3 Ways African Accessories Brands Have Reinvented the Classic Hoop Earring
Spring has finally sprung – the days are getting longer, the weather is warmer and the leaves are turning green once more. It’s no surprise that the arrival of a new season, especially one that signifies hope, inspires a new approach to dressing. Of course, we still aren’t going very far these days; the walk from bedroom to living room to kitchen is about as far as it gets.
But if you’re still looking for a fresh way to spruce up your look for spring, whether you’re appearing on multiple Zoom calls while working from home or making an essential grocery run, then we’ve got just the thing. Chances are you already have a pair of trusty earrings you wear each day, but we could all do with an upgrade and what is better than a fresh take on a classic?
The hoop earring has been a staple in fashion and accessories for as long as we can remember, whether as delicate pairs from childhood or the name-engraved bamboo earrings popularized by Black women in the ’hood. Hoop earrings are endlessly versatile; they go with everything, they can be dressed up or down, and come in different sizes with the potential for various details to be added on to make them stand out.
Whether you prefer classic and simple styles or sculptural hoops that make a bold style statement, we’ve selected three pairs that will flatter any face, including yours.
Detail Drop Earrings by Chalk Jewellery
Shop the Detail Drop Earrings
Inspired by the work of Italian architect Carlo Scarpa and his modernist masterpiece La Tomba Brion, the Detail Drop Earrings by London-based Chalk Jewellery are hoops but not as you know it. This is not surprising when you consider that founder Malaika Carr was a practicing architect before she founded Chalk. The high-shine earrings have an oval shape with geometric edges and are available in both 18k gold and sterling silver. They are deceptively lightweight and will enliven everything from denim in daytime to a little black dress after dark.
Dash Hoops by SOKO
Shop the Dash Hoops
With the Dash Hoops, Nairobi-based accessories brand SOKO has taken the simple curved shape of the hoop and elevated it to iconic status. The minimalist pair features an open-ended design that forms a coiled silhouette that threads through the earlobe. Made from recycled gold-plated brass, the Dash earrings are the handiwork of Kenyan artisans using traditional techniques. Modern and versatile, they’ll look chic whether layered with other pairs or as a standalone piece.
Prizm Drop Earrings by Third Crown
Shop the Prizm Drop Earrings
The Prizm Drop Earrings by New York-based accessories brand Third Crown are a fresh take on a classic. They are crafted from 18k gold-plated brass, and they feature two spheres that interlink to form an elegant yet bold drop design. The larger link features a bevelled surface detail – a brand signature – which lends it a sophisticated touch. Make it your everyday earrings to add a statement piece to your daily look.