ARVENIER
Wear an anklet so it sits just above the ankle bone, loose enough to move but not so loose it slides over the heel. You can wear it on either ankle. Anklets show best with cropped trousers, skirts, dresses and sandals, and woven cord anklets are the easiest everyday style.
Getting the fit right
Measure around the ankle just above the bone and add about 1–2 cm. Most adult ankles measure 21–25 cm. Sliding-knot and woven anklets adjust to most sizes; chain anklets usually have an extension chain.
Which ankle should you wear an anklet on?
Either. In India anklets (payal) are traditionally worn as a pair, one on each foot. In casual Western style a single anklet on one side is more common. Choose the side that will not rub against a shoe strap.
Anklets in Indian tradition
Silver payal with small bells are part of bridal and festive dress in many regions. Many families traditionally avoid gold on the feet out of respect, which is why silver and silver-tone anklets are most common. A woven or beaded anklet is a casual alternative for everyday wear.
What to wear with anklets
- Flat sandals, kolhapuris and slides.
- Cropped jeans, culottes and palazzos that end above the ankle.
- Midi and maxi skirts, sundresses and beachwear.
- Avoid with socks or ankle boots, where it gets hidden or snagged.
Care
Cord anklets fade in chlorine and salt water. Rinse in fresh water after the beach and let them dry. Take metal anklets off before swimming.
Anklet styles to know
- Woven and friendship-cord anklets: colourful, adjustable and casual.
- Fine chain anklets: subtle sparkle, sometimes with a small charm.
- Bead and shell anklets: beach and holiday styles.
- Payal with ghungroo: traditional Indian anklets with small bells, worn as a pair.
- Layered anklet sets: two or three thin strands worn together.
Anklets for weddings and festivals
For Indian weddings and festivals, a pair of silver-tone payal with small bells completes a lehenga or saree, especially with flat juttis or mojaris that leave the ankle visible. Choose lighter, finer payal for long days of standing and dancing; heavy anklets can rub the skin. For mehendi and haldi, colourful woven or bead anklets match the playful mood and handle turmeric and henna better than polished metal.
Layering anklets
Two or three thin anklets can be worn together on one ankle, much like a bracelet stack. Mix one chain with one woven cord, keep the lengths slightly different so they do not twist together, and leave the other ankle bare or with a single fine chain.
Frequently asked questions
Is it okay to wear an anklet every day?
Yes. Woven and steel anklets handle daily wear best. Check plated chains regularly for weak links.
Can men wear anklets?
Yes. Woven rope and bead anklets are popular unisex beachwear.
Should an anklet be tight or loose?
Loose enough to slide slightly over the ankle bone, but not so loose that it slips over the heel.