A Guide To Simple Wedding Rings For Men & Women_cover

A Guide To Simple Wedding Rings For Men & Women

Now that you’ve found the perfect partner, it’s time to start the hunt for the perfect wedding rings!

Simple Wedding Rings for Men & Women

When it comes to wedding rings, sometimes simple is better. If you’re not used to wearing showy or ornate jewelry, there are plenty of options that are both subtle and stylish. Whether you’re looking for something dainty, thin, or classic, there is a simple wedding band out there that you’ll never want to take off!

Remember, paring down on opulence doesn’t mean paring down on beauty! A minimalist wedding band is often more practical for everyday wear while remaining sophisticated and striking. 

We’re here to guide you through the process and help you find the perfect simple wedding bands for you and your partner! Go out and find your favorite forever rings!

What Is A Wedding Ring?

Your wedding rings are going to be the most important pieces of jewelry you and your partner own: you’ll likely wear them every single day! The two rings will be presented at the wedding ceremony to symbolize the lifelong union between you and your partner. 

Whether you opt for matching wedding bands, alternative metals, or carved patterns, make sure they mean something special to both of you! Whenever you look down at that special ring, you’ll be reminded of your loved one and the bond you share!

Engagement Ring vs. Wedding Ring

We all know that the engagement ring is a vital part of any proposal- but people often mistake it for the wedding band. There are actually several key differences between the two rings and what they symbolize!

An engagement ring is received at the time of the marriage proposal. In traditional proposals, women receive the ring and wear it until the time of the wedding. While engagement rings can vary in style and extravagance, they typically feature a center diamond and can be embellished with extra diamonds and intricate details. The engagement ring is worn on what is known as “the ring finger”, or the third finger on the left hand. 

Unlike engagement rings, wedding bands are exchanged at the wedding ceremony and worn by both partners. Due to their traditionally simple design and lack of gemstones, they typically cost less than engagement rings.

Many brides wear their engagement rings on their right hand during the ceremony and then move them back to their left hand so they can stack both rings. 

Keep in mind, there is no right or wrong way to symbolize your marriage! Two rings, one ring, or no ring- opt for whatever feels right to you.

Simple Wedding Rings For Women

Classic Wedding Bands

Classic wedding bands for women are traditionally on the thinner side and typically 14K yellow gold, white gold, rose gold, or platinum.

Classic wedding bands are ideal if you plan on stacking your two rings- a thin gold metal band will compliment your engagement ring beautifully!

Stackable Wedding Rings

Stackable wedding rings are a trendy way to showcase your personal style wherever you go. They give you the option to show off or stay low-key for everyday wear or formal events.

Stackable rings can be anything from diamond rings to plain metal rings, to gemstone rings – the choice is yours! A ring stack can commemorate your engagement, your wedding, and your anniversary- all in one!

14K Yellow Gold Petite Solitaire Oval Cut Diamond Ring

Dainty Wedding Rings

Not every bride wants a huge rock sitting on her finger- and that’s totally OK! There are plenty of smaller, simpler, and dantier rings that are just as special. A ring is usually considered dainty when it has a thin band and a smaller stone- if any stone at all. 

Donning a simple wedding ring doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice on style. Dainty wedding rings are classic, easy to clean, and great for those who prefer a more understated look.

  • 14K White Gold Alternating Bead And Bezel Set Marquise Diamond Ring
  • 14K White Gold North South Diamond Ring
  • 14K White Gold Vintage Marquise And Round Bezel Diamond Ring
  • 14K White Gold Single Row Ever After Diamond Ring

Simple Wedding Bands For Men

Classic wedding bands

It’s hard to go wrong with a classic wedding band. Simple, sleek, and certainly timeless, classic bands are ideal for most lifestyles and preferences. The yellow gold classic men’s wedding band is a popular option that has truly stood the test of time. 

Men’s classic wedding bands tend to be on the thicker side but come in a variety of comfort-fit settings that can be domed, curved, or flat. 

18K Yellow Gold 5mm Slightly Domed Comfort Fit Wedding Ring

Thin wedding bands

You may feel that the tradition of wearing a thick wedding band is not for you. But don’t worry, you can always opt for a ring on the thinner side. There are plenty of men who rock bands that are under 7mm!

If your ring size is smaller than 9, consider a thinner style, like a 4mm men’s gold wedding band, so the ring doesn’t power over your fingers. 

A thin wedding ring in 14K white or yellow gold offers low-profile style with plenty of appeals.

Alternative metal wedding bands

If your lifestyle requires you to use your hands a lot, you may want to look into alternative metal wedding bands. If you lift weights or come into close contact with strong machinery often, look for a durable metal like tantalum. Tantalum rings won’t scratch or damage easily, so you can use your hands with ease. 


