The Most Iconic Earrings in Movie History

Earrings have always been more than accessories—they are symbols of elegance, power, romance, and sometimes rebellion. In movies, these tiny yet significant details often leave a lasting impression, enhancing a character’s personality or creating an unforgettable moment. From glamorous diamonds to quirky statement pieces, here’s a look at the most iconic earrings in movie history and the stories they tell.

1. Marilyn Monroe’s Diamond Earrings in Gentlemen Prefer Blondes (1953)

Marilyn Monroe dazzled as Lorelei Lee in this classic musical, her character embodying the idea that “diamonds are a girl’s best friend.” Among the many sparkling jewels she wore, her oversized diamond drop earrings were the epitome of Old Hollywood glamour.

• Why They’re Iconic: These earrings symbolized wealth, ambition, and the allure of luxury that defined Monroe’s character. Paired with her hot pink gown and a cascade of diamonds, the earrings became part of one of cinema’s most recognizable looks.

2. Audrey Hepburn’s Pearl Earrings in Breakfast at Tiffany’s (1961)

As Holly Golightly, Audrey Hepburn wore her classic pearl earrings with the little black dress, oversized sunglasses, and a tiara, creating a look that is synonymous with elegance and sophistication.

• Why They’re Iconic: These earrings elevated a simple outfit into an enduring symbol of style. The pearls added a touch of refinement that perfectly complemented Holly’s aspirational yet vulnerable persona.

3. Julia Roberts’ Chandelier Earrings in Pretty Woman (1990)

When Vivian Ward (Julia Roberts) attends the opera in a stunning red gown, her outfit is completed by a pair of glittering chandelier earrings. They added elegance and class to her transformation into a sophisticated woman.

• Why They’re Iconic: These earrings marked a pivotal moment in the film, symbolizing Vivian’s journey from a street-smart outsider to a confident, glamorous woman.

4. Natalie Portman’s Feathered Earrings in Black Swan (2010)

In Black Swan, Natalie Portman’s character, Nina, undergoes a transformation from innocence to darkness. Her black feathered earrings, worn during her descent into madness, perfectly mirrored her character’s duality.

• Why They’re Iconic: These earrings weren’t just accessories—they were symbolic. The feathers embodied the Black Swan, tying Nina’s psychological unraveling to her performance.

5. Scarlett Johansson’s Pearl Earrings in Girl with a Pearl Earring (2003)

Based on the famous painting by Johannes Vermeer, Scarlett Johansson’s role as Griet is centered around a single piece of jewelry: a pearl earring. The movie’s title and its visual impact made this earring unforgettable.

• Why They’re Iconic: The pearl earring wasn’t just an accessory; it was a central motif, representing beauty, mystery, and artistic inspiration.

6. Elizabeth Taylor’s Diamond Earrings in Cleopatra (1963)

Elizabeth Taylor brought extravagance to the role of Cleopatra, wearing opulent costumes adorned with jewels, including her iconic gold and diamond drop earrings.

• Why They’re Iconic: The earrings symbolized Cleopatra’s power and status as a queen, and they were a key part of the film’s lavish production that remains unparalleled.

7. Cher’s Mismatched Earrings in Clueless (1995)

Alicia Silverstone’s Cher Horowitz had a wardrobe to die for, and her accessories were just as memorable. In one scene, she wore playful mismatched earrings—one a star, the other a moon—that became an iconic symbol of 90s fashion.

• Why They’re Iconic: Cher’s quirky, mismatched earrings reflected her carefree and playful personality while capturing the fun, youthful spirit of the movie.

8. Angelina Jolie’s Emerald Earrings in The Tourist (2010)

Angelina Jolie’s breathtaking emerald drop earrings in The Tourist added a striking pop of color to her sophisticated wardrobe, emphasizing her character’s mystery and allure.

• Why They’re Iconic: The bold green of the emeralds contrasted perfectly with Jolie’s classic evening looks, making them unforgettable in their elegance.

9. Jennifer Lopez’s Hoop Earrings in Selena (1997)

In her portrayal of Selena Quintanilla, Jennifer Lopez wore bold hoop earrings that became synonymous with the Tejano singer’s iconic style.

• Why They’re Iconic: The hoops symbolized Selena’s vibrant personality and her connection to Latinx culture, blending glamour with relatability.

10. Cate Blanchett’s Ear Cuffs in Thor: Ragnarok (2017)

As Hela, Cate Blanchett brought high-fashion villainy to the Marvel Universe, and her angular, spiked ear cuffs perfectly matched her dark, edgy character.

• Why They’re Iconic: These earrings redefined how accessories can enhance a character, blending avant-garde fashion with a sense of danger.

11. Meryl Streep’s Dangling Earrings in The Devil Wears Prada (2006)

Meryl Streep’s portrayal of Miranda Priestly, the ultimate fashion editor, was accented with understated yet elegant dangling earrings that perfectly complemented her power suits.

• Why They’re Iconic: These earrings added a subtle touch of glamour to Miranda’s authoritative presence, proving that even small details can make a big statement.

12. Lupita Nyong’o’s Golden Ear Cuffs in Black Panther (2018)

As Nakia, Lupita Nyong’o’s gold ear cuffs reflected the film’s Afro-futuristic aesthetic and the character’s warrior strength.

• Why They’re Iconic: These earrings merged cultural significance with modern design, symbolizing strength, beauty, and tradition.

13. Anne Hathaway’s Crystal Drops in Les Misérables (2012)

Anne Hathaway’s character, Fantine, wears a pair of delicate crystal drop earrings that play a pivotal role in the story when she sells them in desperation.

• Why They’re Iconic: These earrings were more than beautiful—they carried emotional weight, symbolizing the sacrifices Fantine made for her child.

14. Nicole Kidman’s Ruby Earrings in Moulin Rouge! (2001)

In Moulin Rouge!, Nicole Kidman’s Satine wears breathtaking ruby earrings that symbolize love, passion, and tragedy.

• Why They’re Iconic: These vibrant red earrings enhanced Satine’s glamorous persona while foreshadowing the heartbreak at the heart of the story.

15. Reese Witherspoon’s Pink Earrings in Legally Blonde (2001)

Elle Woods’ playful pink earrings perfectly matched her bubbly personality and signature wardrobe of pink ensembles.

• Why They’re Iconic: These earrings became a symbol of Elle’s blend of intelligence and femininity, proving you can stay true to yourself and succeed.

Conclusion

From diamonds to pearls, hoops to ear cuffs, these iconic earrings have shaped some of the most memorable moments in movie history. Each pair tells a story, enhancing the characters and leaving a lasting impression on audiences. Whether they symbolize power, romance, or individuality, these earrings prove that the right accessory can make all the difference—even on the big screen.