Ear cuffs, ranging from simple gold or silver hoops around the helix to elaborate designs shaped like snakes or peacocks, have become a popular jewellery trend in Bengaluru. Seen across various age groups, especially among Gen Z and millennials, ear cuffs are quickly becoming a fashion statement. Image consultant Bia Sandhu explains, “It’s been trending for about a year, particularly among women who want to make a unique style statement. They are popular because they look funky and offer a distinct sense of individuality, without being uncomfortable depending on the style.”
The rise of ear cuffs has caught the attention of a wide range of jewellery creators. Online platforms, local handmade jewellery businesses, and major brands like Tarun Tahiliani, Tanishq, and Mellora now feature ear cuffs in their collections. Divya Batra, founder of Quirksmith, a well-known handcrafted silver jewellery brand, points out a shift in the Indian market. “A few years ago, ear cuffs weren’t as accessible for casual wear, like to the airport or for daily use. Today, you can find all kinds – big, small, gold-plated, traditional, and modern ear cuffs.”
This trend doesn’t come out of nowhere. Ear cuffs have a rich history across various cultures. The ‘Kaffa,’ a type of ear accessory, has been discovered in British burial sites dating back to 4,300 BC. Ancient Greek aristocrats wore similar pieces, and ear cuffs can also be seen in Indian temple carvings. Sandhu shares, “It is said that Cleopatra, who loved jewellery, also wore ear cuffs as part of her collection.” The trend is not just influenced by history but also by Hollywood. Celebrities like Ananya Panday, Margot Robbie, Hailey Bieber, and Cynthia Erivo have been spotted wearing ear cuffs on red carpets, reviving this age-old accessory. “Fashion comes back every 20-30 years. In the ’50s, stars like Marilyn Monroe were seen wearing them,” Sandhu adds.
Ear cuffs are no longer just for women. Non-binary entrepreneur Aryan Gulati, who uses them to explore different styles, says, “At first, I wore minimal ear cuffs while going out in college and to work. Over time, as I became more comfortable with my identity, I began experimenting with more dramatic designs like an elf ear-shaped cuff, which I was inspired to try from reading fantasy literature.”
The convenience of ear cuffs also plays a role in their popularity, as they don’t require piercings. Alina Ajmal, a 22-year-old content strategist, explains, “I first saw ear cuffs while watching K-Pop. Some stars wear them without getting their ears pierced, and they look incredibly real. I wanted multiple piercings, but I have issues with infections. Ear cuffs give me the same look without the risk.”
Tips for Beginners
For those new to ear cuffs, Divya Batra offers a key piece of advice: “Avoid symmetry. I recommend not wearing ear cuffs as a pair. This is more comfortable, especially if you need to take a call and want one ear free. When you wear an ear cuff on just one side, it creates an asymmetrical look, making a unique style statement that’s unexpectedly appealing.”
In Bengaluru, ear cuffs have become much more than just jewellery – they’re a way to express personality, experiment with style, and embrace a versatile accessory that’s both modern and rooted in history.
Related topics:
- TEFAF Maastricht Opens with Strong Attendance and Notable New Exhibitors
- Exhibition Showcases Ancient Kazakh Jewelry and Manuscripts
- NCT’s Mark Becomes Brand Ambassador for Luxury Jewelry House Boucheron
