20 Ways To Wear Summer's Jewellery Must-Have, From Minimal To Utterly Bold
Delicate chains, colourful beads, diamonds, and more await
The best anklets for women were once a symbol of ancient cultures and synonymous with bohemian lifestyles. They’ve long been a fixture in many designer collections, but recently they’ve become a choice accessory for showcasing personal style, as well. With styles to suit every taste—from minimal, delicate gold chains to eye-catching designs featuring modern pearls, crystals, and even diamonds—anklets can elevate an everyday summer look with a touch of whimsy and elegance.
Don’t be afraid to pile on more than one. “I always think layering looks best, rather than just one [anklet], and this is a nice way to mix fashion and fine jewellery—for example, beaded with more purist styles,” Cassie Smart, head of womenswear at MatchesFashion, tells Bazaar. The buyer recommends unexpected styling choices for formal and casual occasions: a fine gold anklet paired with a pleated dress and minimal flip flops, or more vibrant versions effortlessly layered in a summer vacation look, injecting colour beads across both ankles.
Smart says precious-stone anklets from brands like Jia Jia or By Alona are always worth the investment. “I think you would easily bring these back out each summer,” she says. The same goes for fine jewelry versions. “A particular highlight [this season] is the single drop turquoise stone [by Mateo], which would look effortlessly stylish back to a simple tan thong sandal with a luxurious caftan.”
Whether you prefer a subtle shimmer or a statement piece, scroll to discover 20 of the best anklets for women.
Related article: Put Your Best Foot Forward With These Chic Anklets
Our Favourite Anklets for Women in 2023
BEST GOLD CHAIN ANKLET
Emme Parsons Delicate Chain Anklet
This gold chain anklet has a delicate yet substantial feel and glimmers so splendidly in the light, whether with everyday sandals or an elegant occasion heel.
Dimensions: 9.5" L
Materials: 14k gold-plated brass, non-galvanized
BEST BEADED ANKLET SET
Roxanne Assoulin Set of Two Gold-Tone Beaded Anklets
Roxanne Assoulin is the queen of beads, so this set of two anklets is a joyful must-have.
Dimensions: 9.8" circumference
Materials: Beads and gold-tone metal
BEST LAYERED ANKLET
Lana Stiletto Anklet
Get the layered look without the effort, courtesy of this shimmering 14k gold flat-link chain anklet.
Dimensions: 9" L
Materials: 14k gold
BEST TWO-TONE ANKLET
By Alona Avery Pearl & 18kt Gold-Plated Anklet
This precious pearl-and-stone anklet adds a unique dimension to any look, whether worn solo or layered.
Dimensions: 10.5" L x 1.2" W
Materials: Freshwater pearl, black faceted spinel stones, 18k gold-plated brass
BEST WHIMSICAL CHARM ANKLET
Yvonne Léon 18-Karat Gold Diamond Anklet
In our book, peak summer accessorizing is a luxuriously whimsical charm dangling at your ankle.
Dimensions: 0.6" L x 0.4" W x 0.6" H, pendant 0.4" W
Materials: 18k gold with 0.10 carats of gray diamonds
BEST SAPPHIRE ANKLET
Jia Jia Arizona Light Sapphire & 14kt Gold Anklet
Made up of several rare sapphire variations, this spectrum of gemstones is said to impart connection to the seven healing chakras.
Dimensions: 10" L x 0.1" W
Materials: Faceted raw fancy sapphire beads and 14k gold
BEST SHAKER ANKLET
Jacquie Aiche Shaker 14-Karat Gold Anklet
A gold shaker anklet is playfully elevated, transitioning from casual daytime looks to resortwear and occasion outfits with ease.
Dimensions: 0.4" W x 0.4" H
Materials: 14k gold
BEST PEARL ANKLET
White Space Pebble Pearl Anklet
The natural movement of Japanese keshi pearls feels right at home on an anklet, gracefully catching the eye with each step.
