Fairycore, Fantasy, and Vintage: 3 Unique Engagement Ring Trends to Know for 2026 Proposals

If you’re thinking of proposing, the chances are that you’re already eyeing up a 2026 proposal. Research shows that most people take more than three months to plan how they’re going to pop the question, from finding a unique engagement ring to planning the special moment itself. The start of a new year is also a popular time for proposals, with almost 40% of engagements happening in the two and a half months between Thanksgiving and Valentine’s Day. 

Now is the perfect time to start thinking about your New Year’s or Valentine’s Day proposal. 2026 engagement ring trends are all about embracing storytelling through design by choosing rings that feel personal and deeply symbolic to who you are. In this post, we’re sharing three of our favourite trends for unique engagement rings to help you start your 2026 proposal planning.

Trend One: Fairycore Engagement Rings

We’re all leaning into whimsy in 2026. It’s no surprise that fairycore engagement rings are having a major moment, inspired by the resurgence of fantasy romance novels and our favorite childhood fairytales. This engagement ring trend often takes inspiration from nature, with floral motifs, vine-like bands, and colored stones. 

Our ethical nature-inspired engagement rings capture this trend with styles that draw their inspiration from the stars, the ocean, and everywhere in between. The ‘Iris Round Pink Lab Diamond Engagement Ring’ is the perfect choice for the couple having their real-life Cinderella moment.

Trend Two: Fantasy-Inspired Engagement Rings

Have you always been a storyteller? Perhaps you’re someone who likes to get caught up in the wonder and magic of history and mythology. The fantasy-inspired engagement ring trend will still be going strong in 2026, incorporating unique stone colors, like salt and pepper diamonds, celestial halos, and star motifs.  

If you’re a fan of all things fantasy-inspired, consider choosing a sapphire engagement ring. This stone is synonymous with nobility, royalty, and loyalty, making it the perfect choice for any couple tying the knot. Our ‘Astrid Emerald Cut Blue Sapphire Engagement Ring’ is designed for the dreamers and the fantasy lovers at heart.

Trend Three: Vintage-Inspired Engagement Rings

While ‘quiet luxury’ may be fading into the background, the same can’t be true with vintage-inspired engagement rings. This trend has seen a resurgence in recent years with couples and designers drawing inspiration from Art Deco, Victorian, and Edwardian rings.

They’re the ultimate modern heirloom, giving you the option to reimagine a traditional engagement ring style using sustainable materials and techniques, including lab-grown diamonds and fairminded gold. Our ‘Capri Emerald Cut Teal Sapphire Engagement Ring’ reimagines the classic art deco silhouette for the modern couple.

Shop Unique Engagement Rings at Valley Rose for a Magical 2026 Proposal

2026 engagement ring trends are all about embracing individuality and using storytelling to showcase your romance. At Valley Rose, our ethical engagement rings are inspired by the beauty of the world around us and grounded in strict sustainability practices, minimizing the environmental impact of your engagement ring.

Shop our newest engagement ring arrivals for 2026 or book a free 30-minute consultation to explore our fantasy, fairycore, and vintage-inspired rings.