IS IT OKAY TO WEAR EARRINGS AT WORKMen have started dressing differently with India’s evolving work culture. Rahul Raitani, a manufacturing business owner and former employee of a bank has been wearing a diamond ear stud for the past 20 years. He says, “It has become a form of self-expression for me. I opt for a minimal design that looks professional. I ensure it's not too bold for a workplace setting and blends with my overall appearance. Occasionally, people have complimented me for wearing a stud, but I've never been directly judged or told by HR to remove it.”

Entrepreneur Dharmesh Panchal recently pierced his ears to mark his 50th birthday. He says, “I wear studs even at work. Some people might judge me. Some might say I am going through a midlife crisis, or that I am trying hard to look young. I am okay with it. But I would never wear a fancy earring or a coloured stud to work. A small, midsize solitaire stud or a very elegant and plain platinum or dull silver band works for a professional.”

According to talent acquisition director, Roshin Amin, “It is totally fine for men to wear earrings and jewellery at work. It is all about the quality of work one delivers that matters. Aesthetic choices like clothes, piercings, and tattoos don’t negate the ability to get the job done. We don’t stop women from wearing jewellery in the office so why should men be refrained from doing the same?”

TYPES OF MEN’S EARRINGS
Studs
Hoops
Huggies
Barbells
Tapers
Plugs

TIPS TO WEAR EARRINGS AT WORK

• Opt for high-quality metals like gold, silver, or titanium
• Choose smaller sizes – studs or small hoops are ideal
• Go for simple designs without excessive embellishments
• Opt for neutral colours that tend to be more professional
• Match your earrings with your overall outfit
• If wearing multiple piercings, balance the sizes and designs
• Keep the area around the piercing clean and well-groomed
• Experiment with different styles for different occasions, but keep it understated for professional settings
• Avoid any fancy earrings that are loud

(As suggested by celebrity stylist Pooja Karanam)