Quick answer
- Men have worn earrings for thousands of years, across many cultures.
- The old idea that one ear means you're gay is a myth; today it means nothing beyond personal style.
- Best starter styles for guys with earrings: small studs, huggies and simple hoops.
- One ear or both is purely a style choice.
Guys with earrings are nothing new. Men have worn earrings across many cultures for thousands of years, from ancient civilizations to Elizabethan portraits to today's athletes and musicians. If you're thinking about getting pierced or upgrading your studs, here's a quick history, the styles that work best, and the truth about which ear "means" what.
A short history of men wearing earrings
Earrings have been worn by men in many ancient societies, including in the Near East, Persia, South Asia and parts of Africa, often as a sign of status, identity or belief. In many cultures the habit never really stopped.
In Elizabethan England, earrings were fashionable for men of means. Well-known portraits of Sir Walter Raleigh show him with a pearl earring, and the Chandos portrait long associated with Shakespeare shows a gold hoop. Sailors are also linked with earrings in popular folklore, though many of the stories about why are more legend than documented fact.
In the 20th century, earrings on men became tied to subcultures like punk, rock and hip-hop, and then went mainstream through musicians and athletes. Today you'll see them on everyone from office workers to pro athletes.
That long history is worth remembering if anyone tells you earrings are "new" for men. If anything, the decades when men mostly skipped earrings are the exception. Musicians like David Bowie and Harry Styles have kept playing with the idea, and our David Bowie earrings page looks at one of the boldest examples.
The left ear vs right ear myth
You may have heard that a piercing in one ear signals something about sexuality. This "rule" circulated in some places in the late 20th century, and different versions even contradicted each other about which ear meant what.
It's a myth. Today, which ear you pierce says nothing except where you wanted an earring. Plenty of men wear a single earring on either side, both ears, or multiple piercings, purely for style.
One earring or two is a style choice, nothing more. A single small hoop reads as relaxed; matching studs read as polished. Mismatched ears are welcome here too.
Best earring styles for guys
| Style | Vibe | Good for |
|---|---|---|
| Small studs (3–5 mm) | Clean, minimal | Work, first piercing, everyday |
| Diamond or CZ studs (5–8 mm) | Sharp, a bit flashy | Nights out, streetwear |
| Huggie hoops | Modern, subtle | Daily wear, a step up from studs |
| Small hoops (10–14 mm) | Relaxed, classic | Casual looks, single-ear wear |
| Cross or chain drops | Edgy, statement | Rock, streetwear, going out |
| Black or matte studs | Understated, graphic | Minimal wardrobes |
If sizes are hard to picture, our 5mm actual-size guide shows a classic men's stud to scale. For bolder looks, see dangling cross earrings for men.
Wearing one earring or two?
- One ear: a single stud or hoop feels relaxed and a little rebellious. Pick whichever side shows more when you part your hair.
- Both ears: matching studs look balanced and intentional, especially with short hair.
- Mixed: a stud on one side and a small hoop on the other is a modern, curated move.
- Cartilage: a single helix stud or hoop adds edge without going big.
Earrings and dress codes
Most workplaces are relaxed about small studs and huggies on anyone. Some jobs with safety rules, like kitchens, construction or certain uniforms, may limit dangling jewelry, so check your policy before you buy a statement piece.
- Office: small studs or slim huggies in metal that matches your watch.
- Formal events: a pair of diamond or CZ studs, or a single small hoop.
- Sports: take earrings out for contact sports, and follow league rules.
Many guys start with one lobe and add more later. A second lobe piercing or a single cartilage stud is a natural next step once the first has healed.
Getting pierced and choosing metal
Go to a professional piercer, ideally an APP member, rather than a mall piercing gun. Ask for implant-grade titanium or solid 14k gold or higher for the starter jewelry. Lobes typically heal in about 6–8 weeks, though it can take longer; cartilage usually takes several months or more.
Standard lobe earrings are usually 20g or 18g; see what gauge regular earrings are. After healing, stick with titanium, surgical steel, sterling silver or solid gold. Persistent redness, swelling, heat or discharge is a reason to see a doctor.
Styling tips for guys with earrings
Match your earring metal to your watch, rings or chain. Keep studs proportional to your face and frame: tiny studs can disappear on a broad face, and huge rocks can overwhelm a slim one. Start small, wear it a few weeks, and size up if you want more presence.
Frequently asked questions
What does it mean when a guy wears an earring in one ear?
Nothing beyond personal style. The idea that left or right ear signals sexuality is an outdated myth.
What earrings look best on guys?
Small studs, diamond or CZ studs, huggies and small hoops are the most versatile. Cross drops and chains suit bolder styles.
Should men wear earrings in both ears?
It's entirely a style choice. One earring feels relaxed, matching pairs look polished, and mixed styles feel modern.
How long does a men's ear piercing take to heal?
Lobe piercings typically take about 6–8 weeks or more, while cartilage takes several months or longer. A professional piercer can advise on your case.
