shape is oval, round, square, heart, or diamond, there is always a size of hoop earrings that will enhance your natural beauty. But it's important to remember that the hoops that make you feel good are the best! Confidence is key.
Read on to follow our comprehensive guide to find the best hoops for your face shape and shine even brighter!
Round-Shaped Face
If your face is about the same width from all sides with slightly wider cheekbones and a scooped chin, you have a round face. You can benefit from longer, narrower hoops to create a more elongated appearance.
Oval-Shaped Face
Oval faces are the most versatile when it comes to hoop earring sizes. An oval-shaped face has features similar to those of a round face, except they are longer and narrower.
You can easily wear hoop earrings in almost any size! However, medium-sized hoop earrings tend to be the ideal choice because they are balanced without overpowering your features.
Diamond-Shaped Face
A diamond face is characterized by a narrow forehead and chin, and wide cheekbones. Medium to large hoop earrings are best suited for diamond faces to balance out the cheekbones and add softness to the overall look of a diamond face.
Heart-Shaped Face
Heart faces usually have a wider forehead and a narrower chin. For this face shape, it is best to choose medium or small hoop earrings. These sizes of hoop earrings will ease the wider forehead, balance the narrower chin, and draw attention to the jawline.
Square-Shaped Faces
Square faces can wear larger hoop earrings to soften the angles and add a hint of curves. The round shape of the hoops contrasts with the sharp lines of the square jaw and cheekbones, making the features look more balanced.
Matching Hoop Earrings with the Occasion and Style
When choosing earrings, consider the occasion and the outfit, as they will affect the size you need to wear. Hoop earrings are suitable for various settings, from casual to formal and special occasions.
- For casual occasions, feel free to experiment with large hoops with unique designs, textures, or embellishments. These large hoops are perfect for pairing with casual outfits such as jeans and t-shirts, summer dresses, or bohemian styles to add a playful element to your everyday look.
- For formal occasions, opt for small to medium-sized hoops that are elegant without being ostentatious. Classic, simple, high-quality gold or silver loops complement evening gowns. Small and medium sizes are understated and sophisticated, adding elegance to formal wear.
- For professional settings, choose simple, understated hoops that enhance professional attire without being too bold. Smooth silver, gold, or rose gold trumpet metal rings without extravagant details are the perfect choice to enhance texture.
FAQs
1. Are 8mm hoops too small?
If your ear piercing is closer to the edge of your ear, then a 6mm or 8mm will work best for you and is a moderate size. Make sure you have at least 1-2 mm of space between your skin and the earring; otherwise, a too-small hoop can cause discomfort and irritation.
2. How can I tell how big 30mm hoop earrings will look on me?
30 mm is about 1.18 inches. You can cut out a circle of this size from paper and stick it to your ear. This will give you an idea of how it will flatter the shape of your face.
Conclusion
In short, when choosing hoop earrings, select the right size for your style and comfort. The right is the best, and once you find the perfect size of hoops, you'll love wearing them!
