Cuffs: what they are, how to wear them, what to combine them with, photos, types

Caffa is an ear decoration, unusual and fashionable. The difference between such earrings is their fastening: the decorative part of the cuff extends to the entire ear, and they themselves are attached at one point in the middle or, more often, at two points - above and below. It is believed that ear cuffs originated from India, where they are still widely used and are even considered a traditional wedding decoration.

These jewelry were in fashion in the 60s and 80s, but now they have become even more popular. They are worn by many show business stars, such as Glucose, Angelina Jolie, Miranda Kerr, Charlize Theron, Paris Hilton and others. They also appear on models during shows of leading fashion houses. Often such jewelry is found on heroines of films.

Cuffs can come in different shapes and sizes

Additional piercings are not required to put them on; there are models that can be worn with unpierced ears. Most often, cuffs are worn in one ear; moreover, most models are made so that they can only be worn on a certain side. There are, however, products for either side, as well as rarely seen paired cuffs. Although the latter makes little sense, since the highlight of such decoration is the asymmetry of the image.

How are cuffs attached to the ear?

There are three main types of fastenings for such products:

Adjustable Clamp: Used in small to medium sized jewelry that can be moved up and down as desired.
A small ring in the form of an open circle is equipped with large products with a complex design. Such models frame the ear along the entire length, the clamping ring is located in the middle.
Cuffs with a chain have two attachment points. The stud on the earlobe is fixed like a clip, and the chain is attached with a mini-clip a little higher.

There are also non-standard types of fastening structures.
In some models with a chain, the piercing is still required so that the stud earring is held firmly in the lobe. The largest cuffs, the length of which extends beyond the ear, may have two clips - at the top and at the bottom.

“Front to back” or double-sided earrings

Not so long ago, the famous variety of such earrings rose to the Olympus of popularity - ball studs from Dior. There are other options, no less bright and stylish, that function in accordance with their name. The front earring is attached to the back one, which is always larger than the first one!

Types of cuffs by shape

The most common option is small cuffs in the form of a half ring. They visually resemble piercings, but do not require a puncture. Therefore, such products are also called decoys.

The main advantage of small models is versatility

They suit any style of clothing: sports, evening, business. Tiny rings are easy to combine with other jewelry and accessories. The main disadvantage of such models is considered to be inconspicuousness. Single half rings look so modest that others may not notice them at all. Therefore, stylists recommend wearing several headbands at once or choosing larger cuffs made in the shape of:

snakes, frogs, dragons, scorpions and lizards - among all the fauna, it is amphibians that look most intriguing on cuffs;
other animals and insects - cats, wolves, birds, butterflies, spiders;
floral ornament - products in the form of leaves, flowers, tree crowns and other elements of vegetation are most suitable for a romantic style;
elven ears - such ear cuffs are usually chosen by lovers of the fantasy genre , although they add beauty and femininity to all girls;
with chains - “urban” models for stylish girls who add zest to even the simplest everyday look;
with a hair clip - have a similar design, but the top of the chain is attached not to the ear, but to the hair clip. The item looks feminine and elegant , but is not entirely suitable for everyday wear. But for a sensual photo shoot - just right.

There are other forms too. Unusual bulky cuffs can be made in the form of inscriptions, numbers, names, symbols. More often there are models in the form of snowflakes, crosses, dew drops, infinity signs and other squiggles.

Features of the combination of ear cuffs, hairstyle and makeup

An important nuance that should be taken into account when choosing these ear decorations is that the hairstyle should open the ear completely so that the kafa is clearly visible. Undoubtedly, the more elegant this type of jewelry, the more strict and chic the styling should be. Romantic cuffs look good with smoothly combed hair up (shell, ponytail, bun, raised hair with a headband or backcomb, etc.). If the style is romantic and youthful, then the hairstyle and jewelry on the ears and other parts of the body should be the same.

Cuffs are often used as single jewelry that favorably emphasizes the beauty of the body. Undoubtedly, such cuffs are ideal for asymmetrical combing. Of course, they can be worn in pairs, but some models are too massive or provocative and two cuffs will look vulgar and rude, while one will look stylish. To wear paired jewelry, it is better to open both ears, raising your hair to the top.

Paired cuffs should be moderately bright, complementing the image or focusing attention on a certain area of the head and neck.

