He Wants Comfort, She Wants Diamonds: Top Wedding Bands Trends for 2016
Long gone are the days when a wedding ring was just a simple gold band. Today’s brides and grooms are opting for bold bands that express their unique style. Couples spend an average of $1,417 on her wedding band (up from $1,126 in 2011) and $558 on his band (up from $491 in 2011), according to The Knot. They're investing in bands that make a unique statement about their personal style and commitment to one another.From stacked eternity bands to colored statement stones and curved bands, these are the hottest trends to watch for in 2016:
1. Stacked eternity bands. More women are wearing their wedding bands as everyday, stand-alone pieces, even opting to wear their bands alone on their left hand and move the engagement ring to the right hand. Designer Per Gurary, who crafted Kate Bosworth’s bands, says eternity bands are one of the hottest trends in wedding jewelry. Bosworth’s gorgeous, custom bands are designed to fit around her vintage art deco engagement ring. One band has 12 horizontally set baguette stones representing each month of the year, Gurary tells Glamour Weddings.
Try this: Stackable eternity bands in yellow, rose and white gold make a timeless statement. Mixing the precious metal bands makes a colorful element, and ensures the ring will coordinate seamlessly with all jewelry.
2. Rose gold bands. Rose gold bands are not just for women! Men are getting in on the action, too, choosing a rose gold band to coordinate with a fiance's rose gold engagement ring. Rose gold's warmth evokes timeless romance, making it one of the most in-demand precious metals vintage-inspired wedding band designs. It's also a beautiful complement to a traditional yellow and white gold, and looks equally stunning in a modern style.
Try this: For a timeless look, opt for a simple band set with shimming round diamonds.
3. Comfort and style come together. No man (or woman!) wants to wear a ring that pinches the skin or is downright uncomfortable. That's why one of the hottest trends for men's wedding bands have been interiors that are curved, not flat. Some wedding bands also offer a bottom that is plain and tapered (with a more stylish top), so that bottom remains comfortable for daily wear and the ring's top remains unscathed.
Try this: If you lead an active lifestyle, you'll need a ring that can keep up. For durability, opt for platinum over gold. Avoid matte finishes and extra decorative finishes which can chip off and easily show scratches.
4. Meteorite makes a bold statement. Silver, gold and even platinum feel like old news next to a meteorite ring. Both boutique jewelers on Etsy and big names like David Yurman are offering rings with meteorite inlays. The meteorite is combined with a variety of different metals, including titanium, platinum and gold.
Try this: For a truly unique setting, take this ring up to the next level with the addition of a smooth, polished dinosaur fossil.