The Engagement Rings Everyone's Obsessing Over in 2026

Want to make a classic diamond shape feel instantly modern? Turn it sideways. East-west settings—where the center stone is set horizontally instead of vertically—are absolutely exploding in popularity right now.

The Zendaya Factor

Zendaya's engagement ring, featuring a cushion-cut diamond set east-west, caused searches for this style to skyrocket. And for good reason—it's elegant, unexpected, and incredibly flattering.

Why It Works

The horizontal orientation creates a sleek, elongated silhouette that looks stunning on the finger. It transforms familiar cuts like oval, emerald, and marquise into something that feels contemporary and fashion-forward. Plus, it's distinctive without being loud—the kind of detail that makes people do a double-take in the best way.

East-west settings work beautifully in any metal (yellow gold for warmth, platinum for cool sophistication, rose gold for something romantic) and they pair perfectly with the chunky band trend we talked about earlier.

If you thought delicate, barely-there bands were forever, think again. 2026 is all about substantial, sculptural gold that has presence and weight.

We're talking thick yellow gold bands that feel like a statement in themselves, wide platinum bands with clean architectural lines, and dome-shaped rings that have this gorgeous, organic quality. These aren't just "settings" for your diamond—they're integral to the whole design, creating a look that's cohesive, intentional, and seriously striking.

Why Everyone's Loving Them

There's something incredibly satisfying about a ring that feels substantial on your hand. These chunky bands have heft and permanence—they feel like heirloom pieces from day one. They're also practical in the best way: you can wear them solo without feeling like something's missing, they're durable enough for everyday life, and they provide the perfect canvas for engraving something meaningful.

Plus, they just look good. Really good. A thick yellow gold band with a classic diamond solitaire hits that sweet spot between timeless and totally now. It's traditional enough to feel classic but bold enough to feel fresh.

The Dua Lipa Effect

Speaking of bold bands, Dua Lipa's engagement ring basically broke the internet with its chunky, cigar-style band and modern, almost tension-set stone. It's sculptural, it's contemporary, and it perfectly captures what people are gravitating toward right now: rings that look like wearable art.

Round diamonds have long been the preferred choice for the centrepiece of engagement rings, but this year, oval-shaped diamonds have risen to match their popularity.

Both the oval and round shapes offer great qualities as choices for engagement rings. It's possible that next year might even see the oval shape becoming more popular. Ovals have the advantage of making fingers look longer and slimmer, a feature many find appealing. Our own Paris style with an oval centre stone has been exceptionally popular.

Oval diamonds can seem larger than round diamonds of the same carat when viewed from the top, which is a plus for those looking to maximise the appearance of size. They fit well with various ring styles, from simple solitaires to intricate halos, and work with both traditional and modern designs.

Then there are the timeless round diamonds, celebrated for their unmatched brilliance. Whether it’s the centrepiece of a simple ring or surrounded by other stones, a round diamond is always a solid choice.

Round diamonds are also versatile in cut options, with the popular round brilliant cut, consisting of 57 or 58 facets, known for maximising sparkle. They also tend to retain their value well over time which surely contributes to their status and continued popularity.

In a world where less is often more, dainty rings continue to reign. The minimalist design of these rings, with their straightforward and sleek lines, appeals to those who prefer a subtle, timeless style. They're versatile, blending seamlessly with any style, whether standing alone or paired in a trendy stack.

The lightweight feel of dainty rings makes them comfortable for everyday wear, not getting in the way of daily tasks, which is ideal for those who are active with their hands. Their small and delicate design is especially suited for those with petite hands or for individuals who like a more subtle look.

Dainty rings have been a hit for those who prefer something more understated. It's a look that's not going out of style anytime soon – a classic choice for anyone who’s not into big, showy pieces.

Bezel settings combine stone security with a clean look. There are various styles, each with unique traits. These settings, typically not overly modified, are evolving, reflecting consumers' bolder tastes.

The simplest, the full bezel, completely encircles the gemstone in metal, offering maximum protection and reducing damage risk. The half-bezel partially surrounds the gemstone, leaving two sides open, while an open bezel exposes the sides and often the back of the gemstone.

The trend now leans towards more inventive bezel styles. Among them is the scalloped bezel with a decorative, curved edge on the metal rim. Another is the multi-stone bezel, setting multiple gemstones side by side.

Other styles include the rimmed bezel, adding a strong look to the ring, and the floating bezel, giving an illusion of the gemstone suspended in the metal frame. There's also the tapered bezel, where the metal narrows as it reaches the top of the gemstone.

The marquise cut stands out with its elongated, pointed ends, differentiating it from traditional diamond shapes. The shape also gives the impression of a larger diamond, ideal for those aiming for a striking visual effect.

Historically linked to royalty, which is reflected in its name, a marquise diamond brings a touch of luxury and historical significance to an engagement ring.

Marquise diamonds fit well in various ring styles, including solitaire, three-stone, and halo settings. Their unique shape allows for a wide range of design creativity, offering the opportunity to really personalise the ring.

As trends evolve, marquise cut diamonds are becoming increasingly popular for their unique blend of historical significance and modern appeal, suitable for those who wish to make a statement with their ring choice.