Cuffs can be worn in multiples of different styles on one ear. If you have good taste, experiment, combine several models at once, try combining different ear cuffs and outfits. It all depends on your imagination and desire to be bright, fashionable, original.

The brighter the earring, the more modest the makeup should be. Sometimes an exception can be colorful makeup combined with bright feather cuffs in the style of tropical colors or heavy colors in a gothic or punk style.

Cuff earrings very well emphasize the natural beauty of a long neck, neat ears, good hairstyle, beautiful curve of the neck and shoulders, and an ideal profile. If you have something to show, ear cuffs will complete the perfect image of a beauty. If there are defects in the area of the head, neck, or décolleté, cuffs need to be selected carefully or choose more discreet, sophisticated products that only complement the image without attracting all the attention to themselves.

Fortunately, for this jewelry there are no restrictions on the age, gender and style of the fashionista. There is simply a fantastic variety of styles and designs allowing everyone to wear cuffs. Both teenagers and stylish grandmothers can flaunt themselves in cafes, naturally, taking into account age characteristics. They are perfect for both girls and fashionable guys. A neat chain curling along the edge of the ear or a modest ring on the top of the shell will suit both a strict teacher and a businesswoman, while massive and large dragon snakes and stones will look better on a muscular biker.

They go well with earrings or can themselves have elements that require piercing. Universal, without punctures - the most common, as they do not leave marks and are an excellent replacement or addition to clips. In fact, cuffs are an opportunity to create entire pictures on the shell of the ear, this is a limitless field for imagination, this is an opportunity to enclose the entire image in a single decoration on the ear or enhance the effect of an outfit, complementing the style picture.

Material: jewelry cuffs, jewelry, non-standard options

A constant hit of sales are cuffs with rhinestones and precious stones. However, stones do not have to be precious; there are also more affordable products. Fashionable ear jewelry is designed for beauties with different incomes, so every girl can afford them. Based on the materials used to make cuffs, there are the following:

Jewelry cuffs made of gold, silver and other precious metals. Precious and semi-precious gems are used as inserts.
Used jewelry - inexpensive models made from less valuable alloys. Costume jewelry is criticized for its fragility: metals quickly oxidize and corrode, and ornamental stone inserts are easily scratched. But if worn carefully, jewelry can maintain its decent appearance for several years.
Wire – original models with a unique design and a wire frame base. The wire can be regular or have a thin layer of gold or silver coating.

The category of original designer cuffs stands apart. They are made from rubber, plastic, fabric, natural materials, and other available materials. Such decorations, as a rule, do not differ in durability.

But using them to create an original image for a shoot or special event is as easy as shelling pears

Cuffs - what kind of earrings?

Cuff is an ear accessory.
Decorates not only the lobe, but also other parts of the auricle. Particularly large products cover the hair, face, neck, and temple. One of the key features of these earrings is that they can be worn without having a piercing (there are exceptions). Clips have a similar quality, but the latter fit rather flimsily and pull on the ear. Due to the original fixing element, cuffs are free from such disadvantages. In addition, they are produced not in pairs, but in 1 piece. Moreover, the product is intended to be worn on a specific ear: either the left or the right.

A few words about their appearance...

Cuffs are not innovative decoration.
The earrings were found in burials that date back to 2300 BC. e. There is also evidence that they were worn in Ancient Greece and Rome. They were also in demand among the peoples who inhabited the territory of Russia before the unification of Rus'. In the modern world, fashion for them has gone out and then returned. Cuffs were among the trends in the following periods:

50s (models with a bow behind the ear are in demand);
1960-70s (bohemians wore cuffs with tassels and large stones);
80s (the item is classified as unisex, men are starting to wear it too).

In the 2000s, cuffs returned to high fashion, but the emphasis shifted from the abundance of stones and large decorative elements to a complex composition . Decoration began to be made from wire, which, due to its physical properties, easily takes and maintains an unusual shape.

What materials are they made from?

Cuffs in this regard are not much different from other types of earrings. They are made from precious and common metals. Products with gold, silver, and platinum plating are also produced. There is costume jewelry. Moreover, sometimes it looks much more interesting than jewelry . Designers create stunning little things from glass, wire and plastic, depicting flowering branches, dragons and even entire plot compositions.

Important! Ear cuffs with galvanic coating have high hypoallergenic properties. This characteristic is also inherent in gold products of high standard (that is, with a minimum amount of impurities). However, we must remember that an inadequate reaction can occur to anything. Therefore, no class of ear jewelry is considered 100% safe.

How to wear cuffs, combining them harmoniously with clothes?

Large models with stones are most suitable for evening dresses, emphasizing the femininity and elegance of the image, creating a beautiful play of light. A set of jewelry pearl cuffs and necklaces looks especially elegant with an evening dress.

Large jewelry with animal and plant symbols fits well into everyday dressy style, like “elf ears.”

The most versatile products are in the minimalist style. Small cuffs are worn with both a romantic dress and sweatpants. Considering that their decor is varied, every girl will choose a suitable product for herself.

Who is it suitable for?

In order not to make a mistake in your choice, you definitely need to try it on and understand how, with the help of jewelry, you can emphasize the advantages and hide the disadvantages. You need to choose such jewelry not only based on social status, you also need to take into account the traditional way of life of a person.

How well cafs fit depends on your face shape. Any type of jewelry is suitable for an oval face. You should take a closer look at choosing ear cuffs for people with square or triangular faces. It is better to choose models for the earlobe. Long and voluminous ones can emphasize the angularity of face shapes.

It is recommended to choose cuffs with special structures of the face and neck with caution. In this case, it is better to choose discreet jewelry without drawing much attention to these parts of the body. They will stand out unfavorably against the background of the heads of miniature persons. Massive jewelry is suitable for those with large facial features.

It is also beneficial to choose earring cuffs by color. All shades of blue, purple, gold and orange are suitable for blue-eyed people. Malachite, turquoise and garnet colors will look beautiful with green and gray eyes. For dark eyes, earrings decorated with pearls, amber and rock crystal are suitable.

There is no need to choose ear cuffs that are similar in hair color, this way the earrings will remain invisible and will not have the desired effect. It is not necessary for children to undergo a painful procedure of piercing their ears. Bright, original decorations are suitable for children of any age. For older people, it is advisable to choose products made from precious metals and stones.

Flowers

Floristry is the most popular thematic area for all types of ear cuffs, so many women of all ages choose flowers. Here you just need to decide on the size. For younger girls, large and massive ones are appropriate, for older women - small ones.

Long

Long cuffs contain chains in their design that are intricately woven in the form of locks, springs, classics, openwork, or another type. In particular, long cuffs are quite voluminous, so they should be worn on only one ear.

Mismatched or mono earrings

And finally, the last trend on our list. As it turned out, the phrase “pair of earrings” no longer means exactly the same pieces. On the contrary, the obvious difference between two earrings in length and shape, as well as color, is quite the norm for modern designers. The extreme degree of “unpairedness” is the absence of a pair at all, called “monosering”. Most often, unpaired earrings can be worn both together and separately. What's not a great opportunity for self-expression?

Source: jckonline.com Photo: jckonline.com, etsy.com, vaganova.pro, permyakova.net

Where to buy earrings

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Jacket earrings

Jacket earrings have an equally figurative name. Let's remember such a wardrobe item as a jacket (jacket - jacket in English). It is thrown over the shoulders to create an image, but at any time the girl can take it off, remaining in a basic blouse or T-shirt. Likewise, these earrings are distinguished by the presence of a removable decorative pendant, which is put on a stud and ends up behind the earlobe.

Classic (if one can say so in the proposed circumstances) “jackets” (for those who were already familiar with them) usually have the shape of a drop or a circle:

But today, many variations of jacket earrings have emerged, essentially updating the entire category. New items of this type resemble flying flirtatious skirts, with only the edge peeking out from under the earlobe. Quite often they are sold one at a time - the unobtrusiveness of their image makes it possible to combine them with an earring of a different shape. Designers have come up with other variations of this decoration - including “linear” ones, extended downwards.

How to do it yourself, master class

Externally, the design of cuffs may seem complicated, but this is a deceptive feeling and making them yourself is not difficult. You can make earrings from scrap materials and even from paper clips, since the thickness of such wire allows you to create jewelry, and you may not have special wire at hand.

Earring cuffs are designed in advance. The model is determined and on which ear they plan to wear it, since for some categories of people this is an important point. It is also recommended to start with simple models, since massive models are more difficult to make. Molds consisting of two layers of wire can complicate the creation process. The wire should not break anywhere.

To create, you will need materials for every taste: wire, beads, chains, feathers, pendants. Original jewelry will be created from them. Tools that will be useful are round nose pliers and pliers. With their help, the wire will be bent and cut, and loops will be created. To create a rounded shape, you can use a pen, pencil, or any round object that allows you to wrap the wire around it.

Wire cuffs

To make it you will need 13-15 cm of wire, pliers and a handle.

Cut the required length of wire and make a loop at one end using pliers.
Bend the wire in a zigzag pattern twice.
Make a curl at the free end of the wire.
Wrap the cuff around the handle.
Make a small ring from the wire and secure it to a small curl.

Cuffs with beads

You will need 18 cm of wire, beads and pliers.

Cut the wire, bend 5 cm and press it to the main part.
Bend the wire again by 3 cm, forming a zigzag. On one side the zigzag protrudes by 2 cm, and on the other side by 10 cm.
Find the middle of the zigzag and wrap the long part of the wire in 3-4 tight turns.
Bend the short part at an angle of 45 degrees to the opposite side.
Repeat the fold on the opposite side.

Step-by-step making of cuff earrings with your own hands.

Place beads on both sides and make a ring on the short part of the wire.
Bend the long part in a zigzag, the sides should be equal in size to the beads.
Place more beads on the top of the resulting zigzag.
Finish the zigzag with a ring made using pliers.
Bend the free ends with a pen or pencil.

Cuffs with feathers

Prepare materials: thick wire 15 cm and thin wire, beads, 1 large feather and small feathers, chain, superglue, 5 rings for jewelry. Tools you will need: round nose pliers and pliers.

bend the wire into the shape of an ear;
bend the edges into rings;
attach rings with thin wire;
drop glue onto a large feather and attach a smaller feather to it;
take 5 cm of thin wire and bend it into a loop at one end;
wrap the second end of the wire around the feathers where they are glued together;
Make 10 pieces of thin wire, each 7 cm long;
make a loop, put on a bead, thread the last link of the chain and bend the wire;
from the rest, do the same for the base of the feathers.

Cuffs made of polymer clay or plastic

Products made of plastic help the product remain flexible and when using these earrings, the attachment to the ear is adjustable. For this you will need: wire, black plastic, gray eye shadow and varnish.

Fit the frame of the dragon's body and wing to the ear.
Use plastic to mold the body frame and the wing frame.
Connect the body and wing.
Using a needle, cut out small parts to form a wing and fragments of the dragon.
Using shadows, add color and shine to the future product.
Bake in the oven for 15 minutes.
Cover with varnish.

Thus, thanks to imagination, every woman will be able to create her own unique style with the help of cuff earrings.

Author: Rita Aleksandrovskaya

How to wear

Thanks to simple metals, the earrings are easy to put on and bend. The cuffs allow you to attach them to any part of the ear, bend easily and are comfortable to wear both on the top and in the middle of the ear. It is recommended to wear heavy earrings before a long event to avoid fatigue.

You only need to fold the decoration once:

With the help of a bow , this mount is not noticeable to others. It looks like the earring is glued to the ear. A special hook-arc allows you to attach the jewelry to any ear structure. This type of earrings should be put on from the earlobe, lift the jewelry up and secure the clip to the cartilage.
Using a clip - this type does not require ear piercing; the earrings hold securely both on the top of the ear and in the middle. In order to find the optimal position, you can slightly bend the earring wider. Once a comfortable position is found, you need to squeeze the ring. In this case, the ear cuff should not press or fall off the ear. To remove it, you need to carefully remove it from the cartilage without unbending it.
Using a combined fastening - such ear cuffs are secured in the hole of the earlobe using an additional fastening - “nails”, then placed behind the ear and placed in the optimal position.

The variety of models allows you to wear these jewelry for almost any event. It also wouldn’t hurt to wear a hat, beret, voluminous scarf, glasses or headphones, but it’s better to choose models with reliable fastenings. However, you should not choose models that the cuffs can get caught on. Wearing these earrings is like putting your hair behind your ear.

To make sure the fastening is secure, just shake your head. It is recommended to remove jewelry before going to bed or before playing sports to avoid damage to the skin or breakage of the jewelry. For long-term use of cuffs, it is better to protect them from contact with water and store them in a box.

Snakes

The shocking and insidious snake design is one of the main highlights of the cuff. You can find many similar earrings on sale that have an additional fastening in the sink area to hold the heavy earring in the correct position.