Anklets: chain styles, sizing, metals, and how to wear one
Anklets explained: chain styles, how to measure your ankle, solid gold vs plated, waterproof options, which ankle to wear it on, and how to style one.
The short answer
Anklets are fine ankle chains; dainty cable and satellite chains suit daily wear. Measure above the ankle bone and add about 1 inch; most women wear 9 to 10 inches. Solid gold, gold-filled, stainless steel or titanium handle water and sand best.
- Wear one on either ankle with sandals, flats or loafers.
Anklets are fine chains worn around the ankle, a small piece of jewelry that adds polish to sandals, ballet flats and bare summer feet. A good anklet is dainty, sits just above the ankle bone without sliding over the foot, and is made from a metal that can handle water, sand and sun. Here is how to choose a chain, measure your ankle, pick a metal that lasts, and wear an anklet well.
Popular anklet styles
| Style | Look | Good for |
|---|---|---|
| Fine cable or box chain | Minimal and dainty | Everyday wear; layering |
| Satellite chain | Small beads spaced along the chain | A little sparkle without bulk |
| Paperclip chain | Elongated links | A modern, slightly bolder look |
| Charm anklet | A tiny heart, disc, star or initial | A personal touch |
| Beaded or pearl | Soft and summery | Beach days and holidays |
| Tennis anklet | A line of small stones | Evenings and special occasions |
Two thin anklets layered on one ankle look delicate; avoid more than two or three.
How to measure your ankle for an anklet
- Wrap a soft tape or a piece of string around your ankle just above the ankle bone, where the anklet will sit.
- Mark and measure the string against a ruler.
- Add about 1 inch for a comfortable drape; add a little more for a looser look.
- Most women wear 9 to 10 inches. An extender chain lets you adjust the fit.
An anklet that is too tight rubs and leaves a mark; too loose and it slips over the heel or catches on shoes.
Which metal is best for an anklet?
- Solid 14k gold: the best choice for daily wear, including showers and swimming; see jewelry you can shower in.
- Gold-filled: durable and more affordable, with a thick gold layer that lasts years with care.
- Sterling silver: beautiful, but tarnishes with water and sunscreen; clean it often.
- Stainless steel or titanium: very durable and waterproof, a good budget option, and usually safe for sensitive skin.
- Plated: fine for occasional wear, but sand, salt water and friction wear plating fast.
Our guide to gold vermeil vs gold-filled vs gold-plated explains the difference, and hypoallergenic metals covers what is safe for reactive skin.
Which ankle do you wear an anklet on?
There is no rule. Most people wear an anklet on whichever ankle shows more, or the one that feels comfortable with their shoes. Some wear one on each ankle. Old associations about which ankle "means" what are mostly myths and differ from place to place, so wear it wherever you like.
How to style an anklet
- With sandals and slides in summer, the classic pairing.
- With ballet flats or mary janes and cropped trousers; see ballet flats.
- With loafers and ankle-length trousers, for a subtle flash of gold; see loafers for women.
- Barefoot on the beach with a waterproof chain.
- Matched to your other jewelry: echo the metal of your rings or a charm bracelet.
Can you wear an anklet with socks or tights?
A fine anklet worn over sheer tights can look playful in fall, but chains snag fabric easily, so choose a smooth cable or box chain without charms. Under socks, anklets tend to rub and tangle; save them for bare ankles.
Are permanent anklets a good idea?
Permanent jewelry studios can weld a chain around your ankle with no clasp. It looks seamless, but ankles swell in heat and on long flights, and some medical scans and procedures need jewelry removed. Our guide to permanent jewelry covers what to know before you commit.
How to care for an anklet
- Rinse after the beach or pool to remove salt, sand and chlorine.
- Apply sunscreen and lotion first, then put the anklet on once they dry.
- Clean it gently with mild soap and water; see how to clean gold jewelry.
- Store it flat or hanging so fine chains do not knot.
- Check the clasp regularly, since anklets get knocked more than other jewelry.
Read next: Ear Piercing Types: Placements, Pain and Healing · Huggie Earrings: Sizes, Metals and How to Style Them · 14k vs 18k Gold — Which Is Right for Daily Wear
Questions people ask about this
What size anklet should I get?
Measure just above the ankle bone and add about 1 inch. Most women wear 9 to 10 inches, and an extender chain helps adjust the fit.
Which ankle should you wear an anklet on?
Either. There is no rule; most people choose the ankle that shows more or feels comfortable with their shoes.
Can you shower with an anklet on?
Solid gold, stainless steel and titanium anklets handle water well. Plated and sterling silver anklets tarnish or wear faster when wet.
What is the best metal for an anklet?
Solid 14k gold for daily wear, gold-filled for a durable mid-price option, and stainless steel or titanium for a waterproof budget choice.
Are anklets in style?
Yes. Dainty gold chains, charm anklets and layered fine chains are popular, especially with sandals, ballet flats and loafers.
Can you wear an anklet with shoes?
Yes, with sandals, flats and loafers. Choose a fine, smooth chain so it does not catch or rub.
