Gen Z is increasingly questioning traditional gender norms in fashion and beauty. The lines between men’s and women’s fashion are fast blurring. It’s more about personal style and self-expression. Piercings were traditionally considered a woman’s forte, but there is now a shift from women’s and men’s jewellery to personal style”.
Multiculturalism and inclusivity have influenced body art culture. Piercings have different meanings in different cultures. Men and women in ancient cultures wore body piercings. Piercings signified status, beauty, and spirituality. Body art has long been a form of self-expression. People from all walks of life are embracing various ways to add to their personal style. Tattoos are the usual choice for most people. For people looking for something different, piercings are the ideal option.
This blog explores how body piercings have become a safe, visible way to express identity.
The Evolution of Piercings: From Gendered Rules to Personal Choice
Historically, piercings were influenced by gender expectations. Women were often restricted to ear piercings, and men were expected to avoid them. Facial and body piercings were regarded as rebellious and masculine.
Piercings in ancient cultures were not restricted by gender. Jewellery signified status, spirituality, and identity and had nothing to do with gender.
As the cultural landscape across the globe changed, societal norms began to become more inclusive. Alternative music scenes, queer communities, and youth-driven fashion trends challenged the concept that piercings belonged to any one gender.
Professional studios do not associate piercing placement with gender. Placement is focused on body anatomy, lifestyle, healing, and aesthetics. It is not about “Is this for men or women?” but “Does this work for me?”
What “Unisex” Body Jewellery Really Means Today
Unisex doesn’t strip the individual of personality. It is more about freedom from labels. Piercing jewellery is designed for different faces and styles today. These pieces are not intended to be categorised into any particular label.
Designers are focused on clean lines and adaptable proportions. The designs are versatile and can be styled in many ways. The focus is not only on aesthetics but also on comfort. Materials are chosen to suit all skin types and lifestyles.
A single piece of jewellery can look understated on one person and a bold statement on another. The jewellery doesn’t conform to any gender norms; the wearer can style it any way they choose.
Popular Unisex Piercings That Work for Every Face and Body
Some piercings have become popular for their versatility.
Ear Piercings
Ear piercings are the most common piercings. Lobe piercings are popular among both men and women. Lobe stacks are also increasingly gaining popularity. They are usually styled with studs, hoops, or a mix of both. Other popular placements are helix, conch, and tragus.
Curated ear piercings do not adhere to symmetry or gender rules.
Facial Piercings
Nostril piercings have become acceptable for everyone. They can be loud or subtle. They are adaptable and suit different facial structures. Earlier, septum piercings were stigmatised. These days, they have become widely accepted and popular among the younger generations.
Eyebrow piercings are gaining popularity as edgy yet soft statements. Another trend that is on the rise is philtrum piercings.
All these piercings are used to make a statement about individuality and not gender.
Body Piercings
Nipple and navel piercings are also not bound by gender restrictions today. The focus is on anatomy, healing, and comfort and not who should wear them.
Jewellery Design Trends Driving the Unisex Movement
Jewellery design is focused on high-quality, innovative designs that work for everyone. Minimalist designs that make a statement are currently popular. Architectural designs, like flat discs, smooth bezels, and clean prong settings, offer a refined look that is versatile and suits different placements.
Implant-grade titanium and solid gold are the preferred metals. They are durable and safe. People like the understated appeal of titanium and gold. Finishes like yellow gold, white gold, and matte metals go with all styles and are suitable for all occasions. Who wouldn’t prefer to invest in high-quality pieces that last rather than low-quality pieces?
The driving force behind designs is comfort. People prefer jewellery pieces that are easy to wear and lightweight. Currently, people are looking for jewellery that can be worn comfortably every day with minimal maintenance.
Piercing Studios as Inclusive, Gender-Neutral Spaces
Piercing studios have evolved to become inclusive spaces that welcome all clients, irrespective of gender. The tone of consultations is gender-neutral, and the intake forms are inclusive. The staff at Colibri Tattoo and Piercing focus on respect and consent. Staff ask open-ended questions and offer guidance. Our priority is your comfort and trust. Clients are not categorised.
We don’t assume what a client wants based on appearance. The goal is for our clients to feel seen.
Body art culture is being actively shaped by the changing cultural landscape.
Social Media and the Visibility of Gender-Fluid Styling
Social media holds a mirror to a changing society. Platforms like Instagram and TikTok are flooded with people experimenting with varied jewellery. They have normalised unisex piercings. The way a piece is worn makes it personal and authentic.
Gen Z is experimental. They don’t care much about perfection. Instead, what holds appeal for them is the potential for customization. Influencers and creators are breaking all the rules of styling. They have popularised mixing jewellery across styles, or mixing bold pieces with delicate ones. Traditional placements are being challenged today. The only rule they follow is that there are no rules.
How Unisex Piercings Reflect Broader Cultural Shifts in Canada
Conversations around gender identity are becoming more open, and the beauty and fashion industries are taking note. Canada’s focus on inclusivity, multiculturalism, and self-expression is driving the unisex piercing movement.
Piercings are a way to explore gender identity. The appeal of piercings is that they are reversible, customizable, and personal. Workspaces are progressive and inclusive today. Jewellery doesn’t need to be hidden or justified. People are free to make choices based on preferences, free of fear of judgment.
Choosing Piercings Without Gender Labels: What to Consider
The first step is working with an experienced piercer. An experienced piercer will focus on balance, placement, and styling options. If you are new to piercings, the key criteria a piercer will consider are anatomy, lifestyle, and comfort. Do not blindly follow trends and labels. Think about how the piercings will heal and how they can be accommodated in your daily routines.
Many people start with subtle placements and add more later to develop their personal style.
The Future of Piercings Is Personal, Not Gendered
Piercings are beyond gender. Society is evolving, and the shift towards inclusivity is happening in all facets of life. There is no “normal” anymore; it is subjective. The boundaries of old rules are blurred.
Body jewellery is evolving, and the focus is now on individuality and comfort. People prefer quality and long-term sustainability. People embrace whatever allows them to express themselves, free from the fear of judgment. Piercings were once associated with rebellion, but today they are widely accepted.
Young people just want to express who they are – quietly, confidently, unapologetically.
If you are looking for a piercing studio that can guide you, visit Colibri Tattoo & Piercing for a consultation. Start your piercing journey with us, and we promise you will be back for more!
