Buy an anklet: The underrated summer classic
Buying an anklet: The underestimated summer classic. In short: Anklets have a history spanning thousands of years. In ancient Egypt, women of all social classes wore anklets; gold anklets signaled wealth, while simpler versions were widespread. In practice, a 45 cm chain sits at the collarbone and thus suits almost every neckline. The ratio of pendant weight to chain thickness is crucial; this is where most chains fail.
Status: September 2026. By Phil Oberlaender, Corelune Jewellery, Düsseldorf.
In Southeast Asia (India, Bangladesh), anklets (payal or pajeb) are still a part of traditional women's jewelry today, often featuring tinkling bell pendants. In Western cultures, they came into fashion in the 1970s (hippie movement) and again in the 1990s.
The anklet is the most unknown piece of jewelry on the body, yet simultaneously one of the most sensual. Sitting on the ankle, often only visible upon closer inspection, it is a piece of jewelry for people who know what they are wearing without needing to show it to everyone. This guide explains everything about anklets in 2027.
History of the anklet
Why are anklets so relevant in 2027?
Three trends are converging: the beach aesthetic trend (anything that smells of the sea, summer, and freedom), the quiet luxury trend (discreet pieces with meaning), and the body jewelry trend (jewelry worn all over the body). The anklet serves all three simultaneously.
Types of anklets
Fine gold chain
The most classic of all anklet designs: a thin gold chain (0.8 to 1.5 mm) around the ankle. Subtle, elegant, and almost always visible on a tanned or fair ankle. Very minimalist and looks beautiful in photos.
Anklet with pendant
A fine chain plus a small charm—star, moon, shell, infinity symbol. The pendant dangles while walking, adding movement to the look. Very popular and highly versatile.
Pearl anklet
Small glass beads or real pearls strung together as an anklet. Boho look, very summery, fits wonderfully with swimwear. Often colorful or in natural tones.
Surf anklet (cord)
A cord or woven bracelet around the ankle, typical of beach and surf culture. Very casual and natural. Often in natural colors or earth tones.
Combining anklets
- Anklet + sandals: Gold anklet over open sandals, very Ibiza, very summery
- Anklet + barefoot at the beach: The purest look, chain directly on the ankle, sand between the toes
- Anklet + sneakers: Avant-garde and surprising; the chain flashes out from under the sock
- Multiple anklets: 2 to 3 different thin anklets stacked, maximalist on the ankle
Sizing for anklets
Measure the ankle circumference (measuring tape around the ankle joint). Standard women's anklet: 23 to 26 cm. Allowance for a loose fit: +2 to 3 cm. Anklets with an extension chain (3 to 5 cm) are the most flexible option.
Material recommendation for anklets
Anklets frequently come into contact with water, sweat, and sand. Best materials: solid stainless steel (very durable) or genuine 14k gold (water-resistant). Gold-plated silver: Handle with care; regular contact with seawater wears down the gold plating.
What can you find at Corelune regarding anklets?
For the perfect summer ankle, at Corelune Jewellery you will find anklets for every look and every occasion.
Discover anklets, summer on the ankle!
Matching this: Making your own jewelry vs. buying: What makes more sense.
Which chain length sits where?
| Occasion | Recommended chain | Reasoning |
|---|---|---|
| Office | Fine chain, 45 cm | Visible, but not dominant |
| Sports | Short curb chain or none | Less movement, less snagging |
| Evening | Longer chain with pendant | Draws the eye, works over solid-colored fabric |
| Vacation | Waterproof stainless steel | Does not need to be removed for swimming |
Is the extra cost for chains worth it?
With chains, the price increases primarily with the amount of material and the number of moving parts. Ordering several items at once reduces the unit price significantly more than choosing a cheaper alternative. Those looking for substance that lasts for decades end up with solid gold and a different price level.
Which bad purchases can be avoided with chains?
Purchases usually go wrong where trend and personal style diverge. Size specifications are skipped, material descriptions are skimmed over, and the clasp is not even considered. The rule of thumb is: buy for the everyday life you have, not for the one you imagine.
What can chains handle in everyday life and what not
Most damage does not occur in the bath, but during sports, while sleeping, and when putting on or taking off clothes. Sauna and heat do not damage the material, but they accelerate the wear on coated parts. Everything else is uncritical, and constant protection makes an everyday piece pointless.
Further reading: Garnet jewelry: The underestimated January birthstone.
Frequently asked questions
Which chain length suits my neckline?
The uncritical choice is 45 cm, as the chain sits at the collarbone. Measuring is done with a tape measure plus two centimeters of slack.
Can two chains be combined effectively?
Yes, but with a clear length difference of about five centimeters. If the chains are too close together, they will twist, and the pendants will cover each other.
My chain clasp is sticking, what helps?
It is almost always due to residue in the clasp, not a defect. Move it briefly in warm water with a drop of dish soap, follow up with a soft toothbrush, and pat dry.
Get specific with these pieces: Pearl shell necklace in gold made of stainless steel and Gold link chain made of stainless steel, 30 to 40 cm. You can find more necklaces in the category the necklace collection.
About the author
Phil Oberlaender manages Corelune Jewellery in Düsseldorf and has been working with stainless steel jewelry daily since 2024: quality control, complaints, and everyday wear tests. The information in this article comes from our own assortment and from customer feedback. Where Corelune does not offer something, it states so here.
Which categories match this topic?
Specifically for chains, this means:
The unit price drops from two items: 20% off 2, 25% off 3, 30% off 4, 35% off 5, and shipping is free from 59 euros. Combining is especially worthwhile with chains because two lengths offer more possibilities than one.
View sea and beach jewelry at Corelune
More on the topic
- Buying a bangle: The underestimated jewelry classic
- Buying an anchor chain: Style & History
- Buying a men's stainless steel bracelet: Width, length, and what fits the wrist
Matching items in the shop: Heart charm bracelet in gold and silver, model 2 and Simple heart charm bracelet made of stainless steel, plus all models under Women's bracelets. Free shipping from 59 €, 14-day returns.
At Corelune: Free shipping from 59 €, 14-day returns, 20% discount from 2 items.
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