Brazilian Wedding Rings & Bridal Attire

This gorgeous blue-green sapphire crown engagement ring in yellow gold would make a stunning Brazilian promise or engagement ring. Photo ©2018 EraGem Jewelry.   Brazilian wedding rings and attire are truly unique. In Brazil, a couple might purchase promise rings, then engagement rings, then wedding rings. And in their 25th year, they might even purchase anniversary rings. As for attire, the bridal party will likely wear unmatched dresses in bright colors. In fact, the brighter, the better.

Brazilian Promise & Engagement Rings

A Brazilian wedding begins long before the day of the ceremony. In fact, it may begin with a promise. Many Brazilian couples purchase promise (commitment) rings, which they wear on their right ring fingers. These rings symbolize that the couple is serious about their relationship, though it does not mean they plan to marry. As the relationship unfolds, the man might purchase an engagement ring for his sweetheart. As he proposes, he replaces the promise ring with this ring, which she wears on her right ring finger. He may or may not purchase a matching engagement band to wear on his right hand, as well. Very few rules govern the type of ring he must choose for his fiance. It could be a diamond solitaire, or it could be a colored gemstone ring, or it could be a solid gold band.  

Brazilian Wedding & Anniversary Rings

For their wedding day, the bride and groom might purchase alianças, wedding rings. They might also use their engagement and/or promise bands for this purpose. During the ceremony, each one will take the ring off their partner's right ring finger and move it to the left ring finger, where it remains for the duration of their marriage.   Brazilians celebrate anniversaries just like we do here in the United States. However, they commemorate three significant anniversaries in very special ways - the 25th, 50th, and 60th anniversaries (Silver, Gold, and Diamond, respectively). It is customary for Brazilian couples to commemorate their Silver (25th) Anniversary with new wedding bands.  

Brazilian Wedding Attire

As I mentioned before, Brazilian wedding attire is colorful! The bride might wear white, but she is not limited to this traditional color. She can wear whatever color she chooses. Regardless of the color of her gown, she will likely write the names of her single girlfriends onto the inside hem of her dress. This tradition extends her good fortune to her friends, hopefully opening to them the doors of love. She might also wear golden shoes. A Brazilian groom might wear a traditional black tuxedo, though he could choose white, light blue, or any color of his choice. He could also wear a suit instead of a tux. He might also wear the Brazilian flag in his lapel. In contrast to American bridesmaids, Brazilian attendants do not typically wear matching dresses. In fact, Brazilian brides usually do not choose their attendants' outfits. Rather, each member of the bridal party chooses her own dress, the more colorful, the better. Groomsmen may wear matching tuxedos or suits, or they may wear complementary colors to the groom. They will most likely carry Brazilian flags as they walk down the aisle.