Dimensions: 8.25-9.75" L
Materials: 14k solid gold, natural Japanese keshi pearls
BEST GOOD-ENERGY ANKLET
Foundrae Karma 18-Karat Gold Lapis Lazuli Anklet
Good karma is yours when you’re wearing this lapis lazuli anklet, accented with a positive-energy-radiating charm.
Dimensions: 0.4" L x 0.4" W, 8.5" circumference
Materials: 18k gold, lapis lazuli
BEST EVERYDAY ANKLET
Stone and Strand Maritime Anklet
This delicate 10k gold chain makes for the perfect everyday anklet you never have to take off. Bonus: It plays well with others, like heavier links, pearls, and colourful beads.
Dimensions: 10" L
Materials: 10k solid yellow gold
BEST TENNIS ANKLET
Amina Muaddi Tennis Crystal-Embellished Anklet
Go full glamour in this multicoloured crystal tennis anklet by Amina Muaddi. It pairs perfectly with her vibrant spectrum of heels and sandals.
Dimensions: 10.5" L
Materials: Brass, crystals
BEST MAXIMALIST ANKLET
Nest Jewelry Coin Shell Charm Anklet
Really go for it as an anklet maximalist with this oversize coin-and-shell charm design.
Dimensions: 8.5" L with a 2" extender
Materials: 22k yellow gold-plated hardware, golden and mother-of-pearl charms
BEST DIAMOND ANKLET
Anita Ko 18-Karat Gold Diamond Anklet
The ultimate anklet spurge, it’s set on a slim gold chain and dripping with sparkling diamonds.
Dimensions: 9.3" circumference
Materials: 18k gold, 0.75 carats of heart-cut F-G VS2 diamonds
BEST MESH ANKLET
Jenny Bird Francis Anklet
This gilded mesh anklet is giving us Italiano vibes—perfect for a Sicilian getaway. Bellissima!
Dimensions: 10.75" L
Materials: Gold-plated brass
BEST TURQUOISE ANKLET
Mateo Turquoise & 14kt Gold Anklet
A top pick of Smart’s, this delicate anklet by Mateo offers just the right colour pop with summer whites.
Dimensions: 8.9" L x 0.2" W
Materials: Turquoise cabochon and 14k gold
MOST SUMMERY ANKLET
Panconesi White & Orange Vacanza Anklet
Enamel-dipped pearls feel decidedly summery and joyful with everything from vibrant colours and prints to versatile neutrals.
Dimensions: 10" L
Materials: Pearl, enamel, cord
BEST SNAKE CHAIN ANKLET
Missoma x Lucy Williams Square Snake Chain Anklet
The squared shape of this snake-chain anklet gives the iconic design a more modern feel.
Dimensions: 10.24" L with approximately 1" extender
Materials: 18k gold-plated vermeil on sterling silver
BEST CRYSTAL ANKLET
TBalance Crystals Prehnite Anklet
Irregularly shaped crystals have a beautifully organic feel for summer.
Dimensions: 8.3" circumference, 0.4" W
Materials: Prehnite
BEST GOLD CHAIN ANKLET WITH DIAMONDS
Jennifer Zeuner Elsa Anklet
A little dangle and sparkle up the ante of this delicate chain anklet. Wear yours with everything from low-profile designer sneakers to stilettos.
Dimensions: 9/9.5" L
Materials: Gold vermeil and five 0.015 ctw diamonds
BEST INTRICATE ANKLET
Marlo Laz Southwestern Diamond Chain Anklet
As an ode to the Southwest, this gold-and-diamond anklet makes an utterly unique statement with intricate floral and paisley motif detailing.
Materials: 14k yellow gold with 35 diamonds (0.50 ctw)
How should an anklet fit?
The appeal of anklets lies in their ability to effortlessly accentuate the ankles, an often overlooked but subtly sensual area. A precisely calibrated fit is essential. “Make sure it isn’t too tight, so it rests on your anklebone, as this is an area that you want to look delicate and not accentuate,” says Cassie Smart, head of womenswear at MatchesFashion.
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This article originally appeared in Harper's BAZAAR US.