Your wedding jewelry is an important part of the look you want to achieve on your big day. You’ll want your accessories to complement your bridal style and gown, whether it’s for tradition, to honor those who can’t attend, or to wear something borrowed to bring good luck.

Balance is key, and remember that your dress should be the icing on the cake. These expert tips will help you choose the perfect wedding rings for men and for women:

Engagement Rings

Engagement rings are typically worn only by women and serve as a symbol for a future marriage. They are usually a simple band, which is given at the time of the proposal. It often features a small gemstone or diamond. Engagement rings and matching wedding bands are often worn together to signify the promise of a lifetime of love and commitment. While tradition dictates a bride wear both her wedding and engagement ring, there is an increasing trend to choose to wear only one.

wedding rings for men

While choosing a ring, it is important to consider your and your partner’s personal style and preferences. You may want to wear an engagement ring that has a sleek pave setting with a plain metal marriage band. Or you may want to wear one with a halo style engagement ring. You can also have a wedding band custom-made with engravings or other gemstones.

Regardless of your style, you should spend time shopping and browsing rings before making a decision. This will give a good idea of the styles and what is available. It is also a good idea to visit more than one jeweler to get a feel for the jewelry selection and pricing.

Once you’ve chosen your ring, it is important to have the ring professionally cleaned and polished on a regular basis to keep it in great shape. You’ll want to avoid wearing your ring in harsh environments or while doing strenuous activities, and you should always remove it before swimming or washing your hands.

In the old days, the practice was to present an engagement ring at a proposal in order to demonstrate the wealth and status of the man. Today, this practice is mainly symbolic and marks the beginnings of a future marriage.

Tradition dictates that the engagement ring be worn on the fourth left-hand finger. This finger was thought to contain a vein which led directly to your heart. The ring’s round shape was thought to represent eternity, faithfulness, and infinity.

Wedding Bands

The wedding ring is the ultimate symbol for love and commitment. It is worn as a pair with the engagement band and can either match the style or complement it. Traditionally, the rings are worn on the left hand because it was believed that the vein in this finger led directly to the heart. Some brides today choose to wear their wedding rings on the right hand. It is completely up to the bride to decide what feels best and how she would like to wear her wedding ring set.

Wedding bands are available in a variety of designs, including plain or intricately adorned with diamonds or gems. They are typically a bit thinner and worn alone or stacked up with other thin bands. The most common wedding ring is the white gold band. However, other metals like yellow and rose gold as well as platinum and palladium can also be used to create unique ring sets.

Wedding bands are available in a wide range of designs. These include florals, hearts, stars and initials. Engraving your ring can add a personal element. It can be done either by hand or machine. Remember that more intricate engravings are harder to maintain and can trap dirt. Also, any additional designs or embellishments will add to the cost of your wedding band.

Most brides will select a wedding band in the same metal as their engagement ring to create a matching set, but there are no rules and you may also choose to mix metal hues for a more unique look. For example, if you have a platinum engagement ring with baguettes, you may want to select a hammered gold wedding band.

It is always a smart idea to purchase your wedding ring early, especially when you have a design in mind that includes gemstones and diamonds. You will have plenty of time to make the necessary adjustments and avoid delays on your wedding day if you shop early.

Earrings

Earrings play a vital role in a bride’s look on her wedding day. They are the perfect finishing touch to enhance your bridal gown and bring out the sparkle in your eyes. There is a style for every neckline, whether you want to go simple or make a statement.

Stud earrings are the most popular choice for brides as they are both classic and elegant. They sit snugly against the earlobe, and don’t fall down. This makes it easy to wear them with any type of hairstyle.

Opt for hoops if you want something more ornate. They are usually circular and can be embellished with pearls or floral motifs for an ornate and intricate finish. Shoulder dusters are long earrings that brush the shoulders and can be a beautiful complement to a wide variety of gowns. If you want to add a pop of color to your earrings, choose a pair of colored pearls. These come in a variety of shades, from soft pink and peach to golden, silver and iridescent Tahitian black pearls.

If you’re a fan of the ear cuff trend, try pairing your studs with a gemstone ear cuff for a subtle and modern take on your “something blue.” Or, if you prefer to go with a more traditional earring choice, select a gold or sapphire set.

When choosing earrings, keep in mind that you’ll be wearing them day and night. They will also appear in your wedding photos. You need to choose earrings that are comfortable to wear for long periods of time, and that won’t damage or interfere with your delicate wedding gown.

While necklaces may compete with or clash with a dress’ neckline, a beautiful pair of earrings will complement your gown and show off your feminine beauty. Your wedding earrings are the only jewelry that will frame and enhance your face.

Necklaces

Your jewelry should be able to complement your gown, and show off your bridal style. The best way to do this is by selecting the right chain length. A longer chain can be used to accent the dip in a sweetheart dress or V-neck dress. A shorter chain works well with a strapless collar.

Consider the type of gemstones, pearls or metals in your necklace. A luminous strand made of white pearls can be a beautiful standalone piece and complement most dresses. If you are shopping for a necklace with a pendant, consider the size and shape of the gemstone or diamond. Choose a chain large enough to draw the eye to the focal point.

If you choose a diamond necklace or gemstone necklace, 1mm chain will allow the central piece to shine. It will also keep it light and dainty. A thicker, heavier chain, on other hand, may overwhelm the design.