10 Takes on Summer’s Playful Jewelry Trend

Amidst sweltering summer temps, one of the most practical ways to add interest to your look without overheating is with some playful accessories, especially this season’s trending jewelry. From fruit-inspired motifs to maximalist charm necklaces, there are so many ways to boost your style this season—but our favorite just may be the revival of a once-forgotten piece. That’s right: The anklet is back at the forefront, making for a styling tool that accentuates your summer statement shoes (and carefree vibes). They’re in conversation with your shoes, hemlines, and other jewelry, bringing a subtle but impactful punch whether you’re into barely there chains or maximalist beaded strands. Ahead, we share all you need to know about the anklet revival, from why it’s this season’s must-have accessory to styling ideas and standout product picks.

The History of Anklets

Anklets have been popular in various cultures, including Ancient Egypt, India, and the Middle East, for over 8000 years. This makes them one of the oldest known pieces of jewelry, and there’s even evidence that women in Babylon wore them. As with other baubles, anklets held symbolic meaning: Many considered them to be signs of wealth, signifiers of marital status, lucky tokens, tools to ward off evil, and signifiers of cultural belonging.

In the modern era, anklets have routinely flowed in and out of the trend cycle. Flappers embraced the piece in the 1920s, taking full advantage of rising hemlines. In the 1970s, anklets got a new lease on life as part of hippie and flower-child style, while in the ’90s and early aughts, they took on a carefree, bohemian energy everywhere from the beach to the red carpet. Now, amidst a sea of nostalgia that’s taking from several of these decades at once (especially the latter two), it’s finally the anklet’s time to shine yet again.

The Anklet Trend in 2025

The latest anklet trend revival is peaking just in time for summer. For 2025, anything goes: Everything from bright, friendship bracelet-inspired anklets comprised of mismatched beads or color-soaked jewels to barely visible, ultra-simple chains are in.

No matter your jewelry preference, you’ll find that aesthetic in an anklet. Jenny Bird has launched an array of discreet and bold chains in gold and silver, while beachy, beaded, colorful pieces are available from the likes of Chan Luu and Olivia Le. Charms, pearls, and gems are also popular additions, bringing a touch of decadence to this traditionally carefree category. You’ll also find layered and multi-strand anklets creating additional personality.

Styling Tips

Just as bangle stacking has made a comeback as a fun way to upgrade virtually any look, you can wear an anklet (or several) with anything you choose. Show a beaded style off with a summery boho skirt, pair a simple chain with your breeziest sundress, or draw attention to the piece with pants that hit just above the ankle. As for shoes, colorful beaded or pearl anklets have a beachy vibe alongside your favorite sandals, minimalist metallics look elevated against a pair of ballet flats, and a mix-and-match stack with some pumps or kitten heel mules feels very Carrie Bradshaw, if you ask us.

Anklets work when worn alone or layered with multiple strands. For a vacation-ready look, play with colors and textures: mix a beaded, colorful anklet with chains or pearls. If you want an anklet that goes with everything, we’d advise choosing a simple gold or silver chain.

If you’re going to the beach or pool, a multicolor beaded anklet will introduce a pop of brightness to your look, and if you’re going to a wedding or formal event, go with pearls or a metallic chain. You can wear them slung high or low, and if you’re wearing a pair of shoes with an ankle strap, experiment with layering for extra intrigue.

Standout Modern Anklets to Shop

Ready to work anklets back into your jewelry rotation? Ahead, we’ve rounded up a few of our favorite styles in 2025, ensuring you have options whether your taste in accessories leans minimal or if you’re looking for something with a bit of extra personality.