Ear Climbers for Beginners

You may have heard them called ear climbers, ear crawlers, and even ear cuffs. But the common denominator is that these earrings are not your typical pair. They are often singular or mis-matched, and they quite honestly, crawl up your ear a bit. Over a year ago I wrote an article about this trend (click here to read it), and it appears to be one that’s not just a flash-in-the-pan. Not only are the celebrities wearing them, but it’s hitting the streets all over.

Taylor Schilling rocking a diamond ear climber at the 2014 Emmy awards
Taylor Schilling rocking a diamond ear climber at the 2014 Emmy awards

I have to admit, I’m intrigued. As I always tell my clients, there are going to be lots of trends out there each season, but that doesn’t mean you need to adopt them. Just stay true to your personal style, and try the ones that really resonate with you. Well, my personal style, which I define as “urban bohemian,” was all over trying this out, but in a more understated way. So off I went on an internet shopping spree, and the next thing I knew, my UPS guy was knocking at my door. I chose this topaz and ruthenium pair by Elizabeth and James (gotta love the Olson twins!) for my first attempt. Can I say love at first wear?!

elizabeth and james vida ear climbers
Yes, this is a matching pair, but I thought it was a nice, not-too-extrme way to try it all out. And I must say that on my first three days wearing them, I’ve been stopped numerous times with inquiries. It did take a little maneuvering to get them to stay in the right place. I’ve squeezed the cuff part to really grab my earlobe so that they don’t droop down during the day.

elizabeth and james vida ear crawlers
Now, I want to explore the next step, where I have a crawler in one ear, and just a stud or hoop in the other. Here are some of the options I’m exploring. First is this gorgeous bezel-set earring by Jacquie Aiche.

jacquie aiche bezel ear cuff
jaquie aiche
If your personal style is a little more rocker, then these graduated spikes by Smith + Mara might get you going.

smith + mara graduated spike ear crawler
Perhaps your style is more feminine and whimsical. Then Jennifer Zeuner may have you pegged with these butterfly or pearl renditions.

jennifer zeuner symone small ear crawler
jennifer zeuner sylvia ear crawlers
Even the minimalist can find an interpretation of this trend. This cutout design, again by Smith + Mara, is so sleek and simple yet it is still just so much more than your average earring.

smith + mara cutout skimmer ear crawler
smith + mara ear crawler
If you want to take things just a step farther, then take a look at these bedazzled vines by Ca & Lou. They are definitely more of a statement.

ca & lou anne lobo earrings
ca & lou anne lobo earrings
And for the grand finale, I think this black diamond star by Milka Star is pretty spectacular. What a way to spice up your outfit!

kismet by milka star ear crawler
kismet by milka
So what about YOU? Is this a trend that appeals to you? Are you going to try it out? Or is this one you’ll reserve for viewing on the pages of fashion magazines? Please post your comments and photos!