Wedding band styles fall into five main groups: plain bands, diamond set bands, shaped bands, textured bands and mixed metal bands. The right choice depends on whether it will sit beside an engagement ring, how hands on your daily life is and whether you want it to stand out or stay quiet. See our wedding bands page for how we commission each style.
This guide gives an overview of each style, with links to our more detailed guides where you want to go further.
1. Plain bands
A plain polished band is the classic choice. The main decisions are metal, width and profile. Profiles include court, which is rounded inside and out, D shape, flat and bevelled. You also choose the inside fit: our guide to comfort fit vs standard fit explains the difference, and our wedding band width guide helps with proportions.
2. Diamond set bands
- Pavé. Small diamonds held by tiny beads for an even line of sparkle.
- Channel set. Stones held between two walls of metal, a smooth and practical option.
- Half or full eternity. Stones running part way or all the way round. Our guide to full vs half eternity rings compares them.
- Flush or scattered. One or several diamonds sunk into the band for a subtle twinkle.
3. Shaped bands
Shaped bands are designed to sit around an engagement ring. Contoured bands follow its outline, while notched bands have a small cut out for the setting. They are the answer when a straight band leaves a gap. Read our guide to contoured and notched wedding bands for the detail.
Photo: Rimiscky Tayuna via Pexels.
4. Textured and patterned bands
- Brushed or satin. A soft matt finish that hides fine scratches well.
- Hammered. A handmade, organic surface.
- Milgrain. A row of tiny metal beads along the edge for a vintage feel.
- Engraved. Patterns on the outside, or a message on the inside.
5. Mixed metal bands
Two tone bands combine metals, for example a white gold centre with yellow gold edges. They can tie together an engagement ring and a watch in different metals, or simply add interest to a plain style.
Choosing a style next to an engagement ring
If the band will sit beside an engagement ring, start with how the two fit together, then pick a style that supports the engagement ring rather than competing with it. Our guide to choosing a wedding band to match your engagement ring walks through it step by step.
Choosing a style on its own
If the band will be worn alone, think about daily life. Plain and channel set styles suit active hands, while pavé and textured bands bring more personality. Men's bands are often wider, with flat or bevelled profiles and brushed finishes.
Matching or not matching
Couples do not need to match. Many choose bands in the same metal with different widths or finishes, or add a shared detail such as matching engraving inside.
Designing yours with us
Every piece is designed with you in CAD first, and you can have as many revisions as you need, within reason. Once you are happy, a 70% deposit starts the making. Your piece is crafted by specialist goldsmiths, UK hallmarked and sent by insured tracked courier. Diamonds come with a GIA or IGI report. Bespoke rings start from £600.
Browse our lab grown diamonds, design your bespoke engagement ring, or read about the bespoke journey to see how a commission works from first chat to delivery.
Frequently asked questions
What are the main wedding band styles?
Plain, diamond set, shaped, textured and mixed metal bands.
What wedding band style is most practical?
Plain and channel set bands are practical for active hands, as there is little to catch or loosen.
Do wedding bands need to match?
No. Many couples choose the same metal with different widths, finishes or details.
What style goes with a low set engagement ring?
A contoured or notched band often sits closer to a low set engagement ring than a straight band.