A gray or black wedding ring is a great way to mix things up a bit and show off your personal style. Alternative metal wedding rings always make a bold statement and always turn heads. Men’s titanium wedding bands, for example, are edgy and sophisticated. Titanium is a great option for those looking to cut down on the budget. If taking the road less traveled sounds appealing to you, check out our extensive list of black wedding rings.

Black Tungsten Carbide 6MM Bright Step Band By TRITON

What Is The Average Cost Of Wedding Rings?

Generally, the average wedding ring costs less than an engagement ring. Most couples spend around $1,000 on the bride’s wedding band and $500 on the groom’s. But remember: it doesn’t matter if you spend $200 or $2,000- it’s what the ring symbolizes that counts!

Who Is Supposed To Buy The Wedding Rings?

In a traditional wedding, each partner will pay for the other’s ring. But don’t feel compelled to follow suit! If tradition is not for you, one partner can pay for both- or the other can. You can even shop for them together! Make sure to do whatever feels right for you and your loved one.

Simple Engagement And Wedding Ring Combinations

The sky’s the limit with engagement and wedding ring combinations- even if you want to keep things simple! 

While it may be trendy to mismatch the metal types of your two rings, you can opt for keeping them the same for a more simple and streamlined look. A simple gold or platinum band will compliment a solitaire engagement ring beautifully, for example. 

Choosing a simple, thin band will add to your engagement ring without drawing focus away from its center stone.

FAQs About Simple Wedding Rings

  1. What’s the difference between wedding rings vs. wedding bands? 

There is no difference! The terms wedding ring and wedding band are used interchangeably. 

  1. Do you need to have a wedding ring? 

Nope! There is no right or wrong way to symbolize the union between you and your partner. Some people wear one ring, some wear two or more, some don’t wear anything at all! Whether it’s a matter of preference, cost, or lifestyle, decide on whatever makes you feel good. 

  1. Which hand do you wear my wedding ring on? 

Traditionally, both men and women wear their wedding rings on their fourth finger on their left hand. In some cultures, women wear their rings on their right hand. 

  1. Do you wear your wedding ring and engagement ring together?

You totally can if you want to! Those that do, typically wear their wedding ring first and their engagement ring on top. But, you can feel free to wear one ring on your right hand and the other on your left. Personal preference is always key!

Parting Thoughts

Finding the perfect wedding ring is an exciting challenge! From cost to style to metal, it can certainly feel overwhelming. But remember: you can choose to match, to mismatch, to go down the traditional route, to be bold and alternative, to pay for them alone or together- it’s all up to you!

There are no rules on how to wear a simple wedding ring. Make sure you’re doing only what feels right, comfortable, and exactly to your taste!

We’re certain the ring of your dreams is out there! You can start your search at Jamesallen.com

Rachel Glassman

Rachel is fond of the written word and the moving image- and will talk about both with anyone who will listen!

More Posts

Blog---Trending-Wedding-Bands-For-Spring_cover

Spring-Inspired Wedding Bands For Couples

Spring is around the corner, and we’ve rounded up all of our favorite spring-inspired wedding rings for you and your partner. Keep reading to find the perfect pair! 

Spring-Inspired Wedding Bands For Couples

Walking down the aisle this spring? We’ve got the perfect selection of spring-inspired wedding rings for you and your love to make your fresh and fun day sparkle. 

Spring is the perfect time of year to say “I do.” This season represents new beginnings and what better way to start off your life together as a married couple than during a time when everything around you is blossoming? Good vibes, total check! 

If you’re not getting married this spring, but you’re in love with spring-inspired wedding rings, we’ve got you covered, too.

Let’s dive right in.

Spring Wedding Rings: Nature’s Treat 

We know you know the famous quote by Devil Wears Prada character Miranda Priestly, “Florals? For spring? Groundbreaking.” But believe us when we say there are many floral and nature-inspired wedding bands that have been more than just groundbreaking; they’ve shook us down to our sparkling core. 

Outdoor patterns can offer a unique aesthetic to an otherwise plain band. Vine and leaf-patterned rings have a unique and earthy look, and while they’re not for everyone, these bands could be the perfect extension of your personal style and tastes. 

Here are a few stunning options for the women: 

Vine Motif Diamond Ring

14K White Gold Vine Motif Diamond Ring

Add a few delicate dimensions to your wedding band with this detailed vintage vine motif. 

Barley Marquise Diamond Ring

14K White Gold Barley Marquise Diamond Ring

Want something with earthy romance that shines from every angle? Look no further. 

Fellas, we haven’t forgotten about you. Here are our top picks for nature-inspired men’s wedding bands. From bold and dark to light and modern, we’ve got a couple of stellar options for our outdoor-loving grooms-to-be. 

