Skinny ankles are a privilege I have never known. Even in middle school, the sneakers we wore with our uniforms didn’t fit me the same way they did those with smaller calves and ankles. And if we’re being honest—I’ve always been insecure about it. Trying on a pair of boots or even the early 2000s’ favorite jewelry trend (anklets, of course) has always come with the risk that I won’t get the right fit. Though plenty of shoe brands have started crafting wider widths and calf-openings, jewelry seems to be lagging behind. Having options for extended-length jewelry like plus-size anklets means everyone can be part of a trend—and that’s incredibly important.
Anklets aren’t the first early aughts trend we’ve seen resurface, but they’re certainly one of the most unexpected. Alas, trendy accessories from that era—like butterfly clips and comb headbands—are making a comeback. Unlike most hair accessories, though, anklets aren’t one-size-fits-all. Some folks, much to the surprise of jewelry-makers everywhere, have larger ankles and need extended-length options. It’s not a novel concept, but for those who have difficulty finding jewelry that fits their bodies correctly, it’s a big deal.
Everyone (and every body) deserves a chance to try a trend out—full stop. Sadly, most trends don’t pop up in size-inclusive retailers until they’ve been seen on every thin influencer on social media, but there are always a few exceptions. Brands like Torrid and ASOS have blessed us with quite a few plus-size anklets, so you can live your 2003 dreams without the fear your jewelry won’t fit around your ankles.
Throw a few on with your favorite cropped jeans or a cute mini dress this season. Perfect for wearing whenever your ankles make an appearance, extended-length anklets are the early-aughts-inspired jewelry trend that everyone should try at least once—and now, no matter your size, you can.