Growing up in the 80’s was truly a time for fashion. I will never forget when I first saw Salt-N-Pepa on the cover of their “Hot, Cool, Vicious” album. I was instantly in awe. I thought to myself, these women were too fly with their stacked and lopsided bobs, bold fashions, and most importantly hoop earrings— I had to have them!
I was a teenager when I was gifted my first pair of large gold hoops. And girl, you couldn’t tell me nothin’! From the moment I put them on, I exuded confidence. I started to turn heads as I proudly strutted through the hallways of school like a supermodel adorning my fly new earrings.
If you know, you know.
Our Relationship With Hoop Earrings
In the Black and Brown community, hoop earrings hold a special place in our hearts. Like any status symbol, hoop earrings have successfully transcended trends to become a timeless accessory, particularly celebrated in hip-hop culture.
According to Simone I. Smith, who is a self-proclaimed “hoop girl” and known for designing iconic jewelry, hoops are perfect for those who want to stand out and draw attention to their style.
“A woman who loves to rock hoop earrings is secure in who she is,” Smith shares with BrownStyle Magazine exclusively. “The bigger the hoop the more audacious her style. It’s her superpower!”
The Roots Of The Hoops
Hoop earrings are far from a modern invention. Its history dates back to ancient civilizations, where they adorned the ears of Sumerian women as a symbol of cultural identity and protection. The design was also popular in African and Egyptian cultures.
Fast forward to the 1980s, and hoops became a defining element of hip-hop fashion, worn by icons like Salt-N-Pepa, MC Lyte, Sweet Tee, and Queen Latifah— just to name a few.
From the streets to the red carpet, the circular earring design became a statement of clout, class, and cultural pride.
“Hoop earrings automatically add pizzazz to an ordinary look and bring out that, ‘I woke up like this’ essence,” wardrobe stylist Dr. Pilar Scratch adds. “Hoop earrings instantly turn an outfit from drab to fab, giving the wearer that edgy, ‘I’m here to slay today’ vibe.”
Iconic Hoops In Hip-Hop
Hip-hop has always been about self-expression and breaking boundaries. Hoop earrings have been integral in this narrative and have been embraced by multiple generations of artists as symbols of bold style— from LL Cool J celebrating girls with big earrings in his 90’s song “Jingling Baby” to Latto accepting BET’s Best New Artist award in 2022 with oversized hoops!
Through music, the accessories continue to symbolize empowerment and identity. And according to Dr. Scratch, “Hoop earrings are to accessories what the LBD is to your wardrobe. They are a wardrobe essential that echoes class and sophistication. And they are timeless, so they will never go out of style.”
Styling Your Hoops: Timeless Tips And Tricks
When it comes to styling your hoops, it’s all about letting your true personality shine. Below, find our experts’ shared advice for styling these fashionable necessities all year!
— Hoops and Hair
Your hairstyle can make a huge difference in how your hoops are showcased. High buns, sleek ponytails, baldies, and pixie cuts allow your earrings to stand out, while natural curls or voluminous waves can frame your face beautifully, adding a touch of softness to the boldness of the hoops.
— The Bigger, The Better
Oversized hoops make a bold statement and can elevate even the simplest outfits. Pair them with a sleek ponytail or up-do braids to let your earrings steal the spotlight.
“Every occasion is the best time to wear hoops,” Smith shares. “I prefer a large or XL with most of my looks. Women can size up or down to fit their hoops for any occasion or event depending on their preference and/or varied styles.”
✨ SHOP THE LOOK | 18kt Yellow Gold Over Sterling Silver Diamond Cut Extra Large Heart Shape Hoops
— Layer Up Your Hoops
Who says you can only wear one pair? Mixing and matching different sizes and styles of hoops was the thing to do in the 80’s and 90’s and it remains the same for a dynamic, layered look.
Think of small hoops in your second piercing and large ones in your primary for an edgy vibe.
✨ SHOP THE LOOK (Left) | Minimalist Geometric Hoop Earrings
✨ SHOP THE LOOK (Right) | Small Makiki Hoop Earrings
— Shine Brightly With Embellished Hoops
For a touch of glamor, opt for hoops with embellishments like rhinestones, pearls, or charms. These add a touch of sophistication while keeping the hip-hop spirit alive.
✨ SHOP THE LOOK (Left) | Girl Boss Earrings 2.0
✨ SHOP THE LOOK (Right) | Basic Large U-Hoop
— Experiment With Different Metallic Styles
Gold and silver are classic choices, but consider experimenting with rose gold, pearls, beads, and shells. Even brightly colored hoops are fly to match your outfit and mood.
✨ SHOP THE LOOK (Left) | Pearl and Bezel CZ Hoops
✨ SHOP THE LOOK (Right) | TRANSITION Medium Hoop Earrings (Silver only)
— Day To Night
Hoops are incredibly versatile.
Dr. Scratch believes hoop earrings are a great option for any occasion, both day and night.
For a daytime look, she suggests pairing them with casual wear like jeans and a graphic tee. To transition to the evening, she suggests donning a chic dress or a tailored jumpsuit and letting your hoops tell the story.
✨ SHOP THE LOOK | Heavenly Hoops with Diamond Embellishments – Extra Large
