When it comes to engagement rings, tradition tends to rule, but that doesn’t mean yours has to look like everyone else’s. For couples who value individuality over convention, the idea of walking into a high street jeweller and picking out a “classic” solitaire just doesn’t cut it.
If you’re planning a wedding that reflects who you are, colourful, creative, and unapologetically different, why should your engagement ring be any less original? Here are some of the biggest style and design trends shaking up the world of engagement rings, perfect for couples who like to do things their own way.
Colour
Diamonds will always be timeless, but they’re far from your only option. Non-traditional stones are having a real moment, and they’re perfect for couples who want something with personality. Sapphires aren’t just blue; they come in pink, yellow, and green shades that feel fresh and modern. Emeralds bring drama with their intense green tones, perfect for statement-makers. Alexandrites are incredible gemstones that change colour under different lighting. Coloured diamonds add a playful twist while still nodding to tradition. Moissanite offers serious sparkle, often outshining diamonds, and is a more affordable choice too.
Adding colour is an easy way to reflect your personal style, tie in your favourite shades, or even coordinate with your wedding palette.
Not Your Grandma’s Ring (Unless Grandma Was Cool)
The solitaire is iconic, but it can feel a little predictable. Alternative settings are where the fun begins. East-West settings (stones set horizontally rather than vertically) add instant edge. Toi et Moi rings (two stones side by side) are perfect for representing two personalities in one design. Geometric or asymmetrical styles break the rules and look incredible on the hand. Chunky bands and mixed metals are making a comeback for couples who want a bold, modern aesthetic.
Vintage-inspired touches, like milgrain edges or art deco shapes, can also feel unexpected when paired with modern details. It’s about remixing tradition in a way that feels fresh.
Rings for Every Gender
Engagement rings don’t need to be gendered. Period. More couples are ditching the idea of “men’s” and “women’s” designs in favour of rings that feel authentic to the person wearing them. Bold signet-style rings or chunky diamond bands work beautifully for anyone. Minimalist designs suit those who prefer sleek, understated jewellery. Eternity bands are a gorgeous alternative for people who don’t connect with a single-stone design.
Ultimately, the best ring is one that reflects your vibe, not a marketing category. Inclusivity in jewellery design is growing, and it’s exciting to see couples embrace that freedom.
Ethical Bling That Actually Means Something
For a lot of couples, meaning matters just as much as aesthetics. Choosing a ring that feels good ethically can make it all the more special.
Lab-grown diamonds and moissanite are brilliant options here. They offer the same sparkle and durability as mined stones but are created in controlled environments, making them more sustainable and often more affordable.
Lily Arkwright specialises in ethical engagement rings, giving couples the chance to choose jewellery that aligns with their values without compromising on style. Because what’s more rock ‘n’ roll than saying “I do” on your own terms?
Go Bespoke
Sometimes the right ring doesn’t exist until you create it. Commissioning a bespoke engagement ring is the ultimate way to ensure your jewellery is as unique as your relationship.
A bespoke design gives you total creative control. Want a pink sapphire flanked by tiny emeralds? Done. Dreaming of a chunky band with art deco flair? Absolutely. Incorporating personal details like a birthstone, engraving, or a hidden gem makes the ring even more meaningful.
For couples who thrive on individuality, bespoke is a brilliant option. It’s not just a ring: it’s a piece of wearable art that tells your story.
There’s no single definition of what an engagement ring “should” look like anymore and that’s a good thing. Whether you’re drawn to bold colours, unusual settings, inclusive designs, ethical sparkle, or bespoke creations, the best engagement ring is the one that feels right for you.
If you’re ready to explore styles beyond the ordinary, take a peek at Lily Arkwright’s engagement ring collection for inspiration. Who knows your dream ring might just be waiting there, or you might feel inspired to design one from scratch.