As flip-flops and barely-there sandals continue their reign, anklets and toe rings are stepping back into the spotlight. Here are six pieces worth adding to your jewelry collection.
Lately, there’s been a subtle shift in fashion that’s impossible to ignore, yet surprisingly few people are talking about it. Fashion’s latest muse? Bare feet (and no, not in the fetishized way the internet might immediately assume). In fashion, it’s less about being barefoot and more about drawing attention to the feet themselves. Scroll through TikTok or look at the season’s biggest accessories, and you’ll notice the same thing: toe rings, anklets, barefoot sandals, and shoes designed to show off as much skin as possible. The feet are now the focal point.
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Why We’re Accessorizing Our Feet
If you’ve been paying attention to fashion over the past year, you’ve probably noticed that many of the biggest trends have centered around what’s happening below the ankle. It wasn’t too long ago that we were talking about the return of flip-flops as the shoe of the season. A year later, they’re still everywhere—and speaking from experience, I get the hype. If I could wear flip-flops everywhere, I would. They’re comfortable, effortless, and somehow manage to work with almost everything in my wardrobe.
Since then, footwear has continued moving in one direction: less coverage, more foot. Fashion houses have leaned into the idea, with pieces like Chanel’s sole-less sandals pushing the boundaries of what a shoe can even look like. Meanwhile, brands are reimagining the humble flip-flop through high-fashion collaborations, from Havaianas teaming up with Isabel Marant to the same brands borrowing the split-toe silhouette made famous by Maison Margiela in their collaboration with P. Andrade. Once reserved for beach trips and quick errands, flip-flops have officially earned their place as a fashion essential.
It also explains why anklets and toe rings are suddenly back in the conversation. The more skin your shoes reveal, the more opportunities there are to accessorize. A great pair of flip-flops already makes an outfit feel current, but adding a delicate anklet or a toe ring gives it a little more personality. It’s a styling detail that most people won’t immediately notice, but the people who do will appreciate it. An anklet suggests you’ve thought through every part of your outfit, while a toe ring feels a little unexpected—an understated way of showing your personal style extends all the way to your toes. If you’re feeling brave enough to accessorize your feet while wearing flip-flops, we’ve curated six accessories to add a little bling to your stompers.
Shui Mixed Mini Glass Charm Anklet by Isla PH
If you’re fully committing to the island girl fantasy, the Shui Mixed Mini Glass Charm Anklet deserves a spot in your jewelry rotation. Strung with colorful mini glass charms and finished with 18k gold-plated stainless steel details, it adds just the right amount of playful sparkle. Whether you’re heading to the beach or simply dressing like you are, it instantly makes flip-flops feel more intentional.
Women’s Anklet Afraima by GLAMIRA
For those who prefer their jewelry with a touch of old-school glamour, GLAMIRA’s Women’s Anklet Afraima is an easy choice. Crafted in 18-carat gold and finished with a 0.05-carat lab-grown diamond, it’s proof that anklets can be just as luxurious as necklaces or bracelets. Pair it with sleek sandals or minimalist flip-flops and let the jewelry do the talking.
Micah Gold Anklet by Penny Pairs
Minimalists, this one’s for you. Penny Pairs’ Micah Gold Anklet features an elongated paperclip chain that feels understated yet modern. It’s an everyday piece you’ll forget you’re wearing until someone compliments it. Wear it on its own for a clean look or layer it with other anklets if you’re feeling a little more maximalist.
Rita Toe Ring by Simuero
If subtle isn’t your thing, the Rita Toe Ring by Simuero is designed to steal the spotlight. Its shiny stone catches the light from every angle, turning one of the smallest accessories in your outfit into its biggest conversation starter. Equal parts glamorous and playful, it’s made for those who believe more sparkle is always a good idea.
GAIA Toe Ring by Gloriae
With its Art Deco-inspired design, the GAIA Toe Ring by Gloriae proves that toe jewelry can feel just as sophisticated as the rest of your accessories. It’s bold without being over-the-top, making it an easy way to add an unexpected edge to even the simplest pair of flip-flops.
Surigao Silver Toe Rings Set by Les Beads
For those drawn to a more laid-back aesthetic, the Surigao Silver Toe Rings Set captures that effortless coastal charm. The minimalist silver bands are easy to stack or wear individually, making them perfect for channeling an island-inspired look without going overboard. Consider them the finishing touch to your favorite pair of barely-there sandals.
Banner photo via Instagram @simuero_
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Anklets have made a strong comeback thanks to the rise of flip-flops, barely-there sandals, and footwear that puts more emphasis on exposed feet. They’re one of the easiest ways to add personality to an outfit.
Anklets pair best with footwear that shows off the ankle, such as flip-flops, strappy sandals, slides, ballet flats, and barefoot sandals. They can be worn alone for a minimalist look or layered with other ankle chains.
Yes, provided they’re comfortable and made from durable materials like sterling silver, stainless steel, or gold. Many minimalist toe rings are designed for everyday wear.
An anklet is specifically designed to be worn around the ankle. They are typically longer than bracelets and are often styled with sandals or open-toe shoes to highlight the feet.
The return of flip-flops and open footwear has naturally brought attention to the feet. As fashion embraces more exposed silhouettes, accessories like anklets and toe rings have become an easy way to elevate simple outfits while expressing personal style.
