For the perpetually stylish man, the prospect of the standard plain gold ring as a wedding band can seem rather stifling. Luckily, the selection of men’s wedding bands and rings currently on the market is so large and varied that it is entirely possible to find a ring that is classic enough to serve as a wedding band, yet offers a distinct fashionable flair that reflects today’s modern trends. Here are four types of men’s wedding bands and rings that are versatile enough to double as fashion statements.

Black men’s rings: One of the hottest trends in men’s wedding bands and rings right now, black bands are a sleek alternative to standard metallic colors like gold and silver. Black rings for men can come in a variety of materials, though the most commonly seen are ceramic, titanium, tungsten, stainless steel and silver. For those who want black in their wedding band but don’t want to commit to a fully black ring, blackened or oxidized accents are popular options. Black diamonds can similarly add an ebony accent, albeit a more luxury one. Because black is such a neutral color, despite their alternative hue black men’s rings can pair with virtually any ensemble. There’s no doubt that when it comes to men’s rings, black is the new black.

Mixed metal bands: For those who simply can’t decide between band colors, mixed metal wedding rings and bands are the perfect solution. These particular men’s rings also offer a surprising dash of versatility, as matching to other everyday accessories like watches is no longer a concern. The most commonly seen color combination, of course, is a silvery white metal paired with yellow gold, though rose gold accents can also be seen with one or both colors as well. Another mixed metal combination worth considering pairs an alternative material like tungsten or titanium with yellow gold, for an intriguing high/low combination. The gunmetal grey of these contemporary materials is particularly striking when offset by the richness of yellow gold. This can also allow those with lower budgets to have a touch of luxury in their wedding rings.

Men’s diamond rings: No longer are diamond bands only for brides – men’s diamond rings have grown immensely in popularity in the last 15 years. In addition to the standard white diamonds, black diamonds are considered to be a particularly masculine addition to men’s wedding bands and rings. The styles of men’s diamond rings can vary from contemporary to traditional: from a single off-center single diamond accent to the classic eternity band. A particularly fashion forward take on the diamond eternity ring is the reverse eternity band, where a metallic center is framed by diamond encrusted edges.

Patterned and inlaid bands. A little extra texture or design is a fast way to enliven men’s wedding bands and rings. Some popular added elements include mokume gane, carbon fiber inlay, enamel overlay and cable chain accents. Mokume gane is an ancient Japanese method of layering metals for a subtle yet eye-catching swirling pattern, and was originally used in the production of samurai swords. Both carbon fiber inlays and enamel overlays add a touch of color to men’s rings that can be as neutral as black or as bold as bright blue or orange. Cable chain accents add an industrial and ultra-modern look to men’s wedding bands and rings, and are often used in stainless steel rings.

In some ways, these contemporary bands can be considered the “new traditional.” Not only do these multi-faceted rings offer an undeniably stylish look, but they are classic enough to stand the test of time as men’s wedding bands.

Author Name/Pen Name:  Tanya Zilinskas Naouri

Author Bio: men’s diamond rings have grown immensely in popularity in the last 15 years. The styles of men’s diamond rings can vary from contemporary to traditional.