What size gauge should i start with to stretch my ears?

I started with 14g and I didn't even feel it and it went right without any trouble. I suggest using tapers to go up to 2g one size at a time and then use the silicone tunnels to go bigger. The pinchers (hoops) could be a bit too heavy once you get a little bigger and it would further stretch the hole and you could get this hanging look which isn't too attractive.