VOGUE UNIVERSITY JOURNALS

Shopping for the Perfect Hoop Earrings

Whether you’re shopping for a pair of hoop earrings online or at a traditional brick and mortar location, there are a few things you need to know before you open up your wallet and hand over your hard-earned cash. First and foremost on our list of tips, not all hoops are created equal.

When we think of hoop earrings, the classically styled, circular ring pops into your head, usually with a contemporary lever-back or snap-back closure for a secure fastening. Recent years have expanded the hoop earring selection to include squared and other misshapen designs, dangling adornments and double/triple drop hoop styles to tickle the fancy of even the most finicky consumer. Keep your mind open, as well as your eyes, for a completely new view of this much-needed piece for every jewelry box.

If you’re shopping for a more conservative pair of earrings, you can never go wrong with solid gold hoop earrings, large or small, broad or thin. Every woman should have at least one quality pair of gold hoops, as they can coordinate with any wardrobe choice. From jeans and a sweater for a day at the mall, to work attire for the big meeting with the new client, evening wear for any night on the town, and every possible option in between, classic gold hoops are a definite must-have for any woman.

You can’t forget about the simple variations of this time-honored style, including white gold hoop earrings. Some ladies just don’t like yellow gold. White gold is comparable in color to sterling silver, but offers the prestige synonymous with gold itself.

Embellishments are another fine point of interest when shopping for hoop earrings, and an important one to boot. Since diamonds have been known to be “A Girl’s Best Friend”, imagine where the ranking of diamond hoop earrings would place on the scale! Diamond hoops are available in all shapes and sizes, and in yellow and white gold. Tiny diamond-chip accents around the circumference, along the outside edge, or diamonds totaling a full carat on the inside and outside edges are just a few decisions necessary when shopping for this illustrious item.

Finally, the karat of gold is an important factor in your hoop earring purchase. From 10K to 24K (with 10 being the lowest grade, but the highest level of strength and 24 being the higher grade, but the softest in strength), your budget usually dictates the metal of choice. From tiny to large hoop earrings, you can rest assured that any gift hand-picked personally by you will be cherished by the receiver for years to come.

Fran Del Sordo
FASHION DIRECTOR
ARTICLE DIRECTOR



More information about
Fashion Jewelry
Let's see ... do I need color or glitter? Or both? Self-expression is the fun part of fashion, and when your outfit needs that extra spark that takes it from merely acceptable to fabulous, you reach for fashion accessories and jewelry. Wearing fashion jewelry is a great way of adding a little color, pattern and texture to your wardrobe; in addition, fashion necklaces, bangles and earrings let you express your individuality while following (or bucking) the style trends. Luckily, you've found me!

You can contact me directly and for free I will give you the best style tips in fashion jewelry today. You can call me at 610 579 3888 for the east coast and 213 596 5995 for the west coast. ( I am here from noon to 3:00pm EST)

Fashion jewelry includes the must-have styles of the moment; however, it may also reflect bohemian flair or vintage designs that outlast contemporary trends. This jewelry is the updated version of what used to be called "costume jewelry" and includes many of the popular brands found in department stores. The main difference between fine jewelry and fashion jewelry is the materials and thus, the price. Fine jewelry is made of precious metals, diamonds and gemstones while fashion jewelry is made of wood, glass, resin, ceramics, plastic and anything else that can be fashioned into jewelry -- it is only limited by the artist's imagination.
Maybe a big yellow bangle would brighten that dress. It's your choice, and that's fashion jewelry's best asset. You can mix and match it and wear it with all your casual clothes and even with some of your dressy clothes with a little experimentation and daring. Don't shy away from styles and colors you've never tried. You may find that you look spectacular in colorful beads.
Shop for new fashion jewelry every time you update your wardrobe or need some extra spice in your look. Fashion jewelry is meant to be affordable, and the prices are even better then ever.

After experiencing my great advise and great customer service, you'll want to update often.

A.J. HUNTER
FASHION DIRECTOR