Tassel earrings have exploded in popularity this summer because of their bold color choices and lightweight materials. Most often made from strands of silk, wool cotton, or raffia (you know, the palm tree fibers used to make hula skirts and the like), tassel earrings are an easy way to transform any look. They were inspired by many a fashion milestone, including the layered textures of flapper dresses and the vibrant fringe worn on any 1970's hippie.
I found myself fascinated by the look, but when I went to the store to buy a pair, I couldn't find what I had envisioned. When you're shopping, especially for accessories, I think it's super important to have a vision. I was looking for something similar to the J. Crew style below, but in a more vibrant color. Riffling through a bunch of beaded options and a few geometric hoops with fringing in what I felt to be odd places, I ended up leaving the store defeated because I felt like I couldn't find exactly what I was looking for, but more importantly because I felt like I wasn't sure how to wear these earrings.
How long should the fringe be? Would this earring style sit weird or end up sticking out too far? I left thinking "I need a style guide for this." And so, here I am, creating a lil' style guide for tassel earrings.
Summer time is tassel time. Hoop tassels - long tassels - short tassels - bright tassels - neutral tassels. Any way you look at it, they're the only accessory you need to class up a summer outfit, whether it's a sundress or a pair of shorts and a t-shirt.
I found myself fascinated by the look, but when I went to the store to buy a pair, I couldn't find what I had envisioned. When you're shopping, especially for accessories, I think it's super important to have a vision. I was looking for something similar to the J. Crew style below, but in a more vibrant color. Riffling through a bunch of beaded options and a few geometric hoops with fringing in what I felt to be odd places, I ended up leaving the store defeated because I felt like I couldn't find exactly what I was looking for, but more importantly because I felt like I wasn't sure how to wear these earrings.
How long should the fringe be? Would this earring style sit weird or end up sticking out too far? I left thinking "I need a style guide for this." And so, here I am, creating a lil' style guide for tassel earrings.
What can you wear tassel earrings with?
You can wear this trend with any outfit, sans your PJs. Whether you're going out for brunch or headed to the office, tassel earrings are an easy way to create interest in any look. To ensure you don't overdo your look, consider the outfit you've put together. Does it feature a lot of bright colors or loud patterns? Opt for a simple earring to avoid becoming a walking distraction. If you're wearing a lot of neutrals, incorporate a pop of color with tassel earrings. If you're wearing the opposite, a neutrally colored tassel will create interest without taking away from your clothing color choices. For a fancy night out, tassel earrings that feature some sort of metallic or gemstone can elevate your look while still staying on trend.
How long should the tassel be?
There's really no requirement when it comes to length in this case (LOL). You can find tassel earrings in a variety of lengths, so it boils down to personal preference. I prefer the tassel to sit just above the shoulder, but in conducting some research for this post, I don't hate the fanned out tassel style (below).
What if the tassels stick out too far?
Again, this is personal preference, but when I tried on some of the fanned tassel earrings, I felt like they made my facial features appear wider. In other words, certain styles can sit oddly against your face, which can cause your hair to be pushed out to the side, widening your face. This is an issue for me, and why I'm steering clear of this style.
How much do tassel earrings cost?
As with any jewelry, you can find tassel earrings at a range of price points. Shop Target. Charming Charlie, or Etsy for tassel earrings anywhere from $4-$30. Luxury brands like Kate Spade and Uncommon James will put you out about $40-$60. In my hunt, I also saw some exuberantly priced options (like, $350), but come on. But they do exist!Summer time is tassel time. Hoop tassels - long tassels - short tassels - bright tassels - neutral tassels. Any way you look at it, they're the only accessory you need to class up a summer outfit, whether it's a sundress or a pair of shorts and a t-shirt.
