One earring gay

The idea of a "gay earring" based on which ear it's worn in is a stereotype that became popular in the s and s. According to this outdated belief, wearing an earring in the right ear signified being gay, while the left ear was considered straight.

Robbie (Normal) on X (Twitter) captures a contemporary view by asserting, “either ear is the gay ear if you're gay.” It’s significant because it emphasizes how ear piercings related to sexual orientation are outdated and irrelevant–a sign that societal norms are shifting away from traditional views.

Troy, a graphic designer spotted at a gay bar, called his single earring a “female repellent” and said that he chose to pierce his right ear — the “gay” ear, according to the historical trope — to indicate his queer sexuality.

While women almost always pierce both ears, it was somewhat common for the few men who did wear earrings to wear one in just one ear. While rock stars were most likely to sport the single earring in the ’s, it became more common among gay people.