JEWELRY GUIDE
Gold-plated hoop earrings: how to choose them (size, shape, style)
Timeless, feminine and easy to wear, gold-plated hoop earrings are among the most desired pieces of jewelry
. But between the diameters, the thicknesses, the hammered or
twisted finishes, the XXL or ultra-discreet versions, it is sometimes difficult to find your way around.
This Ylume expert guide will accompany you step by step to find the ideal, durable and
bright pair, perfectly suited to your style, your morphology and your daily life.
At Ylume, the gilding used is an 18-carat 3 micron gold plate,
champagne-colored, RJC-certified and nickel-free, lead and cadmium-free. This is the guarantee of a
beautiful fit and impeccable comfort on a daily basis.
Why choose 18k gold plated hoop earrings – 3 μ ?
The 3 micron 18k gold plating brings together the best of both worlds: the warm shine
of gold and excellent strength at a low price. The thickness of 3 μ
(microns) guarantees a long-lasting gilding in the face of friction and everyday gestures
. The slightly pink Ylume champagne shade brings a singular elegance
that goes just as well with a minimalist white shirt as with a sunny summer dress
.
- Radiance and visual softness thanks to the matte champagne color.
- Comfort : our jewelry is nickel, lead and cadmium free.
- Durability : 3 μ = superior resistance to fine gilding.
- Ethical : RJC certified gold, reusable packaging.
Choosing the right size : the diameter guide
The size of a hoop hoop is measured by its diameter (in millimeters) and its
thickness (thinness of the ring). The right choice balances your body type,
haircut and wearing occasion. Here is a simple table to guide you.
| Diameter | Style & effect | For whom? | Opportunities |
|---|---|---|---|
| 12–18 mm | Discreet, chic, “enhanced nail” | Can replace chips in the office, thin | Daily, minimalism, multi-piercing build-up |
| 20–28 mm | Balanced, all-purpose | All body types, first pair to own | From the office to dinner, casual chic outfit |
| 30–38 mm | Assertive presence, femininity | Oval/round faces, medium to long | Evening, Event, Flowing Dress |
| 40–50 mm | Statement, glamour | Angular/oval faces, solo (without a large necklace) | Special occasions, clean looks |
one for multi-context daily use, the larger one for an “event” pair.
Choose the shape : round, oval, twisted, hammered…
The shape varies the personality of the hoop: the simpler your ring, the more versatile it is
; the more textured it is, the more it asserts a style. Here are the main options and
how to wear them.
Classic rounds
They are a must-have, and go with everything. With a smooth finish, they
accompany strong pieces (necklace, medal, ring, sculpture) without weighing them down. They
are ideal in 20–30 mm for a chic everyday look.
Ovals
The oval discreetly elongates the face and adds a couture touch. It goes
particularly well with tied hair and V-necklines. Very beautiful in
25–35 mm for a modern balance.
Twisted / Roped
The relief captures the light and gives rhythm without falling into excess. To be preferred if
you want a unique pair but still easy to combine. Sublime with the matte champagne color
Ylume.
Hammered
Organic texture, solar spirit. The hammering is reminiscent of the craftsmanship and natural elements
dear to Ylume. Ideal for highlighting a bohemian chic or Mediterranean style.
With gemstones
A touch of colour and symbolism: mother-of-pearl (softness),
onyx (character), quartz (clarity),
labradorite (mysterious reflections)… Prefer a medium diameter (20–30 mm)
to balance the presence of the pendant.
Mini hoop earrings / huggies
They “kiss” the lobe. Perfect as a very discreet first pair or as a
accumulation with other piercings. Absolute comfort in everyday life.
Which style for which occasion ?
The Creole is a chameleon. By adjusting three parameters — size, texture, shine — you
can cover all times of the week.
Office & business appointments
- Diameter 18–24 mm, thin to medium thickness, smooth or
subtly hammered finish. - Hair tied up: opt for the oval for a slender effect.
- Avoid oversize if you already wear a large medallion necklace.
Afterwork & outings
- Diameter 26–34 mm, twisted or hammered textures that reflect the
light of the end of the day. - Pair with a shorter
medallion chain for a balanced layering.
Events & Ceremonies
- Diameter 36–48 mm if the outfit is refined, or 28–34 mm with
fine stone pendants if the dress is worked. - The Ylume matte champagne versions photograph wonderfully — a plus
for your memories.
statement, keep the necklace minimalist and vice versa.
Hoop earrings & facial morphology
Although all women can wear all hoop earrings, some choices naturally enhance
the features. Here’s a quick guide.
