Which ear is the gay ear for earrings

The idea of a "gay earring" based on which ear it's worn in is a stereotype that became popular in the 1980s and 1990s.

According to this outdated belief, wearing an earring in the right ear signified being gay, while the left ear was considered straight. Check out these trending earring styles that are blowing up on everyone's feed. 

Huggie Hoop Earrings: Thinner than the average hoops, huggie earrings are designed petite and close-fitting to “hug” the earlobe.

Back then, open discussions about sexual orientation weren’t as accepted, which is why various subtle cues were created for discreet communication, including the Hanky Code (wearing colored handkerchiefs in the back pocket), keys on a belt loop, colored bandanas/armbands, and gay ear piercings.

Today's POV: What the Internet Thinks of Which Ear Is the Gay Ear

Despite its unclear origins and the lack of universal agreement, the "gay ear" concept still echoes as an informal part of gay culture–at least historically.

But when Harry Styles does it . "This world is so f*cked up; any sense of comfort in the form of subliminal messaging or outward expression for LGBTQIA+ people goes a long way when it comes to feeling seen."

Recent cultural forecasts are spot on with their predictions, too. But thankfully, they're still a great vehicle for self-expression.

Preparation, Cost, and Healing

Just like with getting any piercing, there's some important preparation to do before getting a pierced ear.

And just like with hoop earrings, dangling earrings might not be acceptable at all jobs or events.

Most experienced piercers recommend that you start out with studs. But the whole "gay ear" thing has always been ironic, considering its ever-changing position throughout history. Maybe the right ear versus the left ear was less about sexuality than it was about attitude.

The term "gay ear" was often used. Let’s unpack the debate: Which ear is the gay ear? 

Nowadays, there are more people with piercings than without, as Statista’s data indicates that over half of the U.S. population have at least their earlobes pierced. Essentially, since so many people have piercings now, ear piercings aren't the reliable indicator of sexual orientation that they once were.

It started many years ago when people tried to find simple signs about others’ lives. It is hypoallergenic, and the silver color will not wear off, as it does with some cheaper earrings made with coated metals. (China has since banned men's earrings outright.)

Casting director and industry stalwart James Scully remembers his first encounter with the phenomenon, in the late '70s.

Twisting the piercing a couple of times daily will also discourage the piercing from closing.

Going Forward

If you've considered going for a gay earring (or really, any ear piercing at all), we hope that you now have the information you need to choose the right jewelry and piercing type. Further down, we go into more detail on how to care for your piercing as it heals.

How to Choose Gay Earrings?

Often, starter studs used for first-time piercings will be fairly straightforward when it comes to style.

Look for jewelry with a higher proportion of gold (higher karat value), as these earrings will be less likely to irritate your skin.

Silver - Silver is a great choice of fine metal for earrings. How to Wear It?