ON THE PROWL FOR THE PERFECT RING

Written by Cate Cadbury, Style Editor for Ice.com

It cannot be denied that many of us, as women, find immeasurable joy in catering to the latest trends the Fashion Gods bless us with from one season the next. But let it be known that we also have an avid appreciation for all things unique. From the shade of lipstick that defines our mood, to the signature scent we become known for, to certain staple accessories with which we develop long-lasting relationships over the years: we make a point of distinguishing ourselves from others by creating a personal style that highlights our singularity. Something our significant others should keep in mind when searching for an engagement ring…

Indeed, if we each make sure the world recognizes us as one of a kind, in the eyes of our one true love we should be perceived as nothing short of extraordinary. So given that the engagement season is in full swing, and that a profusion of eager women and devoted men are on the prowl for the perfect ring, here are a few tips on how to tailor these sparkling symbols of love to the women they are destined for.

THE CLASSIC LADY

In a few words: Graceful, poised and truly refined, the classic lady bears a timeless appeal that is reminiscent of Audrey Hepburn, Jackie O and Lady Di. She unfailingly blends together style, practicality and proper etiquette, and just as Coco Chanel so aptly stated back in 1923, she believes that simplicity is the keynote of all true elegance.

The classic wardrobe: Her closet is filled with those reliable fashion essentials that transcend time and trends: a little black dress and assorted stilettos, a white cashmere sweater, a flattering pencil skirt, a double-breasted raincoat, a silk scarf and a stunning 18-inch white akoya pearl necklace.


The engagement ring: A 1-carat round-cut solitaire diamond mounted in a four-prong setting, crafted in lustrous 14K white gold with a polished finish. Tasteful and neatly designed, this piece is the perfect choice for the classic woman who favors a traditional look over anything too intricate.

THE COSMO-CHIC CAREER WOMAN

In a few words: Ambitious, confident and effortlessly chic, the big-city businesswoman has a fierce quality about her that can be compared to the likes of famous female tycoons Oprah Winfrey and Madonna. Her immaculate sense of style comes to her as naturally as her success – the type of woman who takes firm but flawless steps towards a future she has all planned out.

The cosmo-chic closet: Her wardrobe is always distinguished, albeit dichotomous. By day, she dresses up in sober but sophisticated 9-to-5 attire – like a perfectly tailored pinstripe pantsuit, a crisp white blouse and a pair of classic princess-cut diamond studs. By night, she brings out her cosmopolitan eveningwear – like a swanky cocktail dress, hot high-heeled pumps and an eye-catching blue topaz and black diamond ring. 

The engagement ring: A 1-carat round-cut diamond centerpiece, flanked by two sparkling side stones and mounted atop a lustrous 14K white gold band studded with delicate accent diamonds. This design will highlight her style and success, without being ostentatious – the perfect piece for the classy career woman.

THE HOLLYWOOD GLAM GIRL

In a few words: Bold, alluring and perfectly polished, the Hollywood glam girl revels in the limelight. She can relate to renowned fashion icons and style mavens alike in that she is fearless in her choices, without ever crossing over into the world of fashion faux pas. Think of a cross between Marilyn Monroe for her glamorous demeanor, Paris Hilton for her love of luxury and Halle Berry for her star quality.

The glamorous get-up: A subscriber of Vogue and a die-hard fan of red-carpet events, this high-profile diva is a true fashionista who takes pride in donning designer labels and infusing her style with glitz and glamour. And if this trendsetter can’t afford the real deal, she’ll search high and low for the next best thing. Her signature accessory? A show-stopping green amethyst and diamond cocktail ring.

The engagement ring: A magnificent 1-carat round-cut diamond centerpiece that glows among a surrounding stream of pave-set accent diamonds, all of which are mounted in sleek 14K white gold. You might even attempt to include other gemstones along the band, like rubies or deep blue sapphires. This one can handle the real firepower of a spectacular design that will have her sparkling from all angles.

THE DOWN-TO-EARTH DARLING

In a few words: Athletic, pragmatic and hassle-free, this natural beauty finds more pleasure in books than in her looks. She is a modern woman with an active lifestyle who believes that style should be simple and easy. Picture an ER surgeon or a professional female athlete. Or an adventure-seeking, mountain-climbing, Lara Croft-type traveler.

The down-to-earth dress: For the most part – and not surprisingly – she is a T-shirt and jeans kind of girl. But when she does kick it up a notch and makes the effort of dressing up, her fashion favorites are rare treasures, like a vintage clutch purse she stumbled upon at a flea market, a bright silk pashmina she picked up in Chinatown and a stunning black cultured pearl necklace she inherited from a great aunt.

The engagement ring: A 1-carat diamond eternity ring that showcases a neat row of dazzling round-cut stones that are channel-set in lustrous 14K white gold. This design is sleek, secure and simple, and it bears an understated elegance that is well suited to the “no frills” type of woman.

THE ROMANTIC DREAMER

In a few words: Sweet-natured, ladylike and buoyant, the romantic dreamer has not-so-secret fantasies of a fairytale wedding filled with gossamer, chiffon and sparkling confetti. A true believer in soul mates, true love and magical moments, she would gladly play the starring role in either My Fair Lady, Pretty in Pink or Amélie.

The romantic allure: Flashback to Gwyneth Paltrow wearing a lovely pink Ralph Lauren gown at the 71st Academy Awards in 1999.  Indeed, her most elegant wardrobe is comprised of ultra-feminine fabrics like velvets, silks and satins. And when adorning her fancy frocks with fine jewelry, she stays true to her romantic nature with pretty gemstones, filigree details and heart-shaped designs. Her favorite piece: a classic diamond and white gold heart pendant.

The engagement ring: A ½ carat round-cut diamond put on gorgeous display inside a 6-prong setting, and mounted atop a 14K gold band that features streams of sparkling accent diamonds on each of its facets. An engagement ring that is delicate and intricate…and worthy of a princess.