- Round face : Opt for oval shapes or medium diameters
(24–32 mm) for elongation. Avoid XXL hoop earrings that are too wide. - Oval face : you can dare anything. The 20–34 mm is the
daily “sweet spot”. - Square/angular face : Soften the lines with smooth or hammered round
hoop earrings, in 26–36mm. - Heart-shaped face : prefer medium hoop earrings, slightly wider at the
bottom (oval), which balance the upper face.
Hair & Necklines
- Long hair : Use 26–36 mm to keep the hoop earrings visible.
- Short / tied hair : enhance the nape of the neck with hammered or twisted textures
. - V-neck : oval or medium round; open jacket :
24–30 mm smooth; turtleneck : 30–40 mm to clear the face.
Skin color, makeup & champagne finish
Ylume champagne gilding has the particularity of flattering all skin tones. On fair
skin it warms the complexion without too much contrast; on dark to dark skin it brings a
soft light, less “yellow” than some shiny gilding.
- Natural makeup : smooth finish, small to medium diameter.
- Smoky eyes or red lips : twisted/hammered texts for an
elegant relief. - Gemstones : mother-of-pearl illuminates, onyx contrasts,
quartz softens.
Comfort, closure and quality: the criteria that change everything
- Weight : a well-made hoop earrings remain light; The 3 μ gold-plated brass +
alloy offers an excellent hold-to-weight ratio. - Closure system : sleeper, “click” hinge or rod +
fastener. Ylume hoop earrings favor secure and comfortable clasps. - Hypoallergenic : nickel, lead and cadmium free to respect
sensitive skin. - Finish : cleaned edges, even texture, fluid hinge,
uniform champagne color gilding.
Compose your looks: hoop earrings & overlays
Creoles live very well alone. But they love the company of
fine chains and sculptural rings. Here are 3 simple ideas to reproduce.
- Minimal chic : 16–18mm mini hoop earrings + fine
choker necklace + textured gold ring. Perfect for everyday use. - Sunglasses : hammered hoop earrings 28–32 mm + medallion necklace
STARS + Bangle Bracelet. Ideal for summer evenings. - Statement : large hoop earrings 40–45 mm + bare cuffs + single ring
. Refined outfit (shirt, plain dress).
Want to go further? Discover our selection of
hoop earrings and compose your
set with our bangles and
necklaces.
Care & durability: prolong the shine of your hoop earrings
- Avoid repeated contact with perfumes, lotions, and solvents.
- Remove them for the shower, pool andsea
to preserve the 3 μ gilding. - Store them in a separate, dry, clean pouch .
- Clean with a soft chamois , without abrasives.
For more tips, visit our page
Maintenance of gold-plated jewelry.
5 common mistakes to avoid
- Choosing too large for everyday use: choose 20–28 mm as your
first versatile pair. - Accumulate XXL hoop earrings + imposing necklace + voluminous hairstyle: leave
a star piece. - Forget about comfort : check the clasp and weight, especially if you have
sensitive lobes. - Neglect maintenance : chlorinated and salt water quickly tarnish the
gilding. - Ignore your body type : Oval round lines, soften corners
with curves.
Getting started: the ideal hoop kit
If you want to cover 95% of situations with three cleverly chosen pairs,
We recommend:
- Smooth 16–18mm mini hoop earrings — daily base and multi-piercings.
- 26–30 mm twisted or hammered hoop earrings — femininity and light.
- Smooth 38–42 mm hoop earrings — statement silhouette for parties.
Find these styles in our
In the Hoop Earrings category and let yourself be guided
by the signature champagne colour Ylume.
FAQ — Gold Plated Hoops
- Are Ylume hoop earrings suitable for sensitive skin?
- Yes. Our jewelry is nickel, lead and cadmium free for optimal comfort
, even during prolonged wear. - Can you wear hoop earrings in the shower?
- We advise against it. To preserve the 3 micron gilding, remove
your hoop earrings before the shower, the pool and the sea. - What size should I start with?
- A smooth or lightly textured 20–28mm pair is the most timeless option for everyday wear.
- How do I clean my hoop earrings?
- Use a soft, dry chamois. Avoid abrasive products.
- Are XXL hoop earrings heavy?
- Ylume models are designed to remain light and comfortable to wear;
If you are sensitive, choose a diameter < 36 mm or a thin thickness
.
Ready to find your perfect pair?
Explore Ylume’s selection of gold-plated hoop earrings
, pair them with our medallion necklaces
and bangle bracelets to create
a sunny, durable and incredibly easy to wear set.
