All About the ’80s Earrings Trend and How to Style It

We’re mere months away from 2025, and yet designers seem to be harkening back to a bygone era: the ’80s. From polka-dot dresses à la Princess Diana to Madonna-approved colorful tights, bold details inspired by the maximalist decade are at the forefront of fashion right now. And the unapologetic ’80s look also extends to our accessories: Those funky, larger-than-life earrings your mom held on to all these years? Swipe ’em from her jewelry box (we won’t tell) because, in case you haven’t heard, the style is taking the scene by storm.

One of the biggest accessories trends from this fall, ’80s statement earrings look set to build momentum in the coming months as fashion continues to embrace all things maximalist, chaotic, and fun. Ahead, we chart the trend’s history from its ’80s origin to its comeback—plus, we explore how to style it today, complete with several standout pairs to try for yourself.

The Rise of Maximalist ’80s Earrings

First, let’s backtrack to the look’s inception. During the ’80s, earring trends fell in line with the decade’s “more is more” sartorial mindset. This translated to a number of statement-making baubles, arguably the most popular being in-your-face button earrings, a fixture in the late Princess of Wales’ regal ensembles as well as Whitney Houston’s red carpet looks. Luxury fashion houses like Chanel, Dior, and Givenchy led the charge, releasing oh-so-shiny gold styles festooned with details like logos, pearls, and textured metal (most were clip-on, as traditional earrings in these styles were often quite heavy).

Oversize pearl earrings in all their polished glory, too, ruled the ’80s jewelry world, often in tandem with power suits, as many women claimed their space in the workforce. Meanwhile, the decade ushered in playful, brightly colored styles as well, typically by way of ginormous hoops or interesting geometric shapes (see: Demi Moore’s style from ’82). Chandelier earrings, a style loved by pop star Cyndi Lauper, also had their moment. To put it simply, the earring trends in the ’80s were all over the map.

The ’80s Earring Trend in 2024

The resurgence of ’80s-inspired earrings has been somewhat of a slow burn, considering that the trend began bubbling up on the runways last year. Anthony Vaccarello, the creative director of Saint Laurent, clearly had the era on his mind when designing the brand’s fall 2023 collection, as evidenced by the XXL studs, which were nearly as big as the models’ ears. (’80s-inspired blazers with strong shoulder silhouettes were also a prominent theme in the collection.) Khaite, too, tapped into the trend, showcasing gold ultra-chunky, textured earrings.

Fast-forward to the fall 2024 catwalks, and the trend hit a fever pitch. Versace sent models down the runway in gold button earrings featuring the heritage label’s signature Medusa head motif, while Ester Manas presented a similar-looking button pair boasting crinkled gold metal, which, was meant to replicate a candy wrapper.

To no surprise, celebrities have been partially responsible for the comeback as well. At the Cannes Film Festival this past May, Bella Hadid wowed the crowd in Aureum Collective’s Cait Earrings, which look straight out of the decade. Hailey Bieber has an unwavering love affair with Heaven Mayhem’s ’80s-esque earrings, including the mini knot style and vase look. Likewise, the Rhode founder’s close friend Justine Skye just gave the trend her stamp of approval, posting an Instagram picture wearing large square-shaped gold studs.

Much like any once-popular style’s resurrection, these playful adornments are looking a bit different this time around. “’80s-inspired earrings are really taking on a whole new life,” explains Stephanie Tchamanian, the designer and founder of Lili Claspe. That’s because designers, including Tchamanian, are turning the jewelry trend on its head. “What sets them apart now is the clever use of lightweight materials like acrylics and resins. This means you can rock those bold statement pieces all day without any discomfort—style doesn’t have to be heavy!” 

Meanwhile, Tchamanian is also noticing a modern twist on classic silhouettes taking center stage. “Chunky hoops and geometric shapes are making a comeback, but they’re often enhanced with sleek finishes and unexpected color palettes that give them a fresh, elevated feel—it’s all about that striking contrast,” she says.

Styling ’80s Earrings for Modern Times

When it comes to styling this jewelry trend, you have several different avenues you can explore, depending on your aesthetic and desired look. Pia Mance, the founder of Heaven Mayhem, says that her clients (including the industry’s It girls) wear their baubles with more minimal separates. “A simple tee and trousers for a sleek look paired with our bold statement earrings strike the perfect balance,” she tells Byrdie. Additionally, ’80s-themed earrings are fitting for a special occasion, such as a wedding or anniversary: “We loved seeing this and are planning to lean into wedding-guest dressing more heavily in 2025,” Mance shares. Should you take this route, consider teaming a shiny gold button earring with a versatile statement piece like an of-the-moment burgundy number.

