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Wearing mismatched engagement and wedding rings is an excellent way to show off your style, express yourself and make the most of the designs and options available to you. There are endless ways to mix and match rings to create a cohesive style that works for you.
But is this the right style for you or are matching bands the way to go?
Let’s take a look.
Mismatched vs. Matching Wedding Bands
Traditionally, matching wedding and engagement bands have been the more popular option for brides. The same metals and style elements are often chosen together to create the perfect matching look.
When you search for an engagement ring, some retailers recommend the wedding band that it goes with. Here are two examples taken from James Allen:
Matching wedding bands look stylish and uniform. They can also be part of a trio set, with the groom’s wedding ring also featuring the same design elements. Some people love this look while others find it boring and want something different.
Mismatched wedding bands, on the other hand, allow for endless creativity and options, letting you express your personality. This is also the best option for people who start out with a unique ring, like an heirloom left them by a family member. In any case, mismatched bands allow you to create a combination that is unique to you.
This option is perfect for the bride who wants to be different and tread their own path, celebrating their unique style.
One thing to consider when opting for mismatched bands is whether you want a gap between the rings or for the rings to sit flush against each other. Most people prefer a wedding ring that sits next to the engagement band, with no gap in between. If you feel the same, look for an engagement ring that allows the wedding band to come up close. You can also have modifications done on either of the bands so they can be worn without a gap.
How to Choose Mismatched Wedding Bands?
While two completely random rings may work well together, there are some guidelines about finding two rings that are different but yet complementary. Not every ring combination will work, and some can bring out the worst in each other. Getting it right lies in the details. Here are some guidelines:
Mixing Metal Colors
Traditionally, mixing metals was seen as a fashion misstep but today, it’s a way to bring out interesting contrasts in your rings. White metals like platinum and white gold are the most popular option for engagement rings, with yellow and rose gold also being highly popular. However, there are a range of metals, including alternative options, to choose from for your rings.
Ring Set by Revolution BA. Check Price Here.
The rings featured above is the perfect example of different metals working together. The warm gold of the engagement ring paired with the rustic patina of the sterling silver creates a contrast that is as attractive as it’s unique.
Mixing Widths
Typically, the widths of both the engagement and wedding bands are the same in matching sets. However, by mixing these up, you can create a mismatched look, while still keeping the rings fairly uniform.
Morganite Rose Gold Rings by Capucinne. Check price HERE.
The ring set above features the trend of wide wedding bands paired with a thinner engagement ring. The overall look is compelling, making for a unique combination. What links the two rings together is that the same metal is used for both but, to add extra contrast, opt for different metal colors as well.
Choose a Classic
Classic Solitaire Ring. See It Here.
One way to make the mixed look work is to opt for a classic engagement ring, like a diamond solitaire. Diamonds with their neutral color are perfect for mixing and matching, while the classic solitaire design is versatile enough to blend with any type of wedding band. This would be an excellent option whether you have a vintage wedding band like this 1930s engraved ring or a stylish space age band like this carbon fiber one.
Mixing the Stone Shapes
Mixing the shapes of the diamonds or gemstones on your engagement and wedding bands is an easy way to achieve a mismatched look, while keeping the bands looking complementary.
This style of mismatched bands will work with eternity, flush set, channel or pave wedding bands paired with a solitaire stone featuring a different shape. Ideally, round and square or rectangle shapes go well together, providing a strong contrast. Other pairing options like a round eternity band paired with an oval or marquise solitaire engagement ring, would also create an interesting look.
Contrasting Finishes
Pairing two rings with different finishes is a simple way to bring a mismatched look to your two rings. This can be as jarring or as subtle as you wish it to be.
Check the Engagement Ring Here
Popular finishes for wedding rings include polished, satin, matte, brushed and hammered while engagement rings are almost always smoothly polished unless featuring stones on the shank. Less common finishes for wedding bands include cobblestone, rock hammered, wire brushed, sandblasted or crater.
Mixing Eras
Engagement and wedding bands of different eras often feature unique elements characteristic to their design periods. Think geometric styles of the Art Deco period, floral scrolls of the Art Nouveau era or the delicate filigree of the Edwardian years.
By placing rings with designs from different eras next to each other, you immediately create a mismatched look. But you can link them by opting for similar metals or other elements. For example, pair this 1920s Art Deco engagement ring with this Victorian patterned yellow gold wedding band for a truly unique look.
Finally…. You Do You
While these are basic guidelines to give you some inspiration as to ways to mix and match your wedding rings, at the end of the day, there are no hard and fast rules. Don’t be afraid to express yourself and your style.
If you want a wedding band with large diamonds and a small, minimalist engagement ring with a tiny stone, there’s no reason not to do that. If you find that it looks great, and you’re pleased with the end result, that’s what it all comes down to.
