Anklets are trending for SS26 - here's how to style them


From which ankle to wear it on to the It-girls leading the revival, here's your ultimate guide to styling an anklet in 2026


Paola Alberdi is seen wearing Bottega Veneta Mesh Heels outside the Alberta Ferretti show during Milan Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2020 on September 18, 2019© Getty Images
Hello Fashion
Orion ScottStyle Editor
Tania LeslauFashion Features Editor
Updated: 7 days ago
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Thinking of getting a charm necklace to accompany your upcoming summer-fuelled seasonal ensembles? Think again because they’re so last year.

There’s a new trending accessory on the rise for SS26 - and the likes of Iris Law and Rita Ora have already adopted it into their everyday wardrobe.  That's right, the anklet is back and better than ever. 

According to Pinterest, UK searches for “anklets for women” have increased by 100 per cent week-on-week, 40 per cent month-on-month and 2,500 per cent year-on-year. Meanwhile, Google searches for “which ankle to wear an anklet” are up more than 5,000 per cent over the past 12 months.

A guest wears blue heeled sandals outside Christopher Esber during Womenswear Spring/Summer 2025 as part of  Paris Fashion Week on September 26, 2024 in Paris, France. © Getty Images
When necklaces, rings and bracelets aren't enough, add an anklet

Jewellery brand PRYA notes: "The trend comes as fashion continues to embrace Y2K styling, with anklets returning in more elevated forms, from delicate chain styles and personalised pieces to pearls, charms and coastal-inspired designs. The comeback has also been fuelled by celebrity influence, including Hailey Bieber's custom 'Jack' anklet earlier this year."

What is an anklet?

Essentially just a bracelet but for your foot, anklets come in a variety of different styles and are designed to be fixed around your ankle and worn with bare feet at the beach or with flats and sandals as an extra outfit elevation. 

Aylin Koenig wearing Ganni skirt, Fendi bag, Balenciaga shoes, Ganni knit, sunglasses Gucci seen during New York Fashion Week Spring/Summer 2019 on September 12, 2018 in New York City© Getty Images
Anklets are a fan favourite amongst stylish fashion week goers

Back in the late 90s and early 2000s, the eclectic jewellery choice was a firm favourite for the likes of Britney Spears, Victoria Beckham and Paris Hilton, all seen donning beaded stacks while out on officially hot-girl business.

Arwa Hassan, in-house style director at PRYA, said: “The Y2K staple was on every red carpet in the early Noughties up until the 2000s. Whether you prefer sleek tubular styles, dainty gold chains or a pearl-encrusted statement piece, there’s an ankle to elevate every look.”

Which ankle should you wear an anklet on?

“There’s no right or wrong way to wear an anklet”, says Arwa. “It’s all about personal preference. Some traditions associate the left ankle with spirituality and the right ankle with wealth and success, but modern styling is all about personal expression.”

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How to style an anklet for SS26?

According to anklet expert Arwa, styling the accessory for SS26 is easier than ever, explaining that: “Ballet flats are not going anywhere. Layer several anklets together for a soft, romantic look.” or, if you’re wanting something a little more subtle: “A minimalist silver anklet stacked with classic black pumps is always a good idea.” If you’ve got a beachside holiday booked, opt for: “Pearl or shell-adorned anklets to channel an elevated coastal vibe.”

Whatever your vibe, anklets are going to be everywhere this season, so get ahead of the game and invest sooner rather than later.