Huggie Earrings & Small Hoop Earrings: The Complete Guide

Huggie Earrings & Small Hoop Earrings: The Complete Guide

Arwa Hassan –

Huggie Earrings: The Complete Guide

Huggie earrings and small hoops are among the most versatile and wearable jewellery pieces. But what exactly makes a huggie different from a small hoop, and which style is right for you? In this complete guide, we’ll break down definitions, history, fit, care, and styling tips so you can confidently choose your perfect pair.

What Are Huggie Earrings?

In a nutshell, huggies are small earrings that ‘hug’ the earlobe, hence the name. Made typically from metal, the hoop sits flush against the skin, though there may be a slight gap depending on your ear shape. Huggies are snug, comfortable, and suitable for everyday wear.

Gold hoop earrings with embedded diamonds.

What Are Small Hoop Earrings?

Hoop earrings have been a jewellery staple throughout history, ranging from dramatic 120mm statement pieces down to subtle designs. Small hoops generally measure 26mm–50mm, though huggies, typically 5mm–25mm, are often included in this category. Small hoops can feature charms, textures, or gems, with some trends extending the earring’s drop for a more noticeable effect.

Huggie Earrings vs Small Hoop Earrings

Huggies and small hoops may look similar, but the key difference is size:

Feature

Huggie Earrings 

Small Hoop Earrings

Size

5mm-25mm

26mm-50mm

Fit

Snug, hugs the earlobe

Slight gap between hoop and lobe

Style

Simple or with small charms

Simple, textured or with larger charms


All huggies are small hoops, but not all small hoops are huggies. Anything over 50mm falls into medium or large hoop categories. Designs can overlap – both can feature gems, charms, or textured finishes – but huggies are generally the most compact and practical for everyday wear. 

Why Choose Huggies or Small Hoops?

Both styles are incredibly comfortable, unlikely to rub or tangle, and suitable for work, the gym, or a night out. Huggies are especially versatile due to their snug fit, making them less likely to catch on hair or clothing. While sleeping with earrings isn’t recommended, huggies are one of the safest small options if you forget to remove them.

We offer a wide variety of huggies and small hoop earrings, along with medium and large hoops, drop earrings, ear cuffs, and studs. Browse our full earring collection here.

How to Wear Huggie Earrings

Huggies are incredibly versatile and can complement any outfit. Because they sit close to the ear, they pair beautifully with ear stacks, studs, or larger statement earrings. They can also be worn in cartilage piercings like the forward helix, tragus, or rook.

Common Questions About Huggie Earrings

Do you need a piercing for huggies?

Yes, most huggies require pierced ears, with a rod or bar inserted through the piercing. Some clip-on versions are available for non-pierced ears, but ensure the clasp isn’t too tight. Ear cuffs are another stylish non-pierced option.

How do huggie earrings work?

Huggies fasten like traditional hoops, often with a hinge or infinity clasp. Due to their small size, they can be fiddly at first, but with practice, they’re easy to put on and take off.

How to care for huggies?

Keep them clean and dry, remove before swimming or showering, and store separately to avoid scratches. Regular gentle polishing will help maintain their shine.

Our Current Favourite Huggies

 

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