Anklets

How to choose an anklet

Start with the effect you want. A fine chain is the most versatile ankle bracelet for women: our gold anklet, dotted with small round beads, stays discreet enough for the office and still shows in sandals. Charms bring movement and a holiday mood; the shell anklet combines a double chain with shell, dolphin and starfish charms and small pearls. For something softer, the pearl anklet pairs white imitation pearls with a gold-tone chain, with spaced large pearls or a full pearl chain. And for him, the men's anklet uses a wider 6 mm flat curb chain that lies flat on the ankle.

Gold, silver or 925 sterling silver

A gold anklet warms up tanned skin and pairs with white linen, cream or terracotta; a silver ankle bracelet feels fresher with denim, navy and grey. Most of our anklets are gold-tone or silver-tone stainless steel, which copes well with everyday wear. If you prefer a precious metal, the sterling silver anklet is made of 925 silver and comes in three fine chains: beaded, twisted or sparkle. Not sure what the stamp means? Read what does 925 mean on jewelry. The exact material is listed on each product page.

Length and fit at the ankle

An anklet should sit just above the ankle bone and move freely without slipping over the heel. Our chains measure about 20 to 23.5 cm (8 to 9.25 in), and most come with an extender chain: fasten it on a shorter link for a close fit, or on the last one for a lower drape over the top of the foot. To check your size, wrap a soft tape just above the bone and add about 2 cm. Buying a gift? The extender is a safe bet when you do not know the exact size.

How to wear and layer anklets

Anklets show best with bare feet, flat sandals, espadrilles, or cropped trousers and loafers worn without socks. To layer, wear two chains on the same ankle with different textures, such as a fine beaded chain with pearls, or mix gold and silver for a relaxed look. Want to go further? The foot chain links an anklet to a toe ring like a barefoot sandal, and an adjustable gold toe ring in gold-plated copper adds a small detail in open sandals. For the beach or a summer party, the body chain draws a fine beaded Y over the chest and torso, best paired with other silver-tone pieces.

Caring for anklets: water, sand and sunscreen

Ankle jewelry lives close to water, sand and creams. Take your anklets off before swimming in the sea or a pool, put them on once sunscreen and body lotion have dried, and rinse off sand and salt in fresh water before patting them dry with a soft cloth. Sterling silver naturally darkens with air and moisture, and plated or gold-tone finishes last longer away from friction and abrasive products. Store each chain flat in its own pouch so the fine links do not tangle. Our guide does stainless steel tarnish explains how steel behaves over time.