Even during lockdown, love found a way to shine. Perhaps being at home actually brought couples even closer? We were honoured to create engagement rings with thoughtful clients who used this time of stand-still and reflection to ask the big question. Sometimes on a muddy walk, often as a spontaneous proposal, and always with a lot of love.
During this time some clear trends on ring styles have emerged. Here’s a look at the engagement ring styles that brought love in lockdown.
A common request we’ve had recently is for this engagement ring bands, known as narrow shanks. This style looks elegant, minimal, and pairs beautifully with most wedding bands.
That said, I always remind clients that it’s a balancing act. Go too thin, and the band can become more prone to bending or wear over time. I typically recommend no thinner than 1.8mm at the mid-point for strength and longevity.
If you’re after that ultra-delicate look, a knife-edge profile can be a clever choice. This gives the illusion of a super-fine band while maintaining the structure it needs for daily wear.
Another trend is the rise of custom details and meaningful personalisation. There is nothing quite like an engagement ring that reflects your own story – whether by a secret engraving, an unusual stone choice, the number of stones, or a non-traditional layout.
This is something I actively encourage. Engagement rings should feel deeply personal. You’re not just choosing a ring – you’re designing and creating a symbol of love, designed to be worn for a lifetime.
Geometric designs are having a moment. We’ve seen an increasing number of requests for faceted, structured shapes that give a contemporary edge to classic rings.
Albeit as the couple’s wedding ring, one of my favourite geometic designs recently has been a bespoke wedding band with a geometric faceted outer surface. It caught the light beautifully and added a subtle layer of design detail that felt both modern and timeless.
Vintage-inspired styles have also made a strong comeback. Think milgrain edges, fine beading, and intricate detail work; often paired with fancy cut diamonds to bring an updated twist.
I particularly loved crafting an Art Deco-inspired engagement ring with hand-applied milgrain edges. It had all the elegance of the past with a contemporary edge, and it felt like a true heirloom in the making.
If there’s one diamond shape that’s dominated our bench recently, it’s the oval cut. This shape flatters the finger, maximises sparkle (and surface area – also known as size!), and works beautifully with narrow bands. It’s especially beautiful paired with warm metals like 18ct yellow gold.
Here’s a recent example: a delicate oval solitaire set on a fine yellow gold band. Simple, timeless and flattering.
If you’re planning on proposing, we’d love to help you create a truly special ring. Whether you already know what you want or you’re starting from scratch, we’ll guide you through the process.
Get in touch for a bespoke consultation, or browse our past creations for inspiration. Whilst some trends come and go, love and proposals never go out of style – and neither will a beautifully made ring.
