Which Ankle to Wear an Ankle Bracelet On? Left ankle vs right ankle?

The ankle bracelet has been a stylish form of self-expression for thousands of years. Since the early 20th century, it’s evolved into more of a statement of personal style, but it’s long been used to signify everything from social to marital status. Whether left or right, the particular ankle it’s worn on sends a subtle message.

The Meaning Behind Anklets: History & Cultural Significance

Ankle bracelets have been around for more than 8,000 years. Both men and women in ancient civilizations, from India to Africa and the Middle East, wore them not as just pretty accessories but as a symbol. It might represent their status, encourage fertility, or serve as a form of protection in the form of an evil eye anklet.

Wealthy ancient Egyptians wore anklets made of gold and precious stones; this showed off their higher status. African tribes made woven anklets from strips of leather or cloth. Some were adorned with tiny bells.

Native American tribes wear beaded anklets during various rituals or to ward off evil spirits.

The ankle bracelet has evolved over the centuries. The permanent anklet is a hot fashion accessory, welded at the jump ring, versus being closed with a clasp. It’s a big part of the overall permanent jewelry trend, which is driven by influencers on social media. The number of searches for permanent jewelry has increased by 8 percent, according to data analysis.

Even men wear ankle bracelets as bold statement pieces.

Customers appreciate the beauty, convenience, and ease of wear, as well as the personal, deeper meanings they assign to their piece. Forever Golden offers permanent jewelry in New Jersey; browse our selection of gold and sterling silver chains, then learn how to customize them to your personal style!

Does the Ankle You Wear It On Have Meaning?

In some cultures, it can. For example, wearing an ankle bracelet on the right side generally represents strength and protection (especially if it includes the evil eye symbol).  The left side is associated with feminine energy and intuition.

In the West, the ankle you choose is largely a matter of your personal preference. It may be influenced by your footwear or overall style. Some sport a permanent anklet on both legs (problem solved!).

Wearing an Anklet on the Left Ankle

Because it’s associated with the heart, the left ankle represents romance and love (that includes self-love). In some cultures, an ankle bracelet on the left side signifies marriage or a committed relationship.

It’s also worn on the left to ward off negative energy.

Wearing an Anklet on the Right Ankle

The right side of the body is traditionally associated with masculine energy, protection, and strength. In some cultures, wearing an anklet on the right side indicated availability for marriage.

It’s also the side to wear it on to attract luck and prosperity.

Fashion Tips for Styling Anklets

• Layer multiple anklets; use a bold anklet as the centerpiece, pair with more delicate chains.
• Add personal charms to the anklet.
• Mixing materials and layering gold and silver anklets of varying thicknesses is an edgy look.
• Consider your footwear. Casual shoes or those with chunky heels look great with bolder chains. Sleeker, simpler designs work best with delicate chains.
• Anklets should be worn against bare skin, not over socks or pantyhose.
• Consider your overall style: if yours is more minimalist, opt for lighter chains. If you prefer a more boho vibe, more distinctive links with multiple charms will suit you.

Choosing the Perfect Anklet for Your Style

Gold and silver are timeless metals, built to work with any outfit and any style.  You can either mix them or choose a single palette. 

If yours is a more minimalist style, opt for simpler, lighter chains. If you prefer an edgier look, choose bolder links, even layering multiple styles.

One way of adding personal style to your permanent anklet is to choose from our curated collection of charms. They add extra meaning to your piece.

Types of Anklets You Can Wear

Permanent anklets are available in a variety of chain and link styles. Wear a single chain or layer them for a bolder effect.

How to Measure Your Ankle for the Perfect Fit

The right fit is essential for a permanent anklet. Wrap a soft measuring tape around the ankle bone or just above it.

If you prefer a snug fit, add about 0.5 inch more for comfort. If you plan to add charms, you’ll want about an extra inch added.

How to Care for Your Anklet

Permanent jewelry, like an ankle bracelet, is meant to be lived in. With proper care, it will look beautiful for years to come.

• After being in chlorine or salt water, rinse the anklet with clear water, then pat dry with a soft cloth.
• To understand how to clean silver chains and prevent tarnish, use a soft brush or cloth dipped in warm water and mild soap. Gently wipe the piece down, then dry with a lint-free cloth.
• It’s a good idea to regularly wash your anklet to wipe away dirt, sweat, creams, and body oils. Also, pat dry after you shower.

Permanent jewelry, like an ankle bracelet, is meant to be lived in. With proper care, it will look beautiful for years to come.

• After being in chlorine or salt water, rinse the anklet with clear water, then pat dry with a soft cloth.

• To understand how to clean silver chains and prevent tarnish, use a soft brush or cloth dipped in warm water and mild soap. Gently wipe the piece down, then dry with a lint-free cloth.

• It’s a good idea to regularly wash your anklet to wipe away dirt, sweat, creams, and body oils. Also, pat dry after you shower.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can You Wear an Anklet on Both Ankles?

Yes!  It’s a fun way to express a unique sense of style. Some of our customers even wear stacked bracelets on each ankle.

Can You Wear an Anklet While Swimming or Showering?

A permanent anklet is meant to be lived in, so the answer is “yes.” It’s important to rinse it with water after being in a pool or the ocean, and to pat it dry to prevent tarnishing.

Should You Wear an Anklet with Socks or Shoes?

An anklet looks best against bare skin. Avoid wearing it over socks or nylons. Your anklet will set off any shoe in a stylish way.

Final Thoughts: Make Your Anklet Meaningful & Stylish

Chain ankle bracelets are a versatile accessory with symbolic significance, including whether they're worn on the left or right ankle. This has been true all the way back to ancient Egypt, where intricate designs on ankle bracelets communicated messages about wealth, protection, and even about the status of single or married women.

Traditionally, an anklet on the left leg represents feminine energy, love, intuition, and being in a committed relationship. It's also commonly worn on the left for protection against negative energy.

A right anklet projects strong, masculine energy and attracts good fortune.

Beyond these symbolic meanings, the modern trend of chain anklet bracelets is a unique fashion statement. Permanent anklets, for example, are often worn to represent personal meanings like a special relationship or a Life Event.

In the contemporary sense, wearing an anklet on your right foot can convey the future, a goal, or a forward-looking vision. The left side represents the past, so an anklet worn on the left ankle commemorates a memory or event you never want to forget.

Whether you choose your left or right ankle, charm anklet bracelets are a style statement that's unique to your story. Make it your own by combining metals, link styles, and charms. Wear more than one, or wear them on both ankles. Forever Golden offers elegant designs that look great with other jewelry, and work as well against bare feet as they do when worn with sleek heels.

There's a reason that anklets aren't just accessories: many cultures recognize the symbolic meanings, as well as what they convey about the person wearing them. A new anklet is a fresh way to up your style and subtly share moments from your story. Shop now!