Few trends have shaken things up recently as much as the rise of earring stacks. No longer just a fleeting fashion choice, earring stacks have become a go-to accessory, adding that extra edge to casual outfits, formal outfits and even bridal outfits as modern brides jump on the stacking trend for their choice of wedding earrings.
Whether you’re a minimalist or love a bold statement, the stacking trend is one of the most versatile and expressive forms of self-adornment. And unlike tattoos they’re easily changeable.
Around the globe, we’ve fully embraced the art of earring stacks, and it’s easy to see why. This fashion trend doesn’t just look great; it resonates with the desire to express your individuality.
Let’s dive into the origins of earring stacks, the celebrities who’ve popularised them, and why they’re here to stay as a universal style statement for all ages and genders.
How Did the Earring Stack Trend Start?
Though the exact origin of earring stacking is difficult to pinpoint, it has roots in the punk and rock cultures of the 1970s and 80s. In those days, multiple piercings and layered earrings were often associated with rebellion, a visual marker of being part of the counterculture.
However, what started as a subversive style has evolved over the decades to become a celebrated fashion choice that speaks to modern style and self-expression.
More recently, this trend has been refined and reimagined by high fashion, making its way to the red carpet and beyond. Jewellery designers began creating pieces specifically designed to be worn in multiples, encouraging wearers to experiment with layering different shapes, metals, and sizes in a way that feels personal.
The stacking trend soon became synonymous with a certain cool, effortless vibe that fashion-forward individuals everywhere wanted to emulate. Today, it’s no longer just about rebellion; it’s about crafting a look that’s uniquely yours.
Celebrity Inspiration – Who’s Wearing Earring Stacks?
It’s no surprise that the stacking trend gained traction with celebrities; they’re the ones who set the style bar high and introduce trends to the world.
Starting on the international front, Gigi Hadid, Bella Hadid, and Rihanna are just a few stars who’ve taken to stacking their earrings, often showcasing a mix of hoops, studs, and ear cuffs.
Zendaya is another star who frequently sports earring stacks, blending classic and edgy designs with ease. She’s often seen with a mix of gold, silver, and diamonds, creating a multi-dimensional look that captures attention. This has inspired fans globally, setting a trend that people from all walks of life have adopted.
And in Australia, actress Margot Robbie and singer Troye Sivan have also been spotted wearing earring stacks. Robbie, known for her laid-back Aussie charm and good looks, combines subtle yet stylish stacks that complement her understated, timeless look, proving that you don’t need to go overboard to make an impact.
Meanwhile, Sivan has embraced earring stacks as part of his overall aesthetic, showing how this trend transcends traditional gender boundaries.
Australian fashion icons and influencers, like Elle Ferguson and Jesinta Franklin, have also championed the stacked earring look on social media, adding their own twist and inspiring a wave of followers to do the same.
Their stacks often combine fine jewelry with more trendy pieces, which has helped popularise the idea that you don’t need a full collection of luxury pieces to achieve a polished, stylish look.
Why Earring Stacks Are So Popular Right Now
The stacking trend isn’t just popular because celebrities are doing it; it reflects a cultural shift towards embracing personal style and freedom. Here’s why it resonates with so many people:
Self-Expression: We live in a time when people want to show who they are and express themselves, and fashion is one of the most accessible ways to do that.
Earring stacks let you personalise your look in a way that reflects your mood, personality, and style. Each earring choice says something unique about the wearer, whether it’s a simple gold stud, a diamond hoop, or a bold ear cuff.
Fashion Flexibility: Unlike other jewelry trends that require a particular occasion or setting, earring stacks are versatile enough for any outfit, day or night. You can wear them to work, a night out, or even a casual brunch.
They’re a style chameleon, easily transitioning from one look to another without losing their impact.
Gender Neutrality: Earring stacks are wonderfully inclusive, appealing to all ages, genders, and styles. Men, women, and non-binary individuals alike are embracing stacked earrings, and they’re worn across generations.
It’s an approach to jewellery that’s both modern and inclusive, encouraging people to define beauty on their terms.
A Lasting Investment: People are more focused than ever on pieces that they can wear year-round. Stacking allows for that because you can keep your favorite earrings in and add or swap pieces as you like, making it a practical investment for the long term.
Variety of Choice: With so many earring styles available, the stacking trend is accessible to everyone. From affordable high-street options to fine jewelry, it’s easy to find pieces that suit any budget, making it an attainable way to keep up with fashion.
How to Create Your Own Earring Stack
One of the best parts about earring stacks is that there’s no right or wrong way to do it. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
Pick a Theme: Some people prefer all gold or all silver, while others love mixing metals. Choose a theme that resonates with you, whether that’s going for a minimalist vibe with simple studs or embracing a bolder look layering lots of hoops and cuffs.
Play with Proportions: Combine larger hoops or statement pieces with smaller studs to add depth and dimension. Mixing various sizes keeps your ear stack interesting without feeling too busy.
Don’t Forget the Ear Cuffs: You don’t need multiple piercings to get the stacked look. Ear cuffs are a great option that can be slipped on and off, giving you the stacked effect without any commitment.
Mix Textures and Shapes: Instead of focusing on matching pairs, go for variety with different textures and shapes. Adding a pop of color, like emerald green or sapphire blue stones, can add a surprising twist. Or try adding pearls for a stunning lustre.
Why Earring Stacks Are Here to Stay
Trends come and go, but the stacking trend has proven to have lasting power. It taps into a desire to express individuality, which isn’t something that goes out of style.
Because earring stacks are so customisable, they’re unlikely to be replaced by any one specific look. Instead, they’ve become a foundational part of jewellery styling, right up there with layering necklaces or stacking rings.
This isn’t just a trend that looks great in photos or works well with specific outfits; it’s a fashion statement that you can make your own, regardless of what’s in vogue.
So, whether you’re inspired by your favorite celebrity, your favorite influencer, or simply your own style intuition, earring stacks let you make a statement in a way that’s uniquely yours.
So go ahead, curate your stack, experiment, and make it yours. The only rule? Have fun with it.
