What is an Anklet?
Last updated 2026-06-15
Anklets — also called ankle bracelets or ankle chains — are one of the most ancient jewelry forms, with archaeological evidence of ankle adornment dating back to ancient Sumeria, Egypt, and India, where they carried cultural, spiritual, and social significance. In many South Asian traditions, anklets (payal or pajeb) remain an important ceremonial and daily accessory, often featuring bells or charms that create a pleasant sound while walking. In Western contemporary fashion, anklets occupy a distinctly casual, warm-weather niche. They are primarily a summer accessory, most visible and effective when worn with sandals, open-toed shoes, cropped pants, shorts, skirts, or at the beach. A fine gold or silver chain anklet adds a subtle, bohemian touch that suggests effortless style and a relaxed attitude. This laid-back association is core to the anklet's appeal — it is the antithesis of formal jewelry, conveying ease and approachability. The most wearable anklet styles are simple, fine-gauge chains in gold or silver, sometimes with a single small charm or gemstone accent. These minimalist versions are subtle enough to wear daily through summer months without feeling costume-like. Thicker chains, multiple-strand designs, and charm-heavy anklets make more of a statement but can look dated or costume-ish if not styled carefully. Fit and length are important practical considerations. A standard anklet length is 9-10 inches, which sits comfortably above the ankle bone with a small amount of drape. Too tight and it looks constrictive and uncomfortable; too loose and it slips down over the heel or catches on shoe straps. An adjustable chain with an extender is the most practical choice for achieving a comfortable fit across different activities — standing, walking, and sitting all change how the anklet sits relative to the ankle.
During summer months, Lily adds a dainty 14K gold chain anklet with a tiny turquoise bead to her daily accessories — it peeks out above her sandals and adds a subtle boho touch that consistently draws comments at outdoor brunches and beach gatherings.
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Questions, answered.
Which ankle should you wear an anklet on?
There is no widely recognized modern convention for which ankle to wear an anklet on — choose whichever feels more comfortable or looks more balanced with your outfit and other accessories. Some people choose the ankle opposite their dominant hand for a sense of visual balance, while others simply pick the side that feels most natural. Historical and cultural traditions assigned meanings to left versus right ankle placement, but these vary so widely across cultures that no universal significance applies in contemporary Western fashion.
Can you wear an anklet with closed-toe shoes?
You can, but the styling impact is significantly reduced since the anklet is largely hidden. With boots and most closed shoes, an anklet is essentially invisible and serves no aesthetic purpose. Anklets work best with shoes that expose the ankle area — sandals, slides, mules, open-toed heels, and ballet flats with cropped pants. If you want ankle-area accessories with closed shoes, a visible sock or the hem of your pants becomes the focal point instead, and the anklet adds only a personal, hidden detail that you know is there.