Anklets: The trend and the styling rules

A subtle accessory with a big impact – this is how to wear anklets elegantly.

The renaissance of the anklet

The anklet, also known as an anklet, is far more than just a fleeting summer trend. It's a subtle yet powerful statement piece that elegantly draws attention to the foot and ankle. After being considered a relic of the 90s for a long time, the anklet has made a triumphant comeback on the runways and in streetwear in recent seasons. However, to master this trend in style, a few rules should be observed.

The anklet's origins stretch back thousands of years, where it served as both an adornment and a status symbol in cultures such as Egypt and India. In modern Western fashion, it experienced its heyday in the 1990s and early 2000s, often in the form of shiny, thick link chains or colorful beads.

The current trend, however, is significantly more elegant and minimalist. Today, delicate gold and silver chains dominate, worn either individually or in artful layered combinations. The modern anklet is more sophisticated, higher quality, and fits seamlessly into the trend of dainty jewelry.

The Golden Styling Rules for Anklets

To ensure that an anklet looks stylish and elegant, it is essential to observe some basic styling rules.

1. The right fit is crucial.

An anklet should never cut into the skin or feel tight. It should fit loosely, but it also shouldn't slip down the foot.

The ideal case:

The anklet should hang slightly below the ankle bone. Make sure it's loose enough to move with your foot, but not so loose that it gets caught in your shoe or bothers you when walking. Most anklets have adjustable closures; use them!

2. The interplay with shoes

Anklets aren't for every shoe. The rule is: Show some skin.

Shoe type	Styling tip
Sandals & Flip-Flops	The classic. Delicate or playful necklaces look best here. Perfect for the beach and leisure time.
High Heels & Pumps	Very elegant! A delicate, sparkling necklace visually lengthens the leg and adds glamour to the look.
Sneakers & Loafers	An unexpected yet modern look. The anklet should peek out discreetly between your shoe and trouser leg when sitting or walking. For this look, choose simpler designs.
Closed boots	Taboo! The anklet should not be worn under high, closed shoes, as it will chafe and damage the piece of jewelry.
Culottes & Cropped Trousers	Ideal, as they deliberately leave the ankle exposed and put the accessory in focus.

3. Layering – The art of stacking

As with necklaces and bracelets, layering (wearing several necklaces on top of each other) is currently the biggest trend for anklets.

Texture mix: Combine different chain types: a delicate snake chain with a coarser link chain and perhaps a small piece of pearl or shell.
Mixing metals: Combining gold and silver is perfectly acceptable these days and looks especially modern. Make sure that at least one of the necklaces is particularly understated so as not to overwhelm the look.
Number: Start with two or three necklaces. Wearing more will quickly make it look messy.

4. Care is paramount.

Anklets are particularly stressed due to their proximity to the ground and contact with sweat, sunscreen, sand and salt water.

Always remove: Take off the necklace before swimming in the sea or pool and before showering. Chlorine and salt water can corrode metals and discolor pearls.
Regular cleaning: Clean the chains regularly with a soft cloth and mild soapy water to remove residue and maintain their shine.

Styling rules for the office and formal occasions

In the office: If the anklet is visible, it should be very discreet (a thin gold or silver chain). Only combine it with elegant shoes (e.g., fine loafers or pumps). If in doubt, it's best to leave it off in a conservative environment.
Formal occasions: Restraint is key. A single, sparkling necklace with small diamonds or cubic zirconia can be very chic with a cocktail dress and high heels on a beautiful summer evening. Large, colorful, or flashy pieces should be avoided.

What about the position? (Right or left?)

Historically, anklets were associated with meanings in some cultures, ranging from status to relationship status. In modern Western fashion, the choice of foot no longer holds a fixed meaning. Simply wear your anklet on whichever foot feels most comfortable or best suits your shoes.

Do's and don'ts in summary

DO'S (Tips for a successful look)	DON'TS (What you should avoid)
DO combine it with 7/8 trousers or skirts that accentuate the ankle.	DON'T wear it over stockings, socks, or tights. The necklace belongs on bare skin!
DO invest in high-quality materials that are robust against environmental influences (e.g., gold-plated sterling silver).	DON'T wear too many colorful or thick bangles on the same foot; this quickly looks childish or cluttered.
Adjust the length so that the chain hangs loosely and does not slip.	DON'T wear it under closed sports shoes or boots where it can chafe.
Do in summer play with beach accessories such as shells or small charms.	DON'T wear it if you work in sand or dirt all day (keyword: hygiene and care).

The anklet is the perfect detail to complete a look and add a touch of lightness and femininity. It proves that it's often the little things that make the biggest impression.