During this time of year, when your calendar is filled to the brim with holiday events, office parties, and other end-of-year engagements that call for festive outfits, more is more — especially when it comes to accessories. And what better accessory to elevate your outfit than one with a heavy dose of sparkle? If you’ve been pondering finally trying out the crystal earring trend that appeared on the runways of New York and Paris, now is the time. These fashion-forward danglers have adorned the lobes of every fashion insider – and just in time for the holidays, it's your turn to pick up a pair.
For women who came up in the late '90s and early '00s, crystal earrings are nothing new, but time around what sets the trendy baubles apart is variety; styles run the gamut from chandelier to geometric to duster drops. “Excess is on it's way back in, but in a very modern way,” says stylist Annebet Duvall. Dainty, delicate jewelry has long held the spotlight, but now, there's demand for something a bit more statement-making.
As for styling, the key to keeping a crystal earring modern is balance. “It’s like fashion math,” says stylist Elle Strauss. “If you have one statement, then everything else should add up to something super simple. This calms the look down so the earrings don’t feel so contrived.” So, whether you stick with a chandelier style or go for something iridescent, crystal earrings are a foolproof way to bring a little excitement into your winter wardrobe. Before reaching for a new bag or shoe to switch up your look, check out six ways you can make these on-trend earrings your new go-to accessory.
Colored Crystal Earrings + All Black Outfit
Colorful crystal earrings put a fresh spin on an all-black ensemble. “Put color in an earring, as opposed to a shoe or bag,” Duvall suggests. Stick to simple pieces, such as a blouse or turtleneck to draw attention to the bright tones in the earrings. If you want to dress it up for evening, opt for a black midi dress or jumpsuit with strappy heels.
Crystal Chandelier Earrings + Neutral Sweater + Leather Pants
The crystal chandelier earring has become an Instagram favorite this winter. Mix them with a neutral knit and tough leather pants to create the ultimate luxe cold-weather look — and to get you out of your denim rut. Add kitten heels for the perfect office holiday party look.
Drop Crystal Earrings + Patent Leather Jacket
Dainty drop crystal earrings and a patent leather jacket create a polished-yet-edgy look. “Rule of opposites attract,” Duvall says. “I like the juxtaposition of leather and crystals.” Pair the jacket with a t-shirt half-tucked into a straight-leg jean and white booties.
Geometric Crystal Earrings + White T-shirt + Button-Down + High-Waisted Pants
Throw on a pair of geometric crystal earrings to update the effortless look of a white t-shirt, button-down or blazer, and trousers. “Let the earrings do the talking,” Strauss says. “You want to have a clean look, that way the crystal works harder to pop. A slightly oversized blazer allows the earrings to stand out.”
Shiny Dress + Even Shinier Earrings
Of all the holiday outfits, nothing feels quite as festive as a full-on sparkly and shiny ensemble. These chic-yet party-ready earrings will have you dripping through New Year’s Eve. “Crystal earrings elongate the neck and add extra sparkle when they move,” says stylist Dani Michelle.
Oversized Crystal Earrings + Silk Top + Dark Denim
Like "more is more,” the idea that bigger is better also stands true during the holiday season. When paired with a sophisticated look like a silk top and jeans, oversized crystal earrings become a statement – without being too over-the-top.
