How to Wear an Anklet: Which Leg, Which Style and How to Make It Last

Gold anti tarnish evil eye layered anklet for women

Anklets are back in a big way. They are small, light and add a pretty finish to sarees, kurtas, dresses and even jeans. But many women ask the same questions: which leg do I wear it on, which style suits me, and how do I stop it from turning black? Here is a simple guide.

Which leg should you wear an anklet on?

There is no strict rule. In fashion today, most women wear a single anklet on whichever leg they like, often the left. In many Indian traditions, anklets (payal) are worn on both legs as a pair. If you are wearing one anklet for style, choose the leg that shows most when you sit or walk, or the side where you are not wearing a bag strap or a slit.

Gold or silver anklet?

  • Gold-tone anklets look warm and festive. They suit wheatish and dusky skin tones beautifully and match gold earrings and bangles.
  • Silver-tone anklets look cool and fresh. They pair well with white, blue and pastel outfits and with oxidised jewellery.

Gold-tone double-layer anklet with small beads and blue evil eye charm
Gold-tone: Golden Blue Eye Layered Anklet

Silver-tone double-layer anklet with small beads and blue evil eye charm
Silver-tone: Blue Eye Layered Chain Anklet

Not sure which suits you? Read our guide on gold vs silver undertones.

Single, layered or charm anklet?

  • Single chain: best for daily wear and office. Simple and comfortable.
  • Layered anklet: two or more chains give a fuller look without feeling heavy. Great for weekends and holidays.
  • Charm anklet: an evil eye (nazar) charm adds colour and meaning. A popular choice for gifting.

What to wear an anklet with

  • Sarees and lehengas: let the anklet peek out under the hem. Match it with a waist chain for a complete festive look.
  • Dresses and skirts: flat sandals or block heels show the anklet best.
  • Jeans: roll up the hem once. An anklet with cropped jeans and sneakers looks fresh and modern.

Silver evil eye layered chain anklet styled for everyday wear

How to keep your anti tarnish anklet shining

Anklets sit close to the floor, so they meet more water, sweat and dust than other jewellery. A few habits keep them looking new:

  1. Take it off before bathing, swimming and the gym.
  2. Keep lotion and body oil away from the chain.
  3. Wipe it with a soft dry cloth after wearing.
  4. Store it in a pouch so the fine chains do not tangle.

For the full routine, see 5 habits that make anti tarnish jewellery last.

Shop anklets at Adora.Style

Our anklets are made from stainless steel, with an anti-tarnish finish on the gold-tone pieces, so they are light enough for daily wear. Explore the anti tarnish anklets collection, including our Golden Blue Eye Layered Anklet and Blue Eye Layered Chain Anklet.