Anklets, also known as ankle bracelets, have long been worn by women as fashion accessories. However, in recent years, anklets have become increasingly popular among men as well. So, can men wear anklets? The short answer is yes! Here is a closer look at the history of men’s anklets, the styles available, and tips for wearing them.
History of Men’s Anklets
Anklets have historically been worn by women, but men have worn them too throughout history. Here is a brief overview:
- In ancient Egypt, both men and women wore anklets as ornaments. They were made of various materials like gold, silver, beads, etc.
- Roman and Greek soldiers wore leather anklets for protection in battle.
- During the 1960s and 1970s, hippies adopted the anklet as part of their style. Both men and women wore casual, beaded anklets.
- In the 1970s, athletic socks were popularized as casual wear. This evolved into the ankle sock, which created a practical need for men to wear anklets.
- In the 1980s and 1990s, punk rockers and rebellious youth adopted the anklet as an accessory.
- In the 1990s and 2000s, anklets became a trend in male fashion, moving beyond just a functional sock accessory. Designers started creating more ornate, jewelry-style anklets for men.
Today, anklets for men are widely available from many major fashion brands and designers. The style has expanded beyond punk and athletic roots to enter mainstream fashion.
Modern Styles of Men’s Anklets
There are a few main styles of anklets worn by modern men:
Athletic Anklets
These are functional ankle socks, worn to hold the sock in place when wearing sneakers. They are plain, thin bands worn just above the ankle bone. Common materials are cotton, nylon, spandex blends. These remain popular for sports and athletic shoes.
Fashion Anklets
This style makes a bold fashion statement. Materials include silver, gold, leather, hemp, beaded cords, etc. Some have pendants or charms attached. These anklets come in various widths – both wide cuff styles or narrow bands. Popular finishes are plain, etched, twisted, braided, etc.
Beaded Anklets
Boho or surfer inspired ankle bracelets made of various beads, wood, shells, etc. These casual anklets have a hippie or beach vibe. Popular for summer and with casual outfits.
Why Do Men Wear Anklets?
There are a few reasons why anklets have gained popularity among men:
- Fashion – Anklets offer a way to accessorize and add visual interest to an outfit. They provide a subtle edge to personal style.
- Function – Athletic anklets keep socks securely in sneakers for active sports. The anklet has functionality for athletes and runners.
- Self-expression – Choosing an anklet with a meaningful pendant or charm allows men to communicate something about themselves or their beliefs through their accessory choice.
- Sex appeal – Anklets have a slight association with being alluring. Some men may wear them to enhance their attractiveness.
Tips for Wearing Men’s Anklets
Here are some tips for wearing anklets stylishly:
- Choose the right width – narrow bands suit formal outfits, wide cuffs for casual styles.
- Match metals to other accessories like watches and jewelry.
- Consider sock height – anklets work best with no-show or short socks so they remain visible.
- Wear proportionate to your ankle size – a chunky anklet overwhelms small ankles.
- Select colors and materials that complement your skin tone.
- Consider personal meaning – get engraved messages, birthstones, symbols, etc.
- Don’t overdo it – one ankle bracelet provides enough accent.
- Mix and match – beaded, leather, silver, gold anklets create interest when worn together.
Who Can Wear Men’s Anklets?
Anklets for men have become widely accepted in society today. They are a versatile accessory that can be worked into many wardrobes and styles. However, perceptions may vary by things like:
Age
Younger generations are typically more receptive to men wearing anklets. Those 40 and under probably view it as a fashionable accessory. Older generations may still view anklets as taboo for men.
Professional field
More creative and artistic professions like music, media, fashion, are more open to gender fluidity in accessorizing. Conservative fields like finance, law, medicine may still raise eyebrows at a man in an anklet.
Geographic region
Places like urban cities and liberal regions are more progressive. Rural or traditional areas may be less accepting of things they view as gender bending.
Overall, attitudes have shifted to be more inclusive about things like men wearing anklets. But old stigmas still echo in some subsets of society. The most open environments will be metropolitan, youthful, and creative professional settings.
The Verdict
So – can men wear anklets? The answer is a resounding yes! Anklets offer a way for men to accessorize and show off their personal style. Once viewed as a women’s fashion, anklets now come in masculine designs suited for the modern man. While some old stigmas still exist in corners of society, anklets have reached mainstream acceptance as a fashion item any man can feel comfortable wearing in 2023 and beyond.
