Are you wondering how and when to wear a cocktail ring? Cocktail rings are a feminist symbol from the era of illicit 1920s speakeasy parties. Our complete guide explains their juicy history and fun facts – and most importantly, how to wear these big, bold rings so they complement your personal style.
Included in this article:
What is a cocktail ring?
Why cocktail rings are a symbol of feminism
How to choose a gem for your cocktail ring
What ring suits your hand shape?
Styling cocktail rings with your outfit
Tips and inspiration for rings
What is a cocktail ring?
You have seen them – bold, eye-catching and unique!
Statement rings, also known as cocktail rings, are larger than normal fashion rings. They usually showcase an oversized gem, diamond or metal motif.
Statement rings help you express your style and personality.
A 1920’s symbol of feminism
The cocktail ring fashion started in the USA in the 1920s. It was a booming decade that gave birth to feminism and the Prohibition Law that made alcohol illegal.
Thanks to these political trends, the rebellious, independent flapper girls of the time who wanted to party despite the Prohibition law, would turn up at illicit parties wearing showy dresses and jewellery.
At the bar, they’d raise their right hand to flash the bartender a large ring – a secret signal for ordering forbidden alcoholic drinks.
Hence the name, cocktail ring, and why statement rings are traditionally worn on the right hand.
Today, there are no rules. Therefore, nowadays you can wear your cocktail rings on any hand or any finger, one or many at a time.
There’s a cocktail ring for every occasion
For the office, choose something minimalistic so it’s not “too much”
Formal events are perfect for your biggest, most glamorous rings
Casual occasions with friends are great for quirky, playful rings
Wearing only one ring
If you want your statement ring to attract attention, then let it play a starring role.
Do this by keeping the rest of your jewellery understated.
Can I wear multiple rings?
Yes! You shouldn’t be afraid to wear more than one statement ring. A great way to do this is to match colours while playing with different textures so the rings complement each other.
Best gemstones for cocktail rings
The most popular gems used in statement rings are:
Are you wondering how and when to wear a cocktail ring? Cocktail rings are a feminist symbol from the era of illicit 1920s speakeasy parties. Our complete guide explains their juicy history and fun facts – and most importantly, how to wear these big, bold rings so they complement your personal style.
Included in this article:
What is a cocktail ring?
You have seen them – bold, eye-catching and unique!
Statement rings, also known as cocktail rings, are larger than normal fashion rings. They usually showcase an oversized gem, diamond or metal motif.
Statement rings help you express your style and personality.
A 1920’s symbol of feminism
The cocktail ring fashion started in the USA in the 1920s. It was a booming decade that gave birth to feminism and the Prohibition Law that made alcohol illegal.
Thanks to these political trends, the rebellious, independent flapper girls of the time who wanted to party despite the Prohibition law, would turn up at illicit parties wearing showy dresses and jewellery.
At the bar, they’d raise their right hand to flash the bartender a large ring – a secret signal for ordering forbidden alcoholic drinks.
Hence the name, cocktail ring, and why statement rings are traditionally worn on the right hand.
TV program ‘The Roaring 20s’ | Image Wikipedia © Warner Brothers Television 1960-62
How to wear statement rings today
Today, there are no rules. Therefore, nowadays you can wear your cocktail rings on any hand or any finger, one or many at a time.
There’s a cocktail ring for every occasion
Wearing only one ring
If you want your statement ring to attract attention, then let it play a starring role.
Do this by keeping the rest of your jewellery understated.
Can I wear multiple rings?
Yes! You shouldn’t be afraid to wear more than one statement ring. A great way to do this is to match colours while playing with different textures so the rings complement each other.
Best gemstones for cocktail rings
The most popular gems used in statement rings are: