How to Stack Earrings

Earring Types Perfect for Stacking 

When it comes to building your perfect ear stack, it helps to know your go-to pieces. Each earring type brings its own personality and purpose to the mix. Some are subtle fillers, others can easily steal the show and the best stacks usually have a little bit of both. 

Here’s a quick guide to the main earring styles and how you can play with them:

Studs 

Stud earrings are the silent heroes of earring stacking. They’re small, simple and incredibly versatile, which makes them perfect for filling in those upper piercings or balancing out a bolder piece. Classic solitaire studs, tiny gold balls or shapes like stars and hearts carry your stack to a whole new level. They give your stack structure without overpowering it, so you can mix as many as you like without things feeling too busy.

Hoops 

Hoops go with everything just like studs. From tiny huggies that sit close to your lobe to mid-size hoops that add some shine, these are the real must-haves for any stack. Start with classic hoop earrings in your first piercing and layer upwards with smaller studs or climbers. Or, if you’re feeling bold, try stacking multiple hoops of different sizes for a cascading effect.

Drops 

Drop earrings add movement and drama. They instantly make your stack feel a little more dressed up. They’re especially fun in a second or third piercing because they dangle just enough to catch the light without stealing all the attention. Pair a delicate drop with a hoop for balance or use a sparkling gemstone drop to give your everyday stack a bit of sparkle.

Ear Climbers 

If you want instant impact without multiple piercings, ear climbers are your best friend. They trace along your ear and give the illusion of a stacked look all on their own. You can also have a little bit of both and try a climber on one ear and mix studs and hoops on the other for a playful, asymmetrical vibe. 

5 Tips for Stacking Earrings Like a Pro 

Stacking might look complicated at first glance, but once you know a few key tricks, it’s actually super easy. Think of it as a step-by-step process: start with a strong base, layer on and play around until it feels right. Learn these simple tips and you’re good to go.

1. Choose Your Star of the Show
Every great stack starts with a centerpiece. This is usually your biggest or boldest earring, the one you want to be noticed first. It could be a chunky hoop in your first piercing, a sparkling drop that adds drama or a personalized piece like an initial stud or symbolic charm. Once you’ve picked your “star,” you can build the rest of your stack around it.

2. Think about Cascading
Earring stacks tend to look best when they flow naturally. That’s why the cascading rule works wonders. Start big at the bottom and gradually get smaller as you move up your ear. A bold hoop in your first piercing, a dainty stud in your second and maybe a tiny gem in your cartilage. That’s the kind of layering that feels polished and effortless.

3. Balance Looks and Comfort
When it comes to earring stacking, balance is key. Too many heavy earrings can literally weigh you down, while too many detailed designs can look a bit messy. Try mixing one or two eye-catching pieces with simpler, classic studs or huggies to keep it comfortable and chic.

4. Play With Metals and Textures
Don’t shy away from mixing and matching. Rose gold next to silver, matte hoops with sparkly studs, these contrasts actually make your stack more interesting. Playing with textures and finishes adds depth, and mixing metals keeps your stack modern and fun. You can just keep a few repeating elements (like shape or color) to tie it all together.

5. Match Earrings to Piercing Spots
When you’re stacking, placement matters just as much as the earring itself. Different styles go well with different parts of your ear, so knowing what works where is key.

• Lobe: This is your most versatile canvas. Bigger hoops, statement studs or playful drops all sit beautifully here since the lobe can handle more weight and attention.

• Helix: The outer rim of your ear is perfect for more dainty accents like slim hoops or tiny studs. They add just the right amount of edge without overwhelming the look.

• Conch: Tucked inside the ear, the conch is ideal for a bold hoop that hugs the ear or a single eye-catching stud.

• Tragus: This small, flat spot is best for minimal studs.

• Forward Helix: Right at the front of your upper ear, this little spot would shine beautifully with tiny studs or delicate huggies.

You’re All Set 

All these tips are here to guide you, but at the end of the day, your ear stack is all about what feels right for you. Mix, match and see what feels good on you, sometimes the most unexpected combos end up being your favorites. While you’re at it, don’t forget to check out our earrings collection that’s made to mix, layer and shine.