12 Best Tennis-style Anklets Summer Creators Recommend
Introduction
Timelessness lives in the small things: the way a gold chain catches sunlight, the soft chime of a charm against bare skin. I’ve always believed a great anklet does exactly that — it makes summer feel curated, effortless, and a little celebratory. As someone who follows top YouTube stylists and jewelry reviewers religiously, I leaned on their expertise and my own testing to choose the pieces below. These are the 12 best tennis-style anklets creators I trust recommend for warm-weather wardrobes.
Why I trust tennis-style anklets (and why you will, too)
Top YouTube channels like TheStyleInsider, AnnaLaMode, and JewelryWithJess have dissected ankle layers for years; they know balance, durability, and trend cycles. I wanted anklets that look luxe but live through beach days, backyard parties, and everyday errands. Each pick blends refined sparkle with wearability — the sort of piece creators wear in videos and for real life.
How I chose these anklets — buying criteria I used
I used four clear filters: material quality (solid gold, vermeil, sterling silver, or durable plated brass), clasp reliability (lobster, spring ring, or adjustable slider), stone security (well-set CZ, diamonds, or secure micro-prong setting), and chain construction (cable, curb, or box for strength and lay). I also considered ankle fit ranges (typically 8–11 inches for adjustability), weight (light enough for comfort), and water resistance for summer use.
1) Mejuri Diamond-Cut Tennis Anklet — 14k Gold Vermeil
Overview & materials: This Mejuri anklet is 14k gold vermeil over sterling silver with diamond-cut cubic zirconia stones spaced evenly along a fine box chain. It measures 9 inches with a 1-inch extender for flexible fit.
Design & aesthetic: The diamond-cut CZs have a crisp, icy sparkle without being flashy; the vermeil finish offers that warm, wearable gold tone I reach for in summer. The box chain sits flat on the skin, catching light when you walk.
Functionality & wear: The lobster clasp is sturdy; I’ve worn it poolside and had no visible wear after several weeks. Designers on YouTube praise Mejuri for everyday luxe, which matches my experience — it elevates sandals or rolled-up denim.
Personal note: I wore it to a beachside dinner and loved the subtle clink it made. It layered beautifully with a beaded ankle bracelet for contrast.
2) Gorjana Power Gemstone Tennis Anklet — Gold Plated
Overview & materials: Gorjana’s Power anklet is gold-plated over brass with small, faceted genuine peridot beads alternating with micro CZ stations. Length is 8.5 inches with a 1-inch extender.
Design & aesthetic: Peridot adds a fresh green flash perfect for summer greens and whites. The mixed-texture look—sparkly CZs and matte gemstone beads—feels artisanal yet polished.
Functionality & wear: Gorjana uses soldered links on key stress points, which creators often highlight as a mark of durability. I found it comfortable for all-day wear and resistant to light splashes.
Personal note: Paired with linen shorts, it felt effortlessly coastal. Viewers on several style channels often recommend Gorjana for vacation jewelry staples.
3) Missoma Pave Station Anklet — 14k Gold Vermeil
Overview & materials: Missoma’s anklet is heavy 14k gold vermeil with pave-set cubic zirconia stations across a fine curb chain. It comes in 9-inch length with a 1-inch extender.
Design & aesthetic: The pavé settings create a ribbon of sparkle; the vermeil plating is richer and thicker than standard plating, which creators like TheStyleInsider often cite. The curb chain keeps a subtle weight and excellent drape.
Functionality & wear: I appreciated the secure lobster clasp and reinforced end rings. It handled beach-to-dinner transitions without tarnishing over a long weekend.
Personal note: I layered this under a simple charm anklet and loved the high-shine contrast. It photographs beautifully for Instagram-style flatlays.
4) Monica Vinader Fiji Friendship Anklet — Rose Gold Vermeil
Overview & materials: This piece is 18k rose gold vermeil over sterling silver with bezel-set freshwater pearls set as tiny stations on a cable chain. Measures 9 inches with extender.
Design & aesthetic: The warm rose tone and soft pearls are summer poetry — delicate and feminine. The bezel settings protect the tiny pearls from wear and keep a clean profile.
Functionality & wear: Monica Vinader is known for long-lasting vermeil; creators recommend it for heirloom-feel jewelry at more accessible prices. I wore it in humid weather and saw no flaking.
Personal note: It paired beautifully with woven sandals and a flowy maxi; the texture contrast struck me as very seaside-luxe.
5) Ana Luisa Classic Tennis Anklet — Recycled Sterling Silver
Overview & materials: Ana Luisa offers a recycled sterling silver tennis anklet with bezel-set moissanite stones across a flat curb chain. Length 9 inches with 1-inch extender.
Design & aesthetic: The bright, eco-friendly silver tone reads modern and clean. Moissanite has a diamond-like brilliance with higher fire, which creators focused on as budget-sensible sparkle.
