Huggie vs Hoop Earrings: What's the Difference?

A huggie is a small hoop that sits close to the earlobe. "Hoop" is the broader word for any circle-shaped earring, from tiny to oversized. So every huggie is a hoop, but not every hoop is a huggie.

What is a huggie earring?

The name comes from the fit: a huggie hugs the lobe. It is small, usually a little thick so it keeps its shape, and it sits snug instead of hanging down. Some are plain bands. Others have a twist, small stones or a tiny charm.

Huggie vs hoop: how they compare

• Size: huggies are small and close to the ear. Hoops run from small to large.
• Fit: a huggie sits against the lobe. A larger hoop hangs below it and moves when you do.
• Look: a huggie is a detail. A big hoop is the statement.
• Pairing: huggies sit well next to studs or in a second piercing. A large hoop usually works best on its own.

Can you wear huggie earrings all the time?

Many people wear a small hoop every day, because it is compact and goes with almost anything. Comfort is personal, so go by how they feel on you. Take them off before showering, swimming or exercising, as with the rest of our jewelry. Our care guide explains why.

How to wear huggies

1. One piercing: wear a single huggie and let it be the detail.
2. Two piercings: pair a huggie with a small stud on the lobe above or below.
3. Three piercings: use two huggies and a stud, and keep the finishes matching, either all gold-tone or all silver-tone.
4. With a statement top: if your neckline or necklace is busy, choose a plain huggie.

Our huggie-style hoops

These are some of the huggie-style pieces in our huggie earrings collection:

• The Starburst Mini Hoops: chunky, gold-tone and textured, with tiny star, moon and clear-stone details.
• The Moon Star Mini Hoops: small gold-color hoops with moon and star details, listed as S925 silver.
• The Pink Amore Hoops: silver-tone with a twisted, beaded-look band and a small pink heart stone.

Prefer a stud to wear beside them? See our stud earrings. Want a bigger shape? Try the chunky earrings. Or browse all earrings.

Frequently asked questions

What does huggie mean?

It describes how the earring fits. It hugs the earlobe instead of hanging below it.

Are huggies the same as small hoops?

Mostly. "Small hoop" and "huggie" are used almost interchangeably. Huggies are the ones that sit snug against the lobe.

How do I care for huggie earrings?

Wipe them with a soft cloth after wearing, keep them away from harsh chemicals and store them in a dry place.

Looking for bigger sizes or plain studs? See gold hoop earrings: sizes and how to choose and stud earrings: types, sizes and earring backs.