Fashion is cyclical, and few areas demonstrate this more vividly than earrings. The 80s and 90s—two decades that couldn't be more different—provide the richest source of inspiration for current collections. From the maximalist opulence of the power shoulder to the minimalist chic of grunge: we delve into the most influential earring trends of these eras and show you how to stylishly incorporate vintage vibes today.
The 80s: Bigger, Bolder, Better (The Maximalist Era)
The 1980s were an era of extravagance, status symbols, and visible success. Earrings in this decade were not just accessories, but confident statements.
1. The statement hoop earring (hoops with volume)
Forget delicate rings: The 80s hoop earring was big, wide, and meant to be noticed. They were often made of bright, polished gold or a gold-colored material and served as the perfect counterpart to voluminous hairstyles and shoulder pads.
2. The Clip-On King
Since ear piercings weren't as widespread as they are today, clip-on earrings experienced their heyday. They were often huge, made of plastic or resin, and featured geometric shapes (triangles, diamonds). This allowed for the wearing of heavy, elaborate designs without the pain of a piercing. The motto was: the bigger and the more they looked like gold, the better.
3. Geometry and Texture
The designs were often inspired by Art Deco, but implemented in large, abstract forms. Think interlocking, textured gold elements, braided or twisted metal structures, and large, chunky stud earrings that covered the entire earlobe.
The 90s: Silver, Sleek & Subtle (The Era of Understatement)
After the exuberant opulence of the 80s, the 90s saw a radical change in style. Jewelry became smaller, more understated, and the color palette shifted from gold to silver.
1. The delicate silver hoop
The large gold hoop earrings were replaced by simple, thin silver rings, often only 1–2 cm in diameter. They were the epitome of 90s minimalism and perfectly complemented the slip dress trend and the understated elegance of supermodels like Kate Moss. Today, we see these delicate, slightly oval hoop earrings as an essential basic piece.
2. The pearl stud earring (Classic with a Twist)
Even the simple pearl stud earring made a comeback, albeit without the stiff image of previous decades. It was worn as a contrast to grunge looks or as the perfect complement to simple blazers – a touch of femininity in an otherwise very androgynous fashion.
3. Candy and plastic jewelry
In the later decade, influenced by pop culture and the rise of Y2K, playful elements were introduced. Think small stud earrings shaped like butterflies, colorful plastic flowers, or tiny dangle earrings with colored glass beads. These designs brought a youthful, slightly ironic charm to the jewelry world.
4. Chain and plug – The grunge influence
Inspired by the subculture, subtle stud earrings or small hoop earrings were combined with fine chains or discreet pendants, conveying a subtle, "cool" aesthetic.
Vintage styling inspiration today
The modern appeal lies in the mix and match of these two eras.
- The 80s dose: Use a large 80s statement piece (e.g. a massive gold hoop earring) as an anchor and keep the rest of the jewelry (rings, necklaces) minimalist in the 90s silver style.
- The clash of materials: Combine delicate 90s silver chains with the chunky, textured gold earrings of the 80s. The contrast in styles looks deliberate and modern.
- Curated Ear: Embrace the 90s preference for small, simple hoop earrings and stacking studs to fill your earlobe, but add a pop of color with a wider, geometric 80s-style ear cuff on the upper ear. This creates a balanced, contemporary look.
