As far as jewelry choices go, earrings are one of the oldest in history.
Piercing has been an important part of human culture for centuries, with both men and women choosing to wear earrings in cultures across the globe.
But for guys today, finding the right earrings — one’s that you feel confident and look great in — isn’t the easiest.
That’s what we’re here to clear up, with notes on the cultural significance of men’s earrings along the way.
What Kind of Earrings Should Guys Wear?
Studs are a classic starting point, but there’s no reason that guys can’t try wearing dangle, hoop, huggie, or any other style of earring.
As with all jewelry, guys should wear earrings that make them feel cool, comfortable, and confident.
Are Earrings on Guys Attractive?
I think about attractiveness in fashion and jewelry choices in this way:
There are some things that are inherently unattractive, but these are mostly to do with hygiene. Dirty or smelly clothes are an immediate turnoff for most women, and so are jewelry and piercings that you’re not keeping clean.
If you’re going to get earrings, be ready to take really good care of the skin around your piercings.
But everything else? All the clothing choices, types of jewelry, hairstyles, etc.?
Whether they’re attractive is really just a matter of opinion. You’re not going to be attractive to 100% of people 100% of the time, either, so go with clothes and jewelry that make you feel good.
Then your confidence will radiate out, which is an attractive thing in and of itself.
Do Straight Guys Wear Earrings?
The 80s and 90s were a weird time for cultural attitudes towards clothing and jewelry, and specifically what they indicated about a person’s sexuality.
The main rumor about earrings (that’s persisted into today) is that if a guy pierces only their right ear, they do it as a sign to let others know they’re gay.
Is that true today?
Maybe in some subcultures, but not in most of society.
Now, plenty of straight guys wear earrings — either in a single ear of their choice, or in both. It’s totally acceptable for straight guys to wear earrings.
Are Male Earrings Unprofessional?
Well first, I have to ask: What’s your profession?
If you’re going into a formal office every day, it might be better to leave your new studs at home. Because in more traditional settings, male earrings are considered “alternative”, which can definitely be taken as “unprofessional”.
What’s Next? Men’s Earrings Guides
That’s it for this edition of Ask Cladright! If you’re curious to know more about men’s earrings, check out these other guides:
- All the different types of earrings for guys
- The best fake diamond earrings for guys
- Our full tour of men wearing jewelry, and how to do it well
And as always, drop us a line on Instagram if you have any questions.