Do Both Partners Wear Engagement Rings?

Either, both or neither partner can wear an engagement ring. It is a personal choice, and choosing two rings does not mean they have to match. You might both like a simple band, prefer completely different designs, or decide that only one of you wants to wear a ring.

By Rowan Aplin. Updated 20 October 2026.

The useful starting point is a conversation about what each of you would enjoy wearing. If one person loves jewellery and the other rarely wears it, there is room for both preferences.

Can men wear engagement rings?

Yes. A man can wear an engagement ring, whether that means a plain band or a design set with a stone. The same choice is open to couples of any gender; there is no need to fit your plans around someone else's expectations.

A band described as a wedding ring can also mark an engagement. Lily Arkwright's mens engagement rings collection includes plain bands in different profiles and finishes. The name of the collection does not decide what the ring means to you.

Choosing rings together

Matching, coordinating or completely different?

Matching rings can be a lovely shared detail, but you do not need to choose identical designs. You could use the same metal colour with different widths, choose a similar finish, or find two rings with nothing in common beyond the occasion.

A broad band may look right to one of you while the other prefers something slimmer. For a surprise proposal, you could discuss the overall style first, or agree to choose the final ring together afterwards.

Plain band or stone-set ring?

A plain band keeps the choice focused on its width, shape and finish. Compare a rounded profile with a flatter one, looking from the side as well as from above.

For a stone-set ring, consider how high the setting sits and how it feels against neighbouring fingers. A photograph can help you narrow down a style, but it cannot tell you whether a particular fit suits your hand.

Comfort, budget and timing

Decide which finger you intend to use before checking the size. Try a similar width and profile to the ring you want, then open and close your hand and notice whether the edges feel comfortable.

Think about your working day and hobbies too. If you need to remove jewellery for work or exercise, decide where you will keep the ring safely.

Set a budget that feels comfortable for you both. Two rings do not have to cost the same, and there is no set amount you need to spend. Before ordering, check the delivery date and the resizing, return and engraving conditions for the specific designs you have chosen.

Which hand and finger should you use?

You can choose the hand and finger that suit you. If a family or cultural custom matters to you, it can be part of the decision; it need not determine your partner's choice.

Plan ahead if you want to wear an engagement ring and a wedding band on the same finger. Try the two together before committing to either design. Check the combined width, comfort and whether their settings rub against one another. A visible gap between them may be something you like.

If you would rather wear the rings on separate hands, check the fit on each intended finger. Do not assume that a ring will fit equally well on the opposite hand.

What happens to engagement rings at the wedding?

You have a few options. You can keep wearing your engagement rings, set them aside during the ceremony, or move them to another finger if they fit comfortably. If you are exchanging wedding bands, agree how you want to handle the rings beforehand and discuss the practicalities with your officiant.

Afterwards, wear the rings in the order you prefer. You might put the wedding band below the engagement ring, reverse them, or wear one on each hand. You can also continue with a single ring, rather than buying another simply because you think you should.

Explore your options with Lily Arkwright

Start with the styles each of you likes, then compare the fit and finish in person where possible. If you prefer a stone-set design, you can consider lab-grown diamonds alongside other stone options. Check the specifications of the particular ring.

For a particular design idea, ask the team what is available or can be made to order, and confirm the price and lead time. You do not need to arrive at the same answer: choose rings that you will each feel happy wearing.