person wearing white holding a flower with engagement ring in platinum or white gold and wedding band in yellow gold visible
person wearing white holding a flower with engagement ring in platinum or white gold and wedding band in yellow gold visible

The Influence of Bridal Fashion on Engagement Ring Designs

Alicia Briggs | February 16, 2024

Bridal fashion and engagement rings are directly linked. Engagement ring design often inspires what the bride wears on their wedding day, while current bridal styles influence future engagement ring designs.

This article will guide you through the fascinating world of bridal fashion and engagement ring styles, with trend insights and wedding day styling inspiration.

Discover VRAI created diamond engagement rings and bridal jewelry to perfectly accessorize your special day.

Contemporary Bridal Fashion and Engagement Ring Design

Bridal fashion and engagement ring styles often reflect the current fashion trends. Contemporary bridal fashion is as diverse as it is dynamic, mirroring today's modern relationships.

“Bridal styling has leaned more towards minimalist, elegant, and timeless designs. We definitely see this trend in bridal jewelry as well,” explains Meg Esterkin, VRAI Luxury Sales & Design Expert. “We’re also seeing more funky, retro, and metal-heavy designs trending in bridal jewelry. This aligns with more vintage bridal styles gaining popularity.”

Engagement Ring Trends Inspired by Bridal Fashion

Below, we break down which top engagement ring trends are influenced by bridal styles.

Minimalism

In the realm of minimalism less is definitely more. Timeless, sleek silhouettes are favored by today’s future-thinking brides. Engagement rings inspired by this trend often feature clean, simple lines, expert craftsmanship, and a solitaire diamond.

Eclectic and Boho

Today’s bohemian brides are choosing delicate, artistic, boho chic designs that represent their unique style. Engagement rings echoing this trend might incorporate unique and mixed diamond shapes, colorful gemstones, and intricate detailing.

Vintage-Inspired

A vintage revival is taking center stage today. Many couples are favoring classic silhouettes of the past that embody something old and something new. Vintage-inspired diamond engagement rings that blend historical elegance with modern sensibilities have never been more popular.

Historic diamond shapes, like Emerald cut diamonds, and vintage settings like a Halo or Three Stone ring, are particularly trendy today.

Accent Colors

As color trends ebb and flow on the bridal runways, so do the hues of gemstones in engagement rings. Today, some brides are incorporating color accents into their gowns or veils.

For an engagement ring, colored gemstones or colored diamonds make the perfect accent. Mixed metal rings are also trending in engagement ring designs. Unique combinations like rose gold and platinum are adding extra sparkle and color.

Sustainability

As bridal fashion takes strides toward sustainability, so do engagement ring designs. The demand for ethically sourced materials and sustainable designs in both bridal wear and engagement rings has notably increased.

Shoppers are choosing lab-grown diamond engagement rings as an ethical diamond alternative. Just like recycled fabrics, recycled metals are also having a moment.

Customization

Bridal fashion and diamond engagement ring trends today are steering away from the traditional to the bespoke. People are choosing styles that celebrate individuality and their unique love above all else.

Customization reigns supreme in an era where everything can be personalized. From custom bridal gowns to custom-designed engagement rings, more shoppers are working directly with a designer to create a truly one-of-a-kind look.

How to Pair Engagement Rings and Wedding Dress

When it comes to bridal styling, few items take center stage like the wedding dress. Thankfully, with bridal fashion's influence on engagement rings, it's easy for brides-to-be to pair their ring with the gown.

Necklines to Diamond Lines

Let the neckline of your bridal gown reflect the lines of your diamond engagement ring. A plunging V-neck gown might harmonize with a V-shaped band, while a square neckline pairs perfectly with a square cut diamond. This subtle mirroring effect creates a cohesive, balanced look.

Dress Style and Ring Style

Let your engagement ring style influence your bridal gown style. Sleek, minimalist gowns can mirror the clean lines and understated elegance of a contemporary diamond ring. Alternatively, a vintage-inspired silhouette will look harmonious with a vintage engagement ring from the same past era.

Attention to Detail

Let your engagement ring setting inspire your wedding gown detailing. If your ring setting has a certain pattern or design, choose similar details for your dress. For example, engagement rings with delicate filigree might pair beautifully with a dress adorned with intricate lace detailing.

At the end of the day, your engagement ring and bridal styling should be a reflection of you. Let your taste and preferences guide your choices, and chances are, your final look will be harmonious and beautiful.

Discover Your Dream Engagement Ring at VRAI

Whether you’re looking for that perfect engagement ring design or shopping for bridal jewelry, VRAI is here to help. What sets VRAI apart is our VRAI created diamonds, unmatched in origin and quality. With a completely known origin from the very first atom, VRAI created diamonds are grown in the world’s first zero-emission foundry powered by 100% renewable energy.

Our lab-grown diamonds feature the top 1% cuts in the world, perfectly cut and polished by our fourth-generation trained master diamond cutters. Explore our assortment of fully customizable timeless yet modern engagement ring designs. You can also work with a VRAI master craftsman to create a custom diamond and design that truly reflects your unique personal style.

Bridal Fashion FAQ

Read on for answers to frequently asked questions about bridal styling.

How Should My Engagement Ring Complement My Wedding Dress?

If you want your engagement ring to complement your wedding dress, pick one or two design elements to match. For example, the dress cut may mirror the diamond cut, or you may choose similar patterns, colors, or styles.

Can My Engagement Ring Predict Bridal Fashion Trends?

Yes, your engagement ring can predict bridal fashion trends. Engagement rings often reflect and sometimes precede bridal trends. Keeping an eye on jewelry design can give insights into what might be the next big thing in bridal wear.

Should I Choose My Dress or Ring First to Ensure They Match?

It’s up to you whether you choose your dress or ring first to ensure they match. However, most people choose their engagement ring before their wedding dress. If that’s the case, then let your ring influence your wedding dress decision to create a cohesive wedding day look.

virtual appointment with diamond expert meeting with potential customers over a call on a computer
virtual appointment with diamond expert meeting with potential customers over a call on a computer

Consult with a diamond expert

Speak with our diamond experts and enjoy personalized guidance to select your ring, in-depth diamond 4C education, exclusive in-store fittings or virtual try-ons, custom design options.

Speak with our diamond experts and enjoy personalized guidance to select your ring, in-depth diamond 4C education, exclusive in-store fittings or virtual try-ons, custom design options.