Finding the Perfect Anklet Length to Suit Your Style
Anklets are a fun way to accessorize, adding a delicate detail to your ankles. With so many anklet styles to choose from, one of the biggest considerations is finding the right length that complements your outfit and activities. Whether you prefer a short or long anklet length, learn how to determine the ideal size anklet for you.
Ankle Bracelet Length
The standard ankle bracelet length sits right at the ankle bone, between 4 and 6 inches. This versatile mid-length flatters most ankles. It’s short enough to be seen with flats or heels, but still peeks out from normal pants or jeans. Ankle bracelets come in everything from dainty chains to beaded wraps.
Foot Chain Length
Foot chain anklets measure between 12 and 16 inches, wrapping under the arch of the foot and around the ankle with a 2-3 inch jump ring. The extra length lets them peek out from wide leg pants or maxi skirts. Go for a chunky curb or snake chain for a standout foot anklet.
Barefoot Sandal Length
Extra long anklets 16-18 inches work well as barefoot sandal jewelry. The long length wraps halfway up the calf with enough excess chain to intricately lace up the leg Flaunt with shorts, skirts or dresses. From glitzy charms to boho beads, barefoot lacing anklets make a striking style statement.
Best Length for Petite Ankles
Delicate ankles call for slimmer anklet styles and shorter lengths. A thin rolo or box chain ankle bracelet with a 4-5 inch length highlights daintier ankles. For a leg-lengthening effect, try wearing your ankle bracelet over an invisible sock or footless trouser.
Best Length for Athletic Ankles
Active ankles need an anklet length that allows freedom of movement. Avoid longer lengths that could catch on shoes or get tangled during sports. Opt for a lightweight 3-4 inch ankle bracelet length in a smooth beads or chain that sits snugly on the ankle. Titanium, rubber and silicone anklets also work well.
Factors Affecting Ideal Length
- Shoe height – Anklets peek out best from flats or low heels vs. tall boots.
- Bottoms – Longer lengths stand out from wide legs rather than skinny jeans.
- Setting – Intricate lacing suits dressy occasions, simple chains for casual everyday.
- Activity level – Active lifestyles do better with shorter lengths of 6 inches or less.
- Ankle width – Narrow ankles suit slimmer chains, wider ankles balance chunkier styles.
- Personal style – Eclectic dressers can rock an asymmetrical lacing, whereas minimalists may prefer a simple short chain.
Tips for Measuring Anklet Length
- Use a flexible tape measure to measure above ankle bone to determine bracelet length.
- For foot chain length, wrap tape measure around ankle and under arch of foot.
- Add an inch to desired length if wearing over stockings or socks.
- If worn on the toe, measure around the toe then add 1-2 inches.
What Length is Most Flattering?
The most flattering anklet length Flatters your legs and ankles. Petite frames and slimmer ankles balance a shorter 3-5 inch anklet. Ankles that tend to swell fit better with a looser 6-8 inch length. Fuller figures can pull off a statement foot chain anklet. In the end, choose the anklet length you feel most confident rocking.
Finding your perfect anklet length is about balancing comfort, self-expression and flattery for your unique style. With the wide variety of anklet sizes, designs and materials, you can easily find the right fit to show off your ankles in fashionable ankle bling year-round.
FAQs about Anklet Length
The average anklet size is about 25 centimetres. Larger ankle bracelets of 27cm accommodate women with larger ankles or with ankles prone to swelling.
If you are wearing bracelets or rings on your right side, you may want to wear the anklet on the left ankle to balance out your look, and vice versa. Even still, there are no rules about which is the correct ankle to wear an ankle bracelet on, so pick the side that feels best for you!
Sizes may either range from 8 to 9 inches for a small up to an extra large of 11 to 11.5 inches. Jewelry designers may either list the ankle bracelets according to small, medium, large, etc. or size according to inches.
An ankle bracelet should fit comfortably around the ankle, not too tight or too loose. It should sit just above the ankle bone and not slide up or down the leg. If the anklet is too tight, it can cause discomfort or skin irritation. If it is too loose, it can slide down the leg and become lost.