Dangle earrings, also called drop earrings and chandelier style earrings, can vary greatly in their design, length and weight, from subtle teardrop shaped earrings that extend just barely below earlobe to those long swinging dangly earrings that practically brush the tops of the shoulders. Studs and dangle earrings are both appropriate for casual and dressy occasions, but there are a few simple guidelines that will help you pick the best pair of earrings for the job. Your face shape, hairstyle, clothing choice and the type of event itself may all come into play.
Flatter your Face
First consider your face shape. Round and square-shaped faces, or those that are as wide or almost as wide as they are long, will benefit from long, dangly earrings to elongate the face and neck. Adding hoops and other rounded shapes will help square faces in particular by softening those hard angles, while angular earrings will help add some dimension to round faces. Those with heart-shaped faces (wider foreheads or cheekbones and narrow chins), also look great sporting dangly earrings, just as long as they are wider at the bottom to balance out a narrow jaw line, like teardrop or pear-shaped dangle earrings. For those with long, slender faces, it's generally best to stick to shorter earrings like studs or wide dangle earrings that aren't too long. If you have an oval face, congratulations, you can pretty much wear any shape earring for a flattering look!
Up-do or Down?
Hairstyle is the next consideration, especially if you have long hair that can be worn up or down. Generally speaking, up-do's like ponytails, high buns and twists call for dangle earrings to balance out the height and provide an elegant swing and movement to accentuate the neck, while hair-down styles demand studs and short earrings that won't get all caught up in your hair. But of course there are exceptions to every rule, and depending on how formal or fancy the occasion, you may want to do a bit of experimenting. A casual, every day ponytail for example, doesn't demand quite the same extravagance as a styled up-do fit for a wedding or formal event. A pair of simple studs or subtle drop earrings can look just as appropriate with an up-do as a pair of long dangles. Obviously if you're going to be doing anything active or the situation calls for something conservative, a pair of studs is a reliable classic. And dangle earrings don't always have to limited to up-do's. Loose, long flowing hairstyles can also look great when paired with long dangle earrings, especially if you're going for a chic bohemian vibe.
Obviously these are loose guidelines, and don't forget that when it comes to fashion and accessories, rule-breakers are often trend setters. The only way to know for sure what style you prefer will be to try out as many designs as you can to see which best complements your facial features, hairstyle, outfit, and mood!