One question that frequently arises in the wedding industry is: do men wear engagement rings? The answer is yes, men do wear engagement rings, though it’s not yet as common as women wearing them. This practice is becoming increasingly popular as couples seek more equal expressions of commitment. Let’s explore the history, current trends, and considerations around men’s engagement rings.
Men’s Engagement Rings Today
So, do men wear engagement rings today? The answer, increasingly, is yes. Men’s engagement rings are gaining popularity for several compelling reasons:
- Equal partnership: Many couples view engagement as a mutual commitment deserving of matching symbols
- Visibility: A ring signals to others that a person is committed
- Celebrity influence: Public figures like Ed Sheeran and Michael Bublé have popularized male engagement rings
- Changing gender norms: Traditional gender-based customs are evolving across many aspects of relationships
What Do Men’s Engagement Rings Look Like?
Men’s engagement rings typically differ stylistically from those designed for women:
- Band-style designs: Many men prefer wider bands with less prominent gemstones
- Material choices: Popular options include titanium, tungsten, white gold, yellow gold, or platinum
Unlike women’s engagement rings that often feature prominent center stones, men’s engagement rings frequently showcase more understated designs. The focus tends to be on durability, comfort, and personal style rather than a large prominent center stone.
So, Do Men Wear Engagement Rings?
Ultimately, whether a man wears an engagement ring is entirely a personal decision. There are no hard rules dictating who should wear what, and couples are increasingly free to create their own traditions that best symbolize their unique relationship.
What matters most isn’t following prescribed customs but honoring your partnership in ways that feel meaningful to both of you. Whether that means two engagement rings, one, or none at all, the choice is yours to make together.
Men’s Engagement Rings FAQ
Which finger or hand should a man wear his engagement ring on?
Different countries have varying traditions:
- In the US, UK, and many Western countries, engagement rings are typically worn on the left hand
- In countries like Austria, Norway, Germany, and Russia, the right hand is more common
Learn more in our guide.
What do men do with their engagement ring after the wedding?
Men who wear engagement rings have several options when it comes time for the wedding:
- Move the engagement ring to the right hand
- Replace the engagement ring with a wedding band
- Wear both rings on the same finger
- Incorporate the engagement ring into a wedding band design
Who should pay for the man’s engagement ring?
Like many aspects of modern relationships, there’s no single “right” approach:
- The person proposing may purchase both rings
- Each partner may buy the other’s ring
- Couples might shop together and share the cost