Blackened Forrest Pattern Comfort Fit Ring

14K White Gold Blackened Forrest Pattern Comfort Fit Ring

Try this band on for size if you want that spring feel with a bolder color. 

Platinum And Rose Gold Vintage Script Band

Platinum And Rose Gold Vintage Script Band

This carved vintage scroll is not only a keeper, and it’s a customer favorite! 

Springtime Wedding Rings For Eternity 

Springtime comes with vibrant colors aplenty and the possibility of blooming romance. Why not invest in a fresh wedding ring that will make you burst with excitement each time it catches your eye? 

Eternity-style wedding rings are the perfect choice for those who love the idea that their ring will represent their eternal love and, better yet, sparkle from every angle! 

For the ladies, we recommend going a little against the norm and trying an eternity ring with fancy-shaped diamonds. If you love spring, you’ll love the different dimensions an emerald or oval cut diamond can give your ideal diamond wedding band

Oval Cut Eternity Ring

14K White Gold Oval Cut Diamond Eternity Ring (2 CTW H-I / SI1-SI2)

Pick an oval cut ring if you’d love more finger coverage. 

Emerald Cut Eternity Ring

14K White Gold Emerald Cut Diamond Eternity Ring (2 CTW H-I / SI1-SI2)

Go with an emerald cut if you’re all about effortless glamor.

For the gents, why not adopt your own version of an eternity ring with a masculine edge? Channel set wedding bands are versatile and can be set with the diamonds or gemstones of your choice. The romantic symbolism is still there with a pop of color or sparkle, and your unique wedding ring will still be thick and durable. 

Comfort-Fit Channel Set Sapphire Ring

14K White Gold 7.5mm Comfort-Fit Channel Set Sapphire Ring

Add a little gemstone glow to your forever ring. 

Comfort-Fit Channel Set Diamond Band

Platinum 8mm Comfort-Fit Channel Set Diamond Band

Handsome is as handsome sparkles.

Wedding Rings For Spring: A Pop Of Color 

Sometimes spring wedding rings call for vibrant color without the added engravings and sparkle. Plain wedding bands made from different gold tones can give you a dazzling springtime feel without moving away from that classic look. 

Thin, rounded rings are not only elegant, but their warm shades will keep you glowing even during those colder months. They’re so versatile they fit with just about any engagement ring style, and as a bonus, they look perfect on their own, too.

These are our top picks for her: 

Rose Gold Rounded Ring

14K Rose Gold Rounded Ring

This thin band is dainty and perfect to stack with any other ring.

Yellow Gold Rounded Ring

14K Yellow Gold Rounded Ring

Get that perfect golden glow you can keep going all year round. 

Sometimes thin band rings are not the best option for men working with their hands or those who have very active lifestyles, so keeping that in mind, we’ve got some colorful yet sturdy options. One of our favorite styles is the up-and-coming two-toned rings that perfectly symbolize the joining of two partners. 

Center Groove Satin Finish Band

14K Yellow Gold Center Groove Comfort Fit Satin Finish Band

Keep the sunny vibes going with a comfortable fit. 

Centric Two-Tone Brushed Band

14K White Gold 7MM Centric Two Tone Brushed Band

You can have it ALL with a two-toned ring. 

Spring Wedding Rings On A Budget

Looking for something with mother nature’s special touch that works for your budget? Sometimes traditional wedding bands just won’t cut it, and you want your ring to make a statement without breaking the bank. Luckily for you, there are plenty of wedding band options that have that added diamond sparkle without taking away too much attention from the engagement ring or your planned budget.

Check out our beautiful James Allen rings, all under $500. 

Shared Prong Diamond Ring

14K Yellow Gold Shared Prong Contour Diamond Ring (0.25 CTW)

“This band is perfect! I love the scalloped side profile, and it looks amazing with my engagement ring. Don’t hesitate to buy this ring online.” – Megan K. 

Alternating Beaded Diamond Ring

“I was hesitant in ordering online without trying it on, but I took my chances, and it turned out great!” – Jenny

Cable Accent Ring

14K Rose Gold Cable Accent Ring

“It’s perfect. Exactly what I was looking for. It’s small and dainty but has so much character.” -Mariah F.

Vintage Marquise Bezel Ring

14K White Gold Vintage Marquise And Round Bezel Diamond Ring

“It’s petite size is not to be underestimated, as it has all the detail and beauty that makes it stand out remarkably.” – Bob L 

Still not sure which spring wedding rings you and your partner should go for? Get in touch with us at JamesAllen.com with any questions you have. Our diamond and jewelry experts are available to you 24/7 and are happy to help you find the ring of your dreams. 

Need some more wedding ring inspo? Check out these related posts:

Subscribe to our email list for access to secret sales, practical ring-buying tips, and $100 off your first order!

