Why Anklets are this Summer’s Hottest Jewellery Trend

As the Y2K fashion revival continues, one of the era’s defining accessories is making a comeback. Anklets, once as ubiquitous as low-rise jeans and butterfly hair clips, have become one of the most sought-after jewellery items for this season, as fashion-forward shoppers put their own modern twist on this 90s/2000s style staple. 

Ankle bracelets have a rich history dating back to ancient Sumerian, Egyptian and Indus Valley civilizations. Ancient anklets were crafted from materials like bone and wooden beads, while others were made from gold and silver to indicate wealth.  

Over the decades, the anklet has made the transition from cultural status symbol to casual accessory. And with summer approaching, an anklet is a great way to draw attention to freshly tanned legs and polished pedicures. But it’s not just made for barefoot boho looks and beach days. Ankle chains are sparkling on the streets of LA as today’s celebrities emulate Y2K sensations like Britney and Christina, adorning their ankles with a selection of stylish chains. 

Why are Anklets Trending Today? 

The return of the anklet, like many recent style throwbacks, is deeply rooted in nostalgia, as Millennials look back lovingly on their youth and Gen Z explores the retro mystique of the Y2K period. But it’s more than that: Anklets also align with the current maximalist jewellery trend, which rejects “quiet luxury” in favour of loud, joyful self-expression. Stacked, blinged-out or loaded with charms, the modern-day anklet makes a bold statement. 

Who’s Leading the Anklet Trend? 

The ankle chain has plenty of star power. These are just a few of the celebs who have been embracing the trend: 

Kylie Jenner 

Kylie Jenner was ahead of the curve when she attended the Chanel SS25 Haute Couture show wearing a gold ankle bracelet and a delicate chain belt to complement her monochrome two-piece tweed ensemble. The double-wrapped anklet with dangling Chanel logo paired beautifully with Kylie’s black Chanel heels. 

Hailey Bieber 

The anklet has been a go-to accessory for starlet Hailey Bieber for several years now. Many times, she’s been snapped sporting a sparkly ankle chain with bold red heels. And Hailey is staying on-trend in 2026 by adding something extra-special to her latest ankle bracelet. In January, she debuted her gold “Jack” anklet by Alex Moss New York – a personalised design featuring her son’s name spelled out in an elegant cursive script.  

Rihanna 

Rihanna made fashion headlines a few years back when she attended the Las Vegas Grand Prix wearing a diamond-encrusted wristwatch as an anklet. The 18-carat white gold watch featured a three-strand strap adorned with no less than 155 diamonds. Rather than ordinary heels or flats, the singer wore her unusual anklet over a pair of pantaboots – high-fashion leggings with built-in, pointed-toe stiletto heels. This surprising and playful styling choice elevated the anklet, using it as the centrepiece of an unforgettable fashion moment. Rihanna still regularly wears anklets today, although her more recent pieces have been decidedly more understated.  

Gigi Hadid 

Gigi Hadid’s look at last year’s Havaiannas launch party took the anklet back to the beach. Gigi, a global Havaianas ambassador, wore the Sculptural Gem Tweed minidress by Marc Jacobs and a pair of co-designed thong sandals in a bright, summery yellow. She completed the look with a set of colourful beaded anklets and a pale blue pedi. 

Kim Kardashian 

Kim Kardashian recently showed off the anklet trend in a more serious setting, wearing a gemstone-studded diamond tennis anklet to court as she testified about the infamous jewellery robbery of 2016. The piece is a Mother’s Day gift from Kim’s daughter North West. Created in collaboration with XIV Karats, the personalised anklet features four birthstones representing each of Kim’s children: A pearl (North), blue tanzanite (Saint), garnet (Chicago) and emerald (Psalm). 

Five Ways to Style an Anklet 

1. Stacked  

Create an anklet stack using two or three different metals and textures. For example, you can pair a dainty gold chain with a chunkier silver band or a pearl-studded piece. Contrast this dressy look with more laid-back footwear like ballet flats or loafers. 

2. Simple 

Go the classic route with a single gold or silver anklet and a pair of black heels. This creates an elegant look for date night or cocktail events.