Much like their first kiss, everyone remembers their first big splurge. While my first kiss was, uh, not the best, my first splurge was — and it's still one of my most-worn purchases. As a graduation present to myself, I bought Kate Spade Gumdrop Stud earrings that I had been eyeing forever. And after an entire decade of trends, these sophisticated, quiet-luxury earrings have remained a staple in my wardrobe. I even wore them on my very first date with my now-fiancé! So, yes, they're also my good-luck charm — and at just $19 (down from $49), they're a certified steal right now at the Kate Spade Outlet.
Oversized but understated, these stunners are available in two neutral colors: clear and black.
Why is this a good deal? ????
While I spent a larger chunk of my hard-earned babysitting money to purchase these earrings way back when (I don't regret a cent!) you can add them to your collection for just $19. To put it in perspective, you can look and feel fancy for about the price of a movie ticket. Plus, 61% off is a great discount on just about anything.
Why do I need this? ????
A good pair of studs is essential in any jewelry arsenal, but the larger size of these Kate Spade earrings makes them slightly more interesting than your classic studs. Made with glass stones and 12-karat gold-plated metal, these are one of my secret weapons for feeling fancy and put-together on a day when I'm anything but. I've worn them with white jeans and a tee and have dressed them up for a wedding.
I also have double piercings on both of my ears, and they fit flawlessly with no overlap in sight. Sometimes I even throw them in my second holes to switch up my look. And despite the size, they're shockingly comfortable. I've fallen asleep in them a handful of times (c'mon, we've all been there) and forgot they were on come morning.
Yes, the bags are great — but there are so many good jewelry finds at Kate Spade. (Getty)
What reviewers say ????
Look, I can wax poetic about these earrings for hours, but I'm not the only one who's obsessed. Kate Spade Outlet shoppers have given the Gumdrop Studs an impressive 4.4 out of 5 stars.
Pros ????
"These quickly have become my favorite pair of earrings," declared one happy shopper. "They are high quality and the perfect size. Ordered another pair in a different color."
"They look amazing and are a must-have for everyone," wrote another customer. "The small amount of gold on them is enough to wear with all-gold jewelry but is also subtle enough to pair with silver and no one notices the difference. I like to wear them in my second earring piercing and dress up whatever I'm wearing for the day."
"Beautiful sparklers," a third five-star reviewer said. "I feel lovely just putting them on. Changes every day to a party day!"
Cons ????
While reviewers are generally big fans, this one took issue with the backing: "These earrings are beautiful but the backs do not stay secure." However, they did add that they are "gorgeous." (Author's note: No issues with the backings here, and I've been wearing 'em for years!)
Another thing a few reviewers note? The size. As one wrote: "These earrings are slightly bigger than I was expecting." So, just keep in mind that they are bigger than your standard studs.
Psst: Earrings can totally fix a bad hair day, no hat or hairband required. Just throw your hair up in a bun, pop these subtle sparklers in, and people won't even notice that extra frizz or grease. (Yes, I speak from experience.)
Need a spot to store your new earrings? This compact jewelry organizer has the coveted Oprah stamp of approval:
This popular pick from one of Oprah's Favorite Things lists is a shopper favorite too: Over 10,000 buyers give it five stars on Amazon.
"The case is beautiful! It comes in different shades of velvet, it's small so will fit into any space, and it zips closed," said one of its many fans. "The zip closure makes it ideal for travel because there's nothing that can fall out. I liked it so much that I've now purchased four of them for friends' birthdays, not counting the one I bought for myself."
Save $3 with Prime
$22 at AmazonThe reviews quoted above reflect the most recent versions at the time of publication.