Jessica Thomas

Jessica feels too much anxiety trying to come up with a cool bio. Read her awesome blog post instead.

More Posts - Website

WhatsApp Image 2021-11-23 at 18.12.06 (20)

How To Wear Stackable Rings

When is an engagement ring more than an engagement ring? When it’s part of a stackable wedding set! A wedding set can contain more than an engagement ring and a wedding ring – and we’ll show you how to create your custom wedding stack with stackable wedding rings!

Stackable rings

Here’s how to stack the deck in your favor: start with your engagement ring. Have a good look at its characteristics and choose a matching wedding ring. In many cases, this is where the complementary calculations stop. However, most people, over the course of their married lives, mark special occasions with meaningful rings. And these subsequent, stackable rings can become part of an incredible ring stack that will be all yours.

Engagement ring + wedding ring + …? 

Which stackable wedding rings will make their way into your stack? You’ve got options. 

Anniversary rings

What’s the most obvious continuation to a wedding stack? An anniversary stack! An anniversary ring can look however you’d like, but traditionally each diamond on an anniversary ring represents a year of married life. Have a look at our full anniversary ring gallery and see which setting you love best. 

Graduation rings

Do you know what complements a shiny new diploma? A shiny new ring! It’s actually becoming quite popular to celebrate a graduation with an engagement-style ring: a metal band with a stunning center stone.

Marking the birth of a baby

You’ve brought an actual life into the world. Wow. You’re kind of a hero. New mothers deserve new sparkle, that’s what we always say. Choose your baby’s birthstone or a diamond representing the baby’s order: 1 diamond for your first child, 2 for your second, etc.

Birthday rings

30? 50? 77? Which birthday is particularly significant for you? Mark the occasion with a ring in your birthstone or your favorite metal!

Memorial rings

Keep the memory of a loved one present and close to your heart with a meaningful ring. It could be their birthstone or a particular pattern that reminds you of them. 

Accomplishment rings

You’ve gotten a raise, you’ve beaten an illness, you’ve achieved a long-held personal goal. Celebrate yourself, or recognize a loved one who’s done something incredible that doesn’t deserve to go overlooked.

How do I stack my wedding set?

There are quite a few ways to wear a wedding set, and the same goes for the rings you stack onto it. 

  • If you wear your wedding and engagement ring together, you can place your subsequent rings on either side of your stack.
  • If you wear your wedding and engagement rings on opposite hands, then you can add rings to either hand according to whatever looks best.

Of course, you can also add rings to fingers that aren’t sporting your two stunners, but then it wouldn’t be a ring stack, would it?

Open Ring Stacks

If you’ve got a ring with an elongated center stone like marquise, oval, or pear, then open stackable wedding rings are quite a fitting option. The end of your engagement ring stone will nestle smoothly into the gap of your open ring. 

Split-Shank Marquise Diamond Engagement Ring


Single- and Double-Banded Rings

This is the blingy choice! Choose the single band as your wedding ring, and save the double for your next special occasion – or vice versa. No matter what, your wedding stack is going to pop.

Channel-Set Cushion-Cut Diamond Engagement Ring

Curved Wedding Rings

Curved stackable wedding rings look amazing with uniquely-shaped engagement rings. And you can keep adding curved wedding rings, either identical or in variations, to your stack throughout the years. 

The Delicate Stack

Keep your stack simple and elegant with minimalist rings! This ensemble complements a less-ornate engagement ring like a solitaire or bezel-set ring. 

Crown Basket Solitaire Engagement Ring

Yellow Gold and Diamond-Forward

Give your ring stack a sunny shine with these exceptional yellow gold rings. With unparalleled designs you won’t find anywhere else, these singular rings are deserving of a solid gold match. 

Baguette-Cut Diamond Engagement Ring

A Bouquet of Rose Gold

Rose gold is both sturdy and gorgeous: the copper content that gives it its characteristic rosy shine also makes it pretty low-maintenance. Rose gold rings retain their shine. No tarnish, no way! 

Pavé Emerald-Cut Diamond Engagement Ring

In Other Words…

You don’t have to start planning a wedding ring stack the moment the proposal’s over, but it’s good to keep it in mind. Most ring-wearers add rings to their stack to mark meaningful occasions: most commonly anniversaries, but also for a wide range of personal milestones. Whatever your ring signifies, you can stack it any which way you want. It can hug your wedding ring, your engagement ring, or even go in between if you’d like. Stack it as high as you’d like! Why stop at just three rings?

More Blow-Your-Stack Jewelry

Subscribe to our email list for access to secret sales, practical ring-buying tips, and $100 off your first purchase!

Rachel Hoar

Rachel is an unabashed linguistics fanatic who can identify the ancient Greek root of any word. She promises not to spray you with Windex.

More Posts