There's a reason classic solitaire engagement rings have never gone out of fashion. They're elegant, timeless and suit almost every style. It's why they're still the ring many couples choose today.
That doesn't mean nothing changes, though. Jewellery trends continue to evolve, with certain styles becoming more sought after, often influenced by celebrity engagements and changing tastes. Recently, wider bands, oval diamonds and vintage-inspired designs have all enjoyed renewed attention, while practical settings are becoming just as important as appearance.
If you're shopping for a ring, here are some of the engagement ring trends expected to remain popular throughout the rest of 2026 and into 2027.
Oval diamonds continue to attract attention
While the round brilliant remains the classic choice, oval diamonds have become increasingly common in jewellers' collections. They offer plenty of sparkle and their elongated shape can make the stone appear larger than a round diamond of the same weight.
Emerald, pear and marquise cuts are also proving popular with buyers looking for something slightly different without moving too far away from a traditional engagement ring.
One style that's helping these diamond shapes stand out is the east-west setting. Rather than sitting upright, the stone is turned horizontally across the finger, giving an otherwise familiar design a more contemporary feel.
Yellow gold is enjoying a revival
As we mentioned in a previous blog, yellow gold has firmly re-established itself.
Modern yellow gold engagement rings don't necessarily look vintage. Instead, many feature clean, contemporary settings that allow the diamond to remain the centre of attention while adding warmth that complements both natural and lab-grown stones.
Practicality is influencing design choices
One of the biggest changes in recent years isn't simply how engagement rings look, but how people expect them to perform.
Many buyers wear their engagement ring every day, whether they're commuting, exercising or working in professions where their hands are constantly in use. That has helped fuel demand for bezel settings, where the diamond is surrounded by a protective rim of precious metal instead of traditional claws.
The design gives the ring a sleek, modern appearance while offering greater protection against everyday knocks and making it less likely to catch on clothing.
Wide bands, including the increasingly popular cigar band, are also attracting buyers looking for an engagement ring that's both stylish and practical. While celebrity engagement rings have helped bring the look into the spotlight, many couples are choosing these thicker bands because they suit modern lifestyles. They offer a more substantial feel, are often more comfortable for everyday wear and are generally less prone to bending than very fine bands.
Vintage details continue to inspire modern engagement rings
While some buyers search for genuine antique rings, many are choosing newly crafted pieces inspired by historical jewellery.
Design features such as Art Deco styling, elongated cushion diamonds and Old Mine cut inspired stones all create a sense of individuality without sacrificing the reassurance of modern craftsmanship.
Romance is influencing ring design too
Some engagement ring styles become fashionable because of how they look. Others become popular because of what they represent.
The Toi et Moi design, which translates as "You and Me", features two stones sitting side by side to symbolise two lives coming together. Although the style dates back more than 200 years, recent celebrity engagements have introduced it to a new generation.
Today's versions often combine different diamond cuts or pair a diamond with a coloured gemstone such as an emerald or sapphire, giving every ring its own personality.
Lab-grown diamonds are part of the conversation
Lab-grown diamonds are now firmly established alongside natural diamonds. Chemically, physically and optically identical to their natural counterparts, they can allow buyers to choose a larger or higher-quality stone within their budget. Natural diamonds, however, continue to appeal to those who value their rarity and heirloom potential, giving couples plenty of choice to suit their preferences.
Choosing the right engagement ring for you – and protecting it
Many couples are choosing rings that reflect their own taste and lifestyle rather than simply following fashion. Whatever the style, the best engagement ring is one you'll love wearing for years to come.
And once you've found the perfect ring, it's also worth thinking about how you'll protect it financially against the unexpected.
An engagement ring is often one of your most valuable possessions, so it's worth checking whether your home insurance provides sufficient cover and whether any single-item limits or security requirements apply. If not, specialist engagement ring insurance may offer protection against risks such as theft, accidental loss and accidental damage, and may also include worldwide cover (subject to the policy terms and conditions).
