Somewhere between shoulder-grazing chandelier earrings and subtle studs, drop earrings are the new accessory du jour for stylish starlets like Emmy Rossum and Jennifer Lawrence. But these pretty baubles aren't only suitable for the red carpet and black-tie affairs. Thankfully, today's drop earrings come in variations that are appropriate for both the boardroom and after-hours cocktails. They lend your look some playfulness--a step up from classic yet serious studs--without overwhelming your outfit; the key is to wear them with the appropriate hairstyle and a bare neckline, the better to showcase your new glittering gems. Read on to see who's wearing drop earrings, then shop our favourite picks below.

On Celebrities

WHO: Jessica Chastain

WHAT: Arriving at the Broadway play The Heiress in New York last month.

WEAR: Amrita Singh East Hampton Earrings ($75) in Turquoise.

WHY: Bright turquoise stones add a dash of colour and instantly perk up your outfit.

WHO: Amber Heard

WHAT: Attending The Art of Elysium 6th Annual Black Tie Gala in Los Angeles.

WEAR: Brumani White Vintage Gold Earrings with Diamonds, Black and Smoky Quartz ($2904).

WHY: Bring attention to understated yet stunning drop earrings with a swept-back updo.

WHO: Teresa Palmer

WHAT: Posing on the red carpet at a Golden Globe party in Beverly Hills.

WEAR: Adeler Black Onyx Drop Earrings ($3,997).

WHY: Jet-black baubles--paired with carefully coiffed waves--exude a subtly chic allure.

WHO: Emmy Rossum

WHAT: At the 18th Annual Critics' Choice Movie Awards in Los Angeles in January.

WEAR: Sutra 18K Blackened Gold Smoky Agate and Moonstone Earrings with Diamonds ($11000).

WHY: Smoky stones create a dramatic statement without overshadowing your ensemble.

WHO: Jennifer Lawrence

WHAT: Also attending the Critics' Choice Movie Awards.

WEAR: Chopard Fancy-Cut White Diamond Chandelier Earrings (price upon request, 800.CHOPARD).

WHY: Channel old Hollywood glamour in a pair of classic and sophisticated sparklers.

WHO: Hilary Rhoda

WHAT: Catching the season two premiere of Girls in New York last month.

WEAR: Dannijo Lovisa Earrings ($445).

WHY: Add visual intrigue to your going-out look in the form of supersized vintage-inspired earrings.

On You

Now that we've talked your ears off about this latest accessory trend, you're finally ready to snag a pair--or two--of drop earrings. Subtle For a timeless option, look no further than Oscar de la Renta's 24-Karat Gold-Plated Swarovski Crystal Clip Earrings ($375). The geometric baubles come in understated colours appropriate for the office, yet transition easily for drinks with friends. We also suggest Juliet & Company's Juliet & Company Plume Noir Earrings ($50) in Black, a versatile pair that will go with everything in your closet. Statement-Making If your sensibilities are a tad bolder, check out Erdem's Exclusive to MyTheresa.com Crystal Bead Drop Earrings ($364). The clusters of multicolored crystals perfectly complement a party dress, or help to jazz up your favourite t-shirt and jeans. ASOS' Bird Doorknocker Earrings ($44) are a fun choice as well; they will add a playful element to your going-out look paired with swept-back hair and an equally bright blouse.

Maxine Eggenberger
Deputy Editor

Maxine Eggenberger is Who What Wear UK’s deputy editor and has over twelve years of experience in fashion journalism. She been creating engaging and elevated style content for Who What Wear UK since 2018, covering runway reports, emerging trends, long-form features, self-styled shopping stories, and columns, including her edit of the best new-in buys. She ensures the highest editorial standards are met across the site, works closely with influencer talent on content initiatives, represents the brand at industry events, and regularly contributes to social media. Previously, Maxine appeared on TV in her own fashion segment and has interviewed countless celebrities—everyone from Victoria Beckham to Oscar winner Lupita Nyong’o. 


Prior to Who What Wear UK, Maxine’s career began when, after completing her first-ever internship, she was offered a position on the Look magazine fashion desk. She accepted, leaving university a year early in the process. She went on to become the title's fashion news and commercial content editor, with a stint as InStyle.co.uk’s fashion writer along the way. She later served as Look’s acting Editor in Chief before embarking on a successful freelance career, working with Grazia, The Pool, and Marie Claire amongst others. Maxine works remotely from her countryside home near Edinburgh.