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Here at Milk Tooth, we like to tackle the big issues. To match or not to match. It's an issue generations of fashionistas have passionately debated for decades.

Today we've decided to grab the bull by the horns and draw a conclusion. Using the clinically proven best technique to make a decision know to man (i.e. making a list of pros and cons), let's analyse the evidence...

Reasons matchy-matchy is good:

1. Coords. One of the best inventions ever and coveted once purchased. From business lady badass on Michelle Obama, to norm core casual on Alexa Chung, to out-there 80s-inspired on Susie Bubble, this is a top-to-toe look we love. We imagine it's a bit like when a fella feels slick in a suit, it's a look that is easy to wear, purposeful and guaranteed on point. Let's not take that joy away from us all please.

2. Clueless (as in the movie). Not only a total hoot and giver of countless phrases now implicitly part of classic teen language history ('Total Monet' etc.), but also an epic, even though at the time ironic, foray into fashion. Okay so it was meant to be OTT styling, but who can deny those totally banging looks. Yellow plaid dress, waistcoat, hat and even bag. On you Alicia, yes please. Plus Iggy and Charlie XCX totally agree.

3. Make up accenting. Wearing a lipstick or nail varnish shade that matches part of your outfit (whether your shoe colour or a pattern accent in your skirt) is a sure fire way to look put together and fashion forward. Even more satisfying when you pass a mirror and spot you're rocking the match accidentally too (kind of - a little bit of you suspects it was part of destiny's plan). Frankly, one of life's greatest simple joys - and I will fight anyone who disagrees. 

4. Bling bling. If we weren't allowed to matchy-matchy, we're worried the bling bling phenomenon wouldn't have evolved. And it would be a crying shame to lessen the draw-dropping Instagram gawping opportunities of that hashtag - is there anything you can't diamanté these days?? Plus bling blings' more modest cousins allow some seriously strong looks. Think stacking up rings - or layering OTT gold necklaces with rude girl fleek. In our experience, as the gold accessories pile higher, the kickass confidence rises. So let's not disempower ourselves hey?! Check out our rude crew Pinterest board for further evidence.

Reasons matchy-matchy is baaad:

1. Jewellery wars. I am suspicious of any camp that insists wearing both Silver and gold is wrong. Surely metallics implicitly go together, no? Have you not heard of Ziggy Stardust? The Terry De Havilland x Nasty Gal collab  creates a strong case study. And further evidence of rule flouting totally killing it with these lovelies.

 2. Showing off. We're uncomfortable with the effort required to strive for consistency across our 'stuff carriers'. Think pap shot of JLo in at an airport with 37 matching Louis V's in an array of sizes. Bit showy right? And a tad uncreative dare we say? Since when did matching become a status symbol? Can't be a good trend for humanity if you think about it logically - we have enough appearance based neurosis as it is. And just think of the poor little cute Ostriches (okay they're not really actually very cute, but for the purpose of making the argument)!

3. Feeling like a child. Not sure whether this is just me, but if you wear matching shoes, bag and accessories, do you not feel a little bit like you're 9 years old and playing dress up?? Not a fashion era we're keen to evoke as adult self.

4. Less pattern potential. If we always stuck with matching outfits, the Pattern clash trend may never have been invented. And without permission to ever wear a monochrome stripe skirt with a bold tropical print tee again, the world would be a sadder place.

So there you have it, conclusive proof. Rules are over rated. So go on and style yourself the way you darn like! We're sure you'll look lovely. Oh, but there is one pairing that will always be in fashion my friends, matching your left and right ear by dressing them with fabulous stylish earrings of course! Browse ours here.

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Whatever your level of passion for earrings is, there are a couple of must haves. Trends will come and go, but these will see you through the ups and down of life (okay, not literally) and always remain stylish.

The hoop earring is your most basic essential. It will be continuously useful. If it's a large or chunky hoop it can make you feel instantly confident. It can also totally evoke a no-messing attitude boost. Yes you may observe I am wearing massive badass hoops. Why? Because why the hell not?!

Hoops can also dress down a fancy outfit. To help you get some daytime wear out of those party clothes you really love, but just don't quite have enough occasions for. They look great totally casual with stripes and jeans, or simply sexy with a deep red lip and Latin vibe.

So versatile. So needed in your life. Dinny Hall do a great quality signature hoop, as well as some more risque variations. And BTW this look is totally hot right now. Even real fashion types like French Vogue are featuring hoops - so it must be true. 

My other staple earring is a chunky bold 80s-inspired stud. Check out The Power Lineup to see what I mean. These bad boys have the opposite power to a hoop. They can totally dress up a casual outfit - or take a glam look to a whole new wow dimension.

In particular, a strong simple solid gold stud will always see you right. For me, they define a fierce jewellery collection and are the classic style that just keeps giving. Totally wearable and instantly stylish.

Check out some wicked fashion icons who know how to work a good Power earring on our PINterest page. A good earring can definitely be empowering. A confident earring sets you up for a confident day.

The world is full of kickass earrings just waiting to be discovered. And New York is just one great place to seek and explore. The people watching is captivating. The architecture is epic. Imposing, bold and intense. Just like a good earring.

When you’re in town, there are some top places it’s worth making time for.

First up and keeping it central, there are loads of crazy jewellery shops around Nomad on Broadway. They are cheap and outrageous. It literally feels like being in a bizarre sweet shop. The vintage stores around Lower East side are also really fun places to seek out more stylish gems. Start at David Owens Vintage Clothing at 161 Rivington and then explore the neighbourhood. Last month we found some great metal earrings shaped like fried eyes in Manhattan's Chelsea Flea Market. They are properly kitsch with plenty of personality.

Forget the subway and walk over the imposing Brooklyn Bridge (well worth the effort) to explore sprawling Flea markets. If you happen to be lucky enough to be there when A Current Affair (a pop-up vintage marketplace that also visits LA) is open, make sure you cement it in your diary. That's where you'll find the premo stuff. And even if you're not game for a splurge, it's fascinating to wander around. Check out some great lots originally sourced from Brooklyn hotspots in The Throwback Set.

There's nothing better than that rush of adrenaline when you spot a good layout of treasure. It's the anticipation of finding something in the mix that you know you just can't leave without. Check out our range of fashion forward earrings inspired by New York icons in The Power Lineup.