We understand that earrings come in a wide variety of clasps and finishes, and if you haven’t worn a particular style before, it can definitely be a little confusing at first. Whether you’re shopping for your very first pair of statement hoops or looking to gift something special to a loved one, knowing how different earring backings work can make all the difference in choosing the right pair for comfort and ease of wear. That’s where we come in—we’re here to help you navigate all the beautiful options with confidence!
From classic butterfly backs to sleek lever clasps and versatile huggie-style closures, we’ll walk you through the most common types of earring fastenings, explain how each one works, and give you tips on which styles are best suited for different occasions or preferences. So, if you’re unsure what that little hinge does, how to secure your hoops, or which clasp is the easiest to wear day-to-day, keep reading—we’ve got you covered!
The Stud Stud earrings are by far the most common and beginner-friendly style out there, making them a staple in almost every jewellery collection. Known for their simplicity and comfort, studs are perfect for everyday wear and suit just about any outfit or occasion—from casual brunches to formal events.
To wear them, all you need to do is remove the backing from the post (that’s the straight part of the earring), gently push the post through your pierced ear from the front, and then slide the backing onto the post from behind your ear until it sits snugly against your earlobe. The backing keeps the earring securely in place throughout the day. It’s quick, easy, and super secure—making this style ideal for anyone who’s always on the go or new to earrings altogether.
The Hook The hook, also known as a fish hook or French hook, is an elegant and flowing earring fastening that adds a delicate touch to any statement piece. This type of clasp is particularly popular for dangle or drop earrings, as it allows the design to swing and catch the light beautifully while you move. At Indie and Harper, we love using hook fastenings on some of our boldest and most eye-catching earrings, giving them a graceful yet effortless finish.
To wear this style, simply slide the curved hook through your earlobe piercing. It should rest comfortably with the curve hanging just behind the ear to keep it in place. For added peace of mind—especially if you're planning a big night out or a day full of movement—you can add a small silicone stopper to the back to ensure it stays put all day. Whether you're styling your hair up to show them off or letting them peek through soft waves, hook earrings are a bohemian favourite and an easy way to elevate any outfit.
The Continuous / Endless Hoop Elegant, minimal, and effortlessly stylish—endless hoops (also known as continuous hoops) are a timeless jewellery staple. They offer a seamless circular finish with no visible clasp, which makes them a popular choice for those who love a sleek, polished look. However, as stunning as they are, endless hoops can be a little tricky to put on—especially if you’re not familiar with their unique fastening mechanism. But don’t worry, we’re here to guide you through it step by step!
First things first: make sure you’re standing in front of a mirror with good lighting. Being able to see what you're doing will make the process a whole lot easier. Each endless hoop is made up of two parts—one is the hollow tube that forms the circular body of the earring, and the other is a thin wire post that clicks or slots into the tube. To open the hoop, gently pull the thin wire post out of the tube. You’ll notice that the post is slightly curved to match the shape of the hoop.
Next, carefully guide the wire post through your piercing. It may feel a little more delicate than other earring types, so take your time and don’t force it. Once the post is all the way through your earlobe, use your mirror to help align it with the open end of the hoop. Gently insert the wire post back into the tube until you feel it sit securely inside—there shouldn't be any movement or gaps if it’s properly in place.
It might take a few tries at first, but once you get the hang of it, endless hoops become a go-to favourite for their lightweight feel and clean, chic look. Perfect for layering, everyday wear, or dressing up an outfit with minimal effort!
The Traditional Clasp / The Sleeper Delicate, timeless, and oh-so-versatile—our dainty hoops often feature what’s known as a traditional clasp, sometimes referred to as a sleeper clasp. This style has been loved for generations thanks to its simple, secure mechanism and classic design. It’s especially popular in lightweight, minimal hoops that you can comfortably wear all day and even sleep in—hence the nickname “sleeper.”
These clasps may be dainty, but they’re designed to hold your earrings securely in place with minimal fuss. However, it’s important to handle them with care, as the fine structure can be more delicate than other fastening styles. To wear this type of hoop, begin by gently opening the clasp. You’ll notice a small hinged wire or hook that lifts up from the body of the hoop—this is the part that goes through your piercing.
Carefully lift the hook upwards to release it from the closure loop. Once open, slide the hoop through your piercing from front to back. Then, using a steady hand (and a mirror, if needed), guide the hook back down and insert it into the small loop or latch to close it. You should feel it click or rest into place snugly, securing the earring comfortably against your ear.
This traditional clasp is ideal for those who love a clean, minimalist look without compromising on security or comfort. It’s especially well-suited for smaller hoops, second or third lobe piercings, or anyone who prefers jewellery they can pop in and forget about. Just remember to treat them gently and they’ll remain a beautiful staple in your collection for years to come.
If you have any further questions about your earrings, please email us sales@indieandharper.com and our sales team will be able to help you with your enquiry!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How do I properly close my Indie and Harper hinged hoop or clicker earring?
Gently push the post through your piercing until you feel it reach the latch, then press until you hear/feel a soft “click.” If it doesn’t click, realign the hinge and try again—don’t force it. A quick wipe to remove lotion or oils can also help the mechanism engage.
2. My I+H hoop won’t stay shut—what’s the quick fix?
First, check alignment: the post should meet the latch straight on. If it’s slightly bent, nudge it back with light pressure using clean fingers or flat jewellery pliers wrapped in cloth. Still loose? Contact our team—most small misalignments are easy to adjust.
3. Can I shower or sleep in my Indie & Harper earrings once they’re closed?
Yes, most of our sterling silver and gold vermeil pieces are fine for everyday wear, but constant moisture and friction can dull the finish over time. We recommend removing them for swimming, heavy workouts, or deep sleep to keep them sparkling longer.
4. What’s the easiest way to tell if my earring is fully closed?
Listen and feel: a secure hoop gives a distinct “click” and won’t wiggle open when gently tugged. If there’s movement or a gap, reopen and close again while looking in a mirror for better alignment.
5. How often should I clean the hinge or clasp on my earrings?
Give the closure a quick clean every couple of wears—wipe with a lint-free cloth or use a mild soap and water solution, then dry thoroughly. Built-up oils or makeup are the top reasons a clasp stops clicking smoothly.