Standout Earrings to Shop

If the fall 2024 runways and celebrity sightings are any indication, the ’80s earrings trend is set to ramp up in the coming months. On that note, take your jewelry collection back in time by shopping 12 pairs inspired by the decade below.

For the Fashion Lover: Heaven Mayhem Ribbed Gold

In addition to Bieber, Heaven Mayhem counts fashion girls like Sofia Richie Grainge and Matilda Djerf as fans of its Ribbed Gold earrings, and it’s easy to see why. This style will add the perfect amount of texture to any look.

For the Vintage Collector: Givenchy ’80s Gold Button Earrings

Want the real deal? Source a vintage style from the ’80s, like these can’t-look-away clip-on button earrings courtesy of Givenchy. They’re showstopping and sleek in equal measure.

For the Cosmopolitan: Lili Claspe Small Arlo Earrings

“We incorporate playful textures and intricate detailing that really make our pieces stand out,” Tchamanian says, referring to styles like the brand’s Arlo Earrings. “It’s not just about embracing the boldness of the ’80s; it’s about reinterpreting it for the modern woman who wants to express herself in a chic and effortless way.”

For the Art Kid on a Budget: Mango Earrings with Geometric Relief

If geometric earrings resonate with your personal style, snag Mango’s square-shaped iteration. For under $30, they’re a great entry point into the jewelry trend, and we love the museum-ready feel.

For the Modern Maximalist: Christina Caruso Baby Triple Hoop Earring

According to namesake jewelry designer Christina Caruso, the label’s ’80s-like Triple Hoop Earrings tie into the maximalist trend happening right now. She adds, “When designing with vintage inspiration, I focus on refining timeless elements to feel fresh and modern while still honoring the original essence.”

For the Dopamine Dresser: Lele Sadoughi Spiral Button Earrings

Wake up your jewelry collection with these color-happy spiral button earrings from Lele Sadoughi. Pair them with dainty, understated pieces so they aren’t competing for attention.

For the Sophisticated Romantic: Mateo New York Duality Pearl Earrings

As noted, pearls reigned during the ’80s, and this style resembles something Princess Di donned at formal affairs with an organic, modern twist.

For the Mixed-Metal Fan: Saint Laurent Geometric Earrings

Combining gold and silver, Saint Laurent’s Geometric Earrings are a surefire way to spice up any fall ’fit. The mixed metal material and vintage silhouette give the pair a retrofuturist feel.

For the Life of the Party: Alison Lou Small Lucite Jelly Hoop Earrings

Alison Lou nailed the nostalgic neon hoops look with its hot pink lucite jelly earrings. They’re also available in apple green (Brat autumn, anyone?) if those are more your sartorial speed.

For the Unapologetic Style Icon: Alexis Bittar Crumpled Gold Large Post Earrings

Thanks to the crumpled gold metal and intriguing shape, these Alexis Bittar earrings are real conversation starters. In other words? Everyone will be asking where you scored them.

For the Rock Star: Free People ’80s Maximalist Chandelier Earrings Selected by Marmalade

Admittedly not for the faint of heart, Free People’s chandelier earrings are as maximalist as it gets. Let them be the focal point of your ensemble by finishing them off with elevated basics like a white button-up and relaxed jeans.

For the Detail-Oriented: Oma The Label The Sannhet Earrings

Boasting triple-twisted rope detailing, Oma The Label’s The Sannhet Earrings are polished yet impactful. This look is the secret to taking every look up a notch (or two).

The Case for Going Big or Going Home This Season

The ’80s earring trend is the latest in a maximalist revival over the past year following 2023’s quiet luxury era, and it comes at a time when its unapologetically bold details feel truly fresh. The beauty of any nostalgic trend is that we have double the inspo to pull from, so it’s up to you whether you want to emulate Princess Diana or Sofia Richie Grainge or invent a look all your own. A statement accessory truly has the power to take any outfit from everyday to eye-catching, so don’t be afraid to get creative with your styling this holiday season and beyond for some unforgettable moments.