Functionality & wear: The clasp and jump rings are soldered and plated against tarnish; the chain’s flat curb links prevent twisting. I found it one of the most comfortable, zero-weight options.
Personal note: I used it for a weekend walking tour; the reflective stones gave a continuous soft twinkle with movement.
6) Kendra Scott Druzy Station Anklet — Gold Plated
Overview & materials: Kendra Scott’s anklet is gold-plated over brass with small drusy (sparkly crystalline) stone stations and micro CZ accents. Comes in 9-inch length with adjustability.
Design & aesthetic: Drusy surfaces look like tiny geodes — textured sparkle that’s tactile and eye-catching. The combination of drusy and gold-plating screams boho-chic, ideal for festival or surf-town dressing.
Functionality & wear: The polished plating resists light wear; connectors have extra soldering. You’ll want to avoid heavy chlorinated pools, but everyday coastal wear is fine.
Personal note: I adore the raw sparkle contrast under sun with sandals; creators often layer drusy pieces for depth.
7) Zoe Chicco Diamond Bezel Anklet — 14k Yellow Gold
Overview & materials: Zoe Chicco’s anklet is 14k solid yellow gold with bezel-set single-cut diamonds spaced along a delicate cable chain. Typical length available: 9 inches with a short extender.
Design & aesthetic: Solid gold changes the game — it’s warm, buttery, and long-lasting. The bezel settings protect the diamonds and keep a smooth, refined edge that’s perfect for daily wear.
Functionality & wear: This anklet is investment-grade; I wore it during humid travel and saw no wear. Top jewelry reviewers recommend solid gold for pieces you want to keep forever.
Personal note: The understated sparkle reads expensive without shouting, and it pairs easily with wedding bands and delicate rings for a matched-metal look.
8) Catbird Tiny Bubble Anklet — 14k Gold Filled
Overview & materials: Catbird’s Tiny Bubble anklet is 14k gold-filled with tiny rondelle beads alternating with minute CZ stations. Length 8.5–9 inches.
Design & aesthetic: The tiny bead texture makes for a soft, tactile sheen that moves gently. Catbird’s aesthetic is cottagecore-meets-urban-chic; creators cite its comfortable, lived-in feel.
Functionality & wear: Gold-filled holds up better than plated in everyday scenarios; the bead chain resists kinks. I slept, showered, and walked the city in it; cleaning was minimal.
Personal note: It’s my go-to when I want subtle texture without bling. It layers well under anklets with larger stones.
9) BLANKNYC Pavé Tennis Anklet — Sterling Silver with Pavé CZ
Overview & materials: BLANKNYC makes a sterling silver anklet with pave cubic zirconia stations and a durable lobster clasp. Typical length 9 inches with 1-inch extender.
Design & aesthetic: The cooler silver tone feels modern and pairs beautifully with denim and sneakers. Pave CZs mimic diamond pavé for dramatic sparkle without the price.
Functionality & wear: Solid sterling silver with rhodium plating resists tarnish; creators recommend rhodium for long-term shine. I wore it in humid summer weather with zero discoloration.
Personal note: It’s the perfect match for sporty sandals and casual summer dresses when you want a clean, bright look.
10) Missoma Chunky Curb Tennis Anklet — 14k Gold Vermeil (Chunky)
Overview & materials: A chunkier take from Missoma, this anklet is 14k gold vermeil with tiny bezel-set CZs interspersed along a heavier curb chain. Length 9 inches with adjustable links.
Design & aesthetic: The chunky curb chain gives the anklet a bit of weight and presence — great for minimalist-sandal days when you want a statement. The CZs soften the bolder chain with specks of sparkle.
Functionality & wear: It lays flat and resists flipping, a common comfort issue. Creators often praise chunkier anklets for their perceived luxury; I agree — this piece reads substantial.
Personal note: It pairs exceptionally well with leather sandals and a woven tote for an elevated casual look.
11) Cartier-inspired (not Cartier) Pavé Anklet — Sterling Silver Vermeil by Lili Claspe
Overview & materials: Lili Claspe’s pavé anklet is sterling silver base with heavy vermeil and micro-pave CZs across a slim curb chain. Lengths typically 8.5–10 inches (adjustable).
Design & aesthetic: Inspired by fine French styling, it has that old-world, refined energy without the fine-jewelry price tag. The micro-pave work produces a continuous glimmer that reads editorial.
Functionality & wear: The thick vermeil resists rubbing; careful care extends its life. I found the clasp mechanism secure for active days.
Personal note: I wore it to an outdoor wedding rehearsal and received multiple compliments; it photographs like real jewelry.
