How to Stack Rings: The Ultimate Guide

Ring Stacking and it's Origin

 

Ring stacking is a popular jewellery trend and is exactly what it’s name suggests. Simply put ring stacking is wearing multiple rings on a single finger to create a chic and personalised look. This trend gained momentum in the early 2010s and has since evolved, with various fashion influencers and jewellery brands promoting the art of mixing and matching rings of different styles, metals, and gemstones.

 

 

Exploring Ring Stack Styling Elements

 

1. Midi Rings

These are small, slim rings designed to be worn on the upper part of your fingers, typically between the first and second knuckles. Midi rings are perfect for adding an extra layer to your ring stack and filling the often-neglected space on your fingers. They come in various designs, from simple bands to more intricate styles, offering versatility in creating different looks.

2. Statement Rings

Statement rings are the bold and eye-catching stars of your ring stack. These rings usually feature large, vibrant gemstones or intricate designs. The current ‘cool girl’ trend is to wear multiple statement rings and less minimal rings for an effortless yet curated look. 

3. Eternity Rings

Eternity rings are often encrusted with a continuous line of identical gemstones, and symbolise everlasting love. These rings are elegant additions to a ring stack and are commonly used as wedding bands or anniversary rings. Placed strategically within your stack, eternity rings can signify a significant relationship or serve as a symbol of personal commitment.

 

4. Stacking Rings

As the name suggests, stacking rings are designed specifically for creating layered looks. They tend to be slim and minimalistic in design, making them ideal for stacking in multiple combinations. Stacking rings come in various metals, widths, and textures, allowing for endless possibilities in mix-and-match styling.

 

5. Dainty Rings

Dainty rings are delicate and subtle pieces that add a touch of elegance to your ring stack. These rings are often characterised by fine bands and minimal embellishments, making them perfect for achieving a more understated and graceful appearance. Dainty rings can serve as buffers between statements or larger rings, creating a balanced and well-composed stack.

 

 

How to Stack Rings?

 

1. Choose a Material

Begin by selecting a base material for your ring stack. Common options include gold, platinum, white gold, rose gold, or a combination of metals. Choosing a consistent material will give your stack a cohesive look, although mixing metals can create a trendy contrast. 

 

2. Start Out With a Minimal Ring

As a starting point, wear a simple and minimalistic ring that serves as a foundation. A slim band or a plain stacking ring can create a clean canvas for your stack.

3. Choose a Hero Piece that You Want to Focus

Select a "hero" or statement ring that you want to draw attention to. This could be a ring with a bold gemstone or intricate design. It will serve as the centrepiece of your stack, and you can build around it.

4. Play with Different Shapes and Size

Mix and match rings of varying shapes, sizes, and textures. For example, combine round and square shapes, or use a combination of wide and narrow bands. The contrast between different elements adds visual interest to your stack.

5. Leave One Bare Finger

To prevent your stack from looking overcrowded, consider leaving one finger bare or with a minimal ring. This empty space provides balance and prevents your stack from appearing too overwhelming.

6. Play with Volume of Ring

 

Experiment with the volume of rings on each finger. For instance, you can stack several dainty rings on one finger and a single bold statement ring on another. This contrast in volume creates a dynamic and visually appealing composition.

 

 

Tips to Layer Rings

 

Decide What Style You Want to Aim For

Before you start layering rings, it's essential to have a clear vision of the style you want to achieve. Whether you prefer a bohemian, minimalist, or eclectic look, knowing your style will guide your ring selection and arrangement.

Mix & Match Your Metal Colour to Highlight Your Statement Piece

If you have a statement ring with a specific metal colour, you can use this as a focal point. Complement it with rings of the same metal colour for a cohesive look, or mix metals for a trendy contrast. A well-placed statement piece can tie the whole look together.

Coordinate with Your Outfit

Your ring stack should harmonise with your outfit. Consider the colour and style of your clothing when choosing your rings. For formal occasions, opt for elegant and classic stacks, while casual outfits may allow for more eclectic and creative combinations.

Minimise on Other Jewellery

 

To keep your ring stack the centre of attention, go easy on other jewellery like bracelets or statement necklaces. This prevents your overall look from feeling cluttered and allows your rings to stand out.

Compliment your Skin Tone

Pay attention to how different metals and gemstone colours complement your skin tone. For warm skin tones, gold and earthy gemstones like amber and citrine can be flattering. Cooler skin tones tend to look great with silver and gemstones like sapphires and aquamarines. 

 

 

Engagement Ring and Stacking

 

How to Correctly Stack Engagement and Wedding Rings?

Stacking engagement and wedding rings is a beautiful way to wear these meaningful pieces of jewellery together. Here are some tips on how to correctly stack them:

1. Start with the Engagement Ring: Your engagement ring is traditionally worn closer to your heart, so it should be the first ring on your finger. 

2. Add the Wedding Band: The wedding band typically goes next, closest to your hand. It symbolises the commitment of marriage and is often plainer in design compared to the engagement ring. Place it snugly against your engagement ring, ensuring they sit together comfortably without gaps.

3. Consider Ring Guards or Spacers: If your engagement ring and wedding band don't sit flush against each other, you can use ring guards or spacers. These small, flexible bands are designed to be worn underneath your rings to keep them in place and aligned.

4. Opt for a Matching Set: Choosing an engagement ring and wedding band designed to fit together as a matching set can simplify the stacking process. Many jewellers offer coordinated sets that are crafted to perfectly complement each other in terms of style and fit.

5. Leave Space for a Third Ring: If you plan to add an eternity ring, anniversary band, or other significant ring in the future, consider leaving a small gap between your engagement and wedding rings. This will ensure there's room for another ring when the time comes.

6. Keep It Comfortable: Stacking rings should feel comfortable and not too tight. Your fingers can swell due to temperature changes or during certain activities, so it's important that your rings don't become uncomfortably tight. Ensure you can easily slide the rings on and off your finger.

7. Regular Maintenance: Over time, rings may need resizing or maintenance. Make sure to visit a jeweller for periodic checks and adjustments to maintain the integrity of your ring stack.

Ultimately, there's no one-size-fits-all approach to stacking engagement and wedding rings. It's a matter of personal preference and style. Experiment with different combinations and wear them in a way that feels meaningful and beautiful to you. 

 

Ring Stack FAQs:

 

How many fingers do I stack?

 

Usually, people stack rings on one or two fingers, such as the ring finger and middle finger.

 

Does stacking damage the ring?

 

Stacking rings properly should not damage them. However, if the rings are constantly rubbing against each other or if they are too tight, they might show signs of wear over time.

 

Which goes first: engagement or wedding ring?

 

The engagement ring typically goes on first, closer to the fingertip, followed by the wedding band, which is placed closer to the hand.