The Dos and Don'ts of Anklets: Workplace Edition

To the girlies who want to wear your anklet everywhere… we see you. Maybe you have a collection of different styles and you love showing them off no matter the occasion- grocery store runs, beach days, camping trips, nights on the town, at work, you name it. 🏖️⛺🍸

But, sometimes the question comes up: are anklets unprofessional? The last thing you want to do is look out of place in a new environment or get in trouble for breaking the dress code in daunting situations. We’re here to set the record straight and fill you in on everything you need to know about anklets and what they mean for dress codes and professionalism.

You may already know this, but there are so! many! different types of anklets out there. Nowadays, you can get your hands on the perfect anklet bracelet for any setting. At Pura Vida, we have sophisticated and stunning 18k gold and sterling silver varieties that will shine in those more professional settings. To balance, we have fun, vibrant string, beaded, and braided anklets for the more casual moments. It's all about matching the style to the setting.

If this resonates, keep reading: we’ll cover everything you need to know to rock your anklet with confidence.

Are Anklets Unprofessional?

So, for once and for all: are anklets unprofessional? Let’s cut right to the chase - they’re not. At all. There is one condition, though: you always need to ensure you're wearing the right anklet for the dress code in question. There’s always a chance an anklet ends up being too casual for work, a wedding, or other formal settings. But thiis is true for *every* element of your outfit - your shoes, your top, your pants - all of these are things you need to come into consideration when dressing for an elevated event or setting. Here are a few examples where people may view anklets as unprofessional… 😲

Are Anklets Seen as Unprofessional at Times?

Anklets are sometimes perceived by some as unprofessional in certain settings because of their connotation with the beach and summertime. Anklets are often seen as lightweight jewelry that's worn during leisurely times. And, we totally get it - you don't want to be taken too casually at work or at a formal event.

So if you find yourself asking Google: ‘are anklets unprofessional?’ You’re not alone. There are definitely certain types of anklets that you should avoid if the dress code calls for something more formal or professional. Or, you can always elevate your collection with a more formal anklet - what better way to still show off your fun personality while adhering to the dress code?

What Types of Anklets are Professional?

Good question! 🤔 As mentioned, it really comes down to matching the material to the vibe. It’s true: strings, beads, or braids can definitely be too casual for certain workplace dress codes, formal weddings, or a fancy dinner. The good news? There are limitless anklets made from precious metals that can elevate your look. Here's what boxes you should check when looking for a professional anklet...

Anklets for More Formