An earring that is circular or semi-circular in design. Generally in the form of a hoop of metal that can be opened to pass through an ear piercing.

When it comes to earrings, hoops get the “trashy” reputation. They’re considered inappropriate, unsubtle, and un-ladylike. In other words, all the derogatory, made-up words created to put women into boxes. But in reality, hoop earrings are classic accessories that have never actually gone out of style. It just as relevant today as they were in the disco era of the ’60s and ’70s.

Honestly, I’m not much for statement earrings. I usually wear simple diamond studs in my ear piercings and call it a day. But when ’90s fashion and style were revived. I started wanting to wear a choker and rock graphic t-shirts. I realized that hoop earrings were the statement earring of my childhood. While it took me some time to really invest in a pair and actually wear them with an outfit, I loved how they framed my face, yet also made a style statement. Contrary to their unflattering reputation, and that terrible “you know what they say about hoops” joke, I loved how hoop earrings made me feel. And today, they’re the only statement earring I will actually wear.

So in honor of hoop earrings, and in an effort to diminish their negative reputation, here are seven reasons why these gems are your new favorite accessory. From their creative designs to their ability to work effortlessly with any outfit, hoops prove they’re a classic statement earring that anyone and everyone can rock.

Just like any statement earring, hoops have an uncanny ability to draw the eye towards your face. But unlike a chandelier or stud earring, hoops are in the shape of a circle so they are extra complimentary to your jaw and cheekbones, defining your features with both the shape and shade they create.