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This post was originally published in February 2015.
First comes love, then comes marriage. That's the standard sequence of events in everyone's favorite playground song — likely the result of some steamy k-i-s-s-i-n-g in a certain tree. For grown-ups taking their romantic relationship to the next level, it's first comes engagement ring, then comes wedding band. Then, hopefully, happily ever after.
Fantasizing about the "perfect" engagement ring is pretty universal — be it an Etsy find, a vintage piece, or a contemporary design. In contrast, wedding bands can often feel like something of an afterthought. But, the way we see it, any piece of jewelry you're committing to wear on your big day (and every day) should befit your personal style. You want to be sure you'll be looking down at a ring you actually love wearing. To provide you with some inspiration, we gathered 25 gorgeous bands to shop in this slideshow — click ahead and prepare to fall in love.
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Speckling around the black diamond gives an otherwise simple, 14-karat gold band loads of character.
Claire Kinder Studio, $330.00, available at Claire Kinder StudioClik here to view.
"Je t'aime" is engraved on one side of this ring — a reminder of the sentiment that put it on your finger.
Nora Kogan, $395.00, available at Nora KoganClik here to view.
White and yellow gold are a perfect match — just like you and your S.O.
Tara 4779, $270.00, available at Tara 4779Clik here to view.
Here you thought fishtail braids were only for hair.
Bario Neal, $385.00, available at Bario NealClik here to view.
Cartier's sleek, geometric design offers just the right amount of sparkle.
Cartier, $1990.00, available at CartierClik here to view.
This organically shaped band is crafted from reclaimed gold and conflict-free diamonds.
Blanca Monrós Gómez, $885.00, available at Blanca Monrós GómezClik here to view.
An arrow motif runs symmetrically around the band's circumference.
Digby & Iona, $720.00, available at Digby & IonaClik here to view.
One for each partner, or two for a unique, ceremonial stack.
WWAKE, $1809.00, available at WWAKEClik here to view.
The circle of love (and life).
Jennie Kwon, $385.00, available at Jennie KwonClik here to view.
The band is slightly curved to fit as a stacking ring for solitaire engagement rings.
Midwinter Co., $225.00, available at Midwinter Co.Clik here to view.
Spending eternity with your beloved is all rainbows as far as fine-jewelry designer Kathryn Bentley is concerned.
Kathryn Bentley, $1800.00, available at Dream CollectiveClik here to view.
Featuring 17 glistening diamonds, the ring's channel setting has a modern, minimal feel.
Catherine Iskiw, $2140.00, available at The Clay PotClik here to view.
Forgo gemstones for a fancy, lace-like design.
Kaoru, $345.00, available at Love AdornedClik here to view.
An ideal stacking ring, Okimodo's band is also budget-friendly.
Okomido, $165.00, available at OkomidoClik here to view.
Elsa Peretti's sculptural design is made more unique with accent yellow diamonds.
Elsa Peretti, $2250.00, available at Tiffany & CoClik here to view.
The raw, eroded finish of this band reveals white sapphires of different sizes that seem haphazardly cast within.
Polly Wales, $4130.00, available at Polly WalesClik here to view.
Let's just say that these coordinating bands are all that a commitment ring implies and more.
Anna Sheffield, $2650.00, available at Anna SheffieldClik here to view.
This band is elegant and earthy; its sprinkling of diamonds offer an extra-special touch.
Ruth Tomlinson, $2320.00, available at TwistClik here to view.
This delicate band's floating elements — a white gold sphere and diamond — are truly unique.
Sehti Na, $495.00, available at Sehti NaClik here to view.
Red is the color of love, is it not?
Satomi Kawakita, $2750.00, available at Satomi KawakitaClik here to view.
The buckle motif seen here was especially popularity in the 1800s, "characterizing enduring love, fidelity, strength, and protection," according to Workhorse.
Workhorse, $246.00, available at WorkhorseClik here to view.
It takes two to tango.
Tilda Biehn, $3150.00, available at Tilda BiehnClik here to view.
A subtler way to set one's love in stone.
Vale Jewelry, $1350.00, available at Vale JewelryClik here to view.
The pop-out leaf motif is subtle, but arresting — proof that "simple" doesn't have to mean "plain."
BAM-B Jewellery, $1065.00, available at BAM-B JewelleryClik here to view.
Make sure you have Champagne at the ready to toast this lovely, Champagne-diamond band.
Selin Kent, $1320.00, available at Selin KentLike what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?
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