When you notice a woman wearing a ring on a specific finger, the natural assumption for many is that it’s a sign of marriage. For centuries, engagement and wedding rings have been the go-to symbols for declaring one’s commitment to a partner. But there’s a new trend on the rise that’s turning this tradition on its head. Nowadays, more women are choosing to wear rings on their pinky fingers—and the meaning behind it has nothing to do with signaling that they’re taken.

What Does a Pinky Ring Represent?

Traditionally, rings have been used to express feelings and communicate messages without words. The classic example is the engagement ring, which serves as a public announcement that a woman has found her lifelong partner. However, not all rings worn on fingers carry such obvious meanings. Many women wear rings simply as stylish accessories, chosen purely because they complement their look or fit the vibe they’re going for that day.

But if you spot a woman sporting a ring on her pinky finger, it might have a deeper significance than just a fashion statement. This growing trend is linked to a movement championed by jewelry brand Fred + Far, which encourages self-empowerment and self-love regardless of one’s relationship status.

The Rise of the Pinky Ring Movement

The concept of wearing a ring on the pinky finger to signify self-commitment was popularized by Melody Godfred, co-founder of Fred + Far. Godfred came up with the idea as a way to remind herself of the importance of self-care and self-worth. She wanted to reclaim the symbolism of a ring—not as a sign of commitment to another person, but as a pledge to prioritize her own well-being.

In an interview with Mental Scoops, Godfred explained: “I chose the pinky finger because it’s a finger I’d never worn a ring on before. It’s often overlooked, just like women can be in their own lives. It felt empowering to take a traditional symbol of commitment (like the bold engagement ring) and use it to say, ‘This time, I’m choosing myself.’”

Godfred emphasized that wearing a pinky ring doesn’t conflict with other symbols of love, such as an engagement ring. In fact, she continues to wear her engagement ring proudly alongside her pinky ring, as a reminder that loving yourself enables you to love others better. The pinky ring designed by Fred + Far features an inverted triangular stone, which represents the strength of the “divine feminine.”

A Look Back at the History of Pinky Rings

While the self-love movement has gained traction in recent years, the idea of women wearing pinky rings is not entirely new. Historically, during the Victorian era, women would often wear rings on their left pinky fingers as a way to signal that they were single but not interested in marriage. It was a subtle yet clear message that they were content with their independence.

Today, the pinky ring has evolved into a powerful statement of self-appreciation. Women are embracing it as a symbol of self-respect and personal empowerment. It’s no longer just about rejecting societal expectations or declaring independence—it’s about celebrating oneself.

The Next Time You See a Pinky Ring…

So, the next time you see a woman confidently wearing a ring on her pinky finger, you might have a better understanding of its meaning. It’s more than just a piece of jewelry; it’s a declaration of self-love, a reminder to prioritize oneself, and a celebration of personal strength.

Have you heard about the pinky ring trend before? What do you think about this movement towards self-empowerment? Let us know your thoughts!