Things are heating up, and we’re not just talking about the weather. Summer is the perfect season to show off a little more skin, add some sparkle, and finally get the piercing that’s been sitting on your mood board for months! Thanks to the return of ‘90s and Y2K-inspired style, classic belly rings are officially on their comeback tour, while floating navels, nipple piercings, and personalized ear stacks are giving a fresh twist to the piercing world. Whether your look is cute, sexy, or an exciting combination of both, these summer piercing trends are bringing the heat all season long.
Belly Piercings
Standard Belly Piercings
Piercing Details: The standard belly piercing typically passes through the upper ridge or lip of the navel. During the piercing process, the needle is guided through the small fold of skin that hangs over the navel. This creates a channel for the piercing to be done safely and securely. The needle and barbell do not pass through the belly button itself or into the abdomen; they only travel through that surface-level flap of skin. A curved barbell sits in the piercing, with one end above the belly button and the other resting inside the belly button.
Why It’s Trending: Standard navel piercings are popular because they instantly add personality to crop tops, low-rise jeans, swimsuits, and any outfit that deserves a little extra attention. Once the piercing is fully healed, you can switch between simple gems, bold charms, and dangling styles depending on how much flair you’re bringing to the function.
Floating Navel Piercings
Piercing Details: Who doesn’t love a twist on a classic? If you wish your belly piercing looked like it’s casually defying gravity, the floating navel piercing is exactly what you’re looking for. The floating navel piercing is usually placed through the upper ridge of the navel, just like a traditional belly piercing, but it appears to sit above the navel. A decorative gem or charm sits above the belly button, while a smaller ball or flat disc rests discreetly inside the navel. The result is a clean, minimalist look that makes the top piece appear as though it is floating against the skin.
Why It’s Trending: The floating navel is trending for the same reason the standard belly piercing is; it’s perfect for when you’re showing off some skin! Floating navel piercings have become especially popular because they offer a delicate alternative to the classic double-ended belly ring and may work better for certain navel shapes that fold or compress when sitting. Anatomy is still the boss, though, so a professional piercer should determine whether this placement is right for you.
Nipple Piercings
Horizontal Nipple Piercings
Piercing Details: The horizontal nipple piercing is placed at the base of the nipple, where the nipple meets the areola rather than through the tip. It’s the most common nipple piercing, and it’s usually styled with a straight barbell during the healing process. After healing, decorative straight barbells, circular barbells (such as horseshoe and captive rings), and nipple shields can add even more sparkle.
Why It’s Trending: The horizontal nipple piercing is the authoritative choice for anyone willing to give their twins this level of accessories. These piercings are popular because they’re versatile; they can remain your own secret under clothing or become the star of the show when you decide the dress code is suddenly none of anyone else’s business. The balanced, symmetrical appearance makes it a popular choice for both piercing beginners and experienced body jewelry lovers.
Vertical Nipple Piercing
Piercing Details: Just like the horizontal nipple piercing, vertical nipple piercings are placed at the base of the nipple, where the nipple meets the areola rather than through the tip. The difference? Instead of traveling from side to side, this piercing runs from the top to the bottom of the nipple’s base. These piercings are perfect for anyone hoping for a unique take on a classic look.
Why It’s Trending: Vertical nipple piercings are less common than horizontal ones, which is exactly why they appeal to people looking for something bold and different. The placement creates a striking up-and-down line and can be styled with barbells, horseshoes, captives, and more. It’s edgy, unique, and intimate.
Ear Stacking
Constellation Piercings
Piercing Details: Constellation piercings, also known as curated ear stacks, use several piercings placed closely together across the earlobe and ear cartilage. Studs, hoops, and barbells are arranged to create an intentionally scattered design inspired by constellations in the night sky. Unlike a matching set of timeless piercings, each constellation can be customized around the natural shape of your ear, your existing piercings, and your personal style.
Why It’s Trending: In short, constellation piercings are trending because they are the most unique, customizable piercing type available. You can create a look that’s completely you. But the reason they’re even more popular in the summer? Your hair is up so you can stay cool, while your piercing shines brightly and brings the heat!
While summer piercings are all the rage, it’s important to remember that they also come with complications. From heat and sweat causing irritation to pools, hot tubs, beaches, and lakes, which can cause infections, caring for a new piercing in the summer isn’t always easy. Take time when deciding if it’s the right season to get a new piercing, and remember to always treat your new piercings with care! Once your piercing is fully healed and your piercer gives you the green light, switch up your jewelry, show off your style, and make this summer your hottest one yet.
