Create a free account to access exclusive content, play games, solve puzzles, test your pop-culture knowledge and receive special offers.Already have an account? Login
First For Women has affiliate partnerships. We receive compensation when you click on a link and make a purchase. Learn more!
There are two types of women in this world: Those with pierced ears, and those without. But even if you fall in the latter camp, you don’t have to go without in the accessories department. Whether you simply never got around to piercing your ears or you’re the squeamish sort that can’t bear the thought of the needle, there are plenty of clip-on earrings out there for you that will look just as nice as a traditional pair.
What
is a clip-on earring?
Chances are, if you’ve ever shopped vintage jewelry, you’re familiar with a clip-on earring. Originally designed for Victorian women who felt it was disgraceful to poke holes through their ears, they fastened to the ear through a screw back, and later, a simple paddle clip, which rose to prominence in the ‘50s.
Modern backs for these earrings include those with magnets or mini clips, which make it the less obvious that they’re clip-on.
Why wear clip-on earrings?
While clip-ons open up new jewelry possibilities to those with non-pierced ears, they work just as well for those that have had the procedure done.
We know what you’re thinking: “If I went through the trouble of piercing my ears, why wouldn’t I just go with the real deal?” Well, for starters, if you happen to be a fan of long, dangly earrings, damage to the lobe, including stretching or tearing, can occur when wearing styles with piercing closures.
When
worn correctly, a clip-on earring offers up the same chandelier look with less
risk. These earring closures may also help to keep certain styles, like flat
earrings that tend to tip forward, in place.
Placing certain metals inside your ear hole, such as copper, may also cause a greater reaction in those with sensitive skin than a clip-on style might.
It’s important to note, however, that clip fixtures should not be worn too tightly. As a plastic surgeon explained to Argenteus, the tissue inside your earlobe can become soft if too much pressure is continuously placed on it from a clip-on, causing its structure and elasticity to deteriorate.
Where to Buy Clip-On Earrings
While clip-on earrings may not be as readily available as, say, a standard pair of hoops, you’d be surprised at the amount of retailers that carry them. Most department stores, including Macy’s, Bloomingdale’s, Nordstrom, and Neiman Marcus, had several pairs to peruse.
Designers (hello, Oscar de la Renta!) also cater to the non-pierced market, offering an upscale selection of goods you’ll be proud to show off. And, if you’re looking for a cheap pair to try things out, we’ve got those, too.
Keep reading to shop the best clip-on earrings we found on the market for pierced and non-pierced ears alike.
We love these handmade pewter accessories, which come plated with sterling silver or 24K gold. They have a 2-inch drop, making them just long enough to be noticed, but not long enough to hurt, and a hammered design that will reflect the light in any room.
If you’re more partial to gold, check out these circular hoops from modern-day favorite, Anne Klein. They have a retro disc design and an easy paddle clip back that will make them your new go-to pair.
It doesn’t get much prettier than these floral teardrop pieces from L&M, which measure 1-inch long and have a vibrant purple hue. They’re also equipped with an easy-on, easy-off clip closure that will make wearing them a breeze.
For a fancier take on the clip-on trend, check out these stunners from Nadari. We could easily see these floral-shaped earrings with shiny glass stones completing a bridal look, be it for a guest, a bridal party member, or the actual betrothed.
Kendra Scott’s 14K gold tassel clip-ons are casual enough to wear to the office, yet offer up a dressy element in the form of their cubic zirconia accents that make them a great pick for an after-work dinner, too.
SAVE NOW: Use coupon code LOVE to take an extra 20 percent off your purchase through Feb. 14.
More of a minimalist? Why not opt for these simple Love Knot earrings from Charter Club? These everyday finds are set in gold or silver-tone mixed metal and clip on at the back to be worn by everyone, from your grandma without a piercing to her name to your niece, who has three.
If you love color, you can’t go wrong with these long, colorful tassel and pom pom earrings found on Etsy. Boasting an array of neon blue, green, orange, yellow, and hot pink, they make for a serious statement piece.
If you want to give clip-on earrings a go, but aren’t willing to spend an arm and a leg to do so, these silver-tone square pieces from Chico’s are for you. They’re less than $10(!) right now, making them affordable enough for any budget, and have a basic hammered stud design that will go with any outfit. They’re also made with nickel-free metal, so they're wearable for even those with sensitive skin.
Those with a penchant for fun and playful accessories will want to take note of these Sachin & Bibi glass-beaded hoop stunners. They come in two bright shades and bring the aesthetic of India, the company's native country, to life.
Leave it to style powerhouse Oscar de la Renta to take the clip-on earring and make it high-fashion. These dangly resin-pearls are set in polished yellow gold-tone pewter and feature crystal pavé accents.
Hoops don’t have to be painful, and these on-trend Liz Claiborne gold-tone earrings are picture-proof. Made with an easy-wear back, they’ll slide right off your ears when you undo the paddle hinge.
Simple and stunning, T Tahari gives us a classic, wearable stud in the form of a clip-on. These have a silver-tone finish around large opal stones and a pavé frame that’s sure to wow.
Use left and right arrow keys to navigate between menu items.
Use right arrow key to move into submenus.
Use escape to exit the menu.
Use up and down arrow keys to explore.
Use left arrow key to move back to the parent list.