12) Tiffany & Co. Return to Tiffany Inline Heart Anklet — Sterling Silver
Overview & materials: This is a sterling silver anklet from Tiffany & Co. featuring the iconic “Return to Tiffany” heart station combined with a slender pave-like link pattern. Lengths vary; many choose the 9-inch for anklets.
Design & aesthetic: The iconic heart gives instantly recognizable elegance and a nod to classic American jewelry. The polished silver finish is cool, reflective, and timeless.
Functionality & wear: Tiffany uses high-quality sterling with meticulous finishing; the clasp and chain construction are built to last. Creators often cite Tiffany pieces as foundational for a curated jewelry box.
Personal note: I wore it on a city trip and found it versatile from day-to-night; its weight felt reassuring and polished.
Practical buying advice — what to look for in a tennis anklet
- Materials: Prioritize solid gold or 14k vermeil for frequent wear. Sterling silver (with rhodium plating) is a great cool-toned choice. Gold-filled is a good middle ground for durability and price.
- Clasps & closures: Look for lobster clasps or adjustable sliders. Spring rings are fine if they are well-made, but lobster clasps give more long-term reliability.
- Chain type: Box and curb chains lay flatter and resist twisting; cable chains are classic but can kink easier.
- Stone settings: Bezel and micro-pave protect stones better than simple prongs; for beach days, choose secure settings.
- Length & adjustability: Aim for anklets with at least a 1-inch extender. Typical ankle sizes vary — 8–9 inches fits many, but always check retailer sizing charts.
- Water and wear: If you want pool/beach reliability, go for solid gold, gold-filled, or well-finished vermeil; plated brass may fade with heavy water exposure.
- Weight & comfort: Heavier chains feel luxe but can be bothersome for long wear; lighter chains are perfect if you prioritize barefoot beach comfort.
- Care: Keep jewelry away from harsh chemicals, and store pieces separately to avoid rubbing. A soft cloth wipe after wear prolongs shine.
How to style tennis anklets — creator-approved combinations
- Barefoot beach look: Layer a delicate CZ tennis anklet with a tiny bead piece and a woven friendship anklet for texture.
- Sandal dressing: A chunkier gold curb tennis anklet pairs beautifully with leather gladiator sandals.
- Urban-casual: Wear a sterling silver pavé anklet with white sneakers and cropped jeans to add unexpected polish.
- Evening: Layer a solid-gold diamond bezel anklet with a simple heel and a clutch for low-key glamour.
Quick fit guide — measuring your ankle
- Use a soft measuring tape or string. Wrap it around the narrowest part of your ankle where the anklet will sit.
- Add 0.5–1 inch for a snug fit or 1–1.5 inches for a looser, drapier look.
- Check retailer-specific sizing: many offer 8–10 inches for anklets; pick one with an extender if you’re between sizes.
Care tips creators swear by
- Rinse with fresh water after beach days and pat dry.
- Avoid lotions or perfumes directly on the anklet — chemicals speed plating wear.
- Store flat in a fabric-lined box to prevent tangling and scratches.
- For vermeil/filled pieces, use a mild, non-abrasive jewelry cloth; for solid gold, occasional warm soapy water and a soft brush will restore shine.
FAQ — What readers ask me most
Q: Can I sleep with an anklet on?
A: Generally yes, with lightweight, secure anklets. Solid gold or well-made vermeil is safest; heavy chunky chains can cause rubbing.
Q: Are anklets OK for wide ankles?
A: Look for pieces with a 1–2 inch extender or flexible slider closures. You can also purchase a separate jump ring extension for standard chains.
Q: Will gold-plated anklets rust or turn green?
A: Plating can wear over time, especially with salt, sweat, and chlorine. Gold-filled or vermeil holds up much better for frequent wear.
Q: How many anklets should I layer?
A: Two to three is a comfortable maximum for most looks. Mix textures (beads + pavé) or metals for visual interest.
Q: Can I wear anklets to formal events?
A: Absolutely. Choose refined pieces like solid gold or minimal pavé styles; keep the rest of the jewelry understated.
Final thoughts — my trusted picks for different priorities
- Best everyday sparkle: Mejuri Diamond-Cut Tennis Anklet — versatile and durable.
- Best for eco-conscious shoppers: Ana Luisa Recycled Sterling Moissanite Anklet.
- Best statement: Missoma Chunky Curb Tennis Anklet — bold with refined sparkle.
- Best investment piece: Zoe Chicco 14k Gold Diamond Bezel Anklet — heirloom quality.
- Best boho-sparkle: Kendra Scott Druzy Station Anklet — texture-forward and festival-ready.
These 12 anklets represent a mix of creator-favored brands and practical design choices I personally tested and vouch for. Whether you want subtle sparkle under sandals or an anklet that reads like fine jewelry, there’s a piece here for your summer rotation. Have a specific budget, metal preference, or styling need? Tell me and I’ll narrow the list to the best match for your lifestyle.