What’s More Fun Than an Anklet?

Summer is in full swing which means it’s time to hike up your hems and show off those ankles. And, because this isn’t Victorian England, A) that’s allowed, and B) you can adorn said ankle with some very cute jewels. Anklets for women are officially a jewellery collection staple.

If the last time you remember wearing an ankle bracelet was in the fifth grade and it was made out of multicoloured plastic (you know the one), then you’ve been missing out. Anklets have had a major upgrade in recent years, with brands like Paco Rabanne, Fendi and Miu Miu putting their own spin on the anklets for women trend. They’ve also been spotted on celebrity royalty like Beyoncé and Rihanna, so you know they’re an accessorizing must.

For many people, the draw can be nostalgic; tapping in to the feeling of freedom and youth many experienced when they first dipped their toes into the world of anklets as a kid. Like the Y2K trend, along with flared jeans, checkered Vans, and jelly sandals, anklets can remind us of a time when we had less stress and wore what we wanted purely because we wanted to.

For others, the allure of anklets might fall within a cultural scope. While the origins, meaning and symbolism behind anklets has evolved as the jewellery has crossed cultures, similar designs have reportedly been found in Persia (now known as Iran) dating back to the end of the second millennium BC. There are also ties to India and Africa. So let’s just say, anklets been around for awhile.

Culture aside, the decision to don an anklet can be purely aesthetic. Anklets for women are the perfect subtle accessory, adding anything from a glimmer of shine to a statement-making bling to exposed ankles. But how do you embrace the trend without looking like you’re at recess? Below, we’ve rounded up some chic anklet options (and a few editor-approved styling tricks).

Jenny Bird Dane anklet

It’s a classic for a reason. For those whose style leans more quiet luxury than maximalist, this tubular anklet in gold ion-plated steel is a simple yet effective addition to your summer rotation.

This pick is perfect to throw on with a pair of white linen pants and a chunky sandal. Want to add some more interest? Stack the Dane with a finer pearl or chainlink anklet for a cool layered moment.

Mejuri micro pearl ankle

Is there anything more classy than pearl accessories? The answer is no, and the elegance of pearls applies all the way down to your feet. Throw this dressy anklet on as the final-touch to your summer wedding welcome reception or rehearsal dinner looks. Or, if you like to romanticize the everyday, use it as a go-to accoutrement to elevate a casual outfit.

Free People Ruelle anklet

If you’re looking for something that screams boho maximalism, then a charm-encrusted anklet or something with coloured gemstones is the best option. Reminiscent of the plastic woven confections made by you and your bestie at summer camp, this beaded anklet would shine when paired with well-worn denim shorts or your fave bathing suit — perfect for jumping off the dock in style this summer.

Amina Muaddi tennis anklet

You’ve heard about tennis bracelets and tennis necklaces, and now we have tennis anklets for women. (Call it the Challengers effect.) The best part? A diamond anklet is glam and very versatile — if you’re not feeling like accessorizing your anklets, you could stack it on your wrist as an additional bracelet.

Pandora Barbed Wire Heart bracelet set

While not labelled as an anklet per se, this bracelet from Pandora can work double duty as a bracelet *and* chunky anklet. The result is an instant ode to early 2000s dressing. Paris Hilton would be proud.

Miu Miu cord and nylon bracelet

While this Miu Miu anklet is a bit of a departure from what we may be used to in the ankle accessories department, that doesn’t make it any less wearable. This nylon version is for the outdoorsy type who wants to bring a hint of durable fashion to their summer adventures. It’s giving MEC in the chicest way.

Stone and Strand anklet

Are you a wedding guest at approx. 8,000 nuptials this summer? Because, same. Add some spice to your wedding guest outfit with a simple but gorgeous charm anklet. The dainty finish is perfect for adding some polish to a satin slip dress and chrome-coloured heels.

Mademoiselles Jules Scorpios anklet

Not ready to commit to a full strand of pearls around your ankle? Try a bold charm, like this baroque pearl from Canadian jewellery brand, Mademoiselles Jules.

With files from Jennifer Berry