When it comes to cutting Gen Z some slack, it’s not always easy for a millennial like me. But over the last few years, I’ve got to give credit where it’s due. Thanks to an obsession with nostalgic Y2K trends, some of my most-loved fashion pieces have earned the TikTok generation seal of approval – including the anklet. Yes, the same accessory once reserved for holidays and teenage girls is officially back.
There’s something weirdly comforting about the anklet’s comeback, a bit like last year’s revival of the Longchamp (or ‘Clossic’) bag, which is still going strong, or the return of ombré hair, now rebranded as recession blonde. Unlike the more divisive crop top and carrot top jeans (IYKYK) or bandage dresses, these trends are accessible, fun, and won’t cost your entire month’s salary. “Accessories are a cheap way of personal expression within a trend,” says fashion stylist Cara Leps. “As anyone can pull this off no matter their body shape.”
It feels like, for summer 2025, we’re all craving a simpler time, when a Friday night dash into Topshop meant you’d grab your favourite piece of Freedom jewellery, throw on jeans-and-a-nice-top, and call it a look. And for all my TS stans out there, the countdown is officially on: Topshop is set to return to the high street in August 2025.
Experts Features in This Article
Cara Leps is a fashion stylist and expert at Babble and Style
Lara Grayson is a celebrity stylist and fashion editor
“This summer is all about volume with a Y2K influence,” says Leps. “Think bubble skirts with a touch of grunge.” It’s this kind of contrast that gives the trend a modern twist and according to Leps, the key is simple: more is more. “We’re accessorising our necks, arms, and bags, so it’s only natural our ankles get a moment now that it’s summer,” she tells PS UK. “It is an easy extension, or micro trend, for those who may want to adopt for a short period of time without a huge investment.”
Celebrity stylist Lara Grayson agrees. “As someone who wears ankle bracelets all year round, I can’t wait to get mine out,” she says. But the difference between this trend and your teenage holiday buy is all in the styling. “Just like you’d stack your wristwear, this summer you want to do the same to your ankles,” she says. “Double up, mix gold and silver, clash widths and textures – the key is to make it your own.”
Layering is also a major part of the look. “You can keep it simple and chic with a single chain,” says Leps, “but this summer is your chance to go bold, layer different materials like fabric scarves, beads, and charms.”
Personally, I’ve always felt like an anklet makes you look instantly polished. Whenever I see a woman with adorned ankles, I (probably unfairly) assume she’s got her life completely together. I mean, if you’ve remembered your earrings, your bracelets, and also your anklet, you must be winning at this thing called life.
Me? I usually save mine for holidays, when I give myself permission to be my most stylish, carefree self. But this summer, I’m ready to fake it on the school run and my local high street. And if it means someone will pass me in the street and believe that by wearing an anklet I’ve got my life together? Then count me in.
Here are some of my favourite anklet’s that I will be wearing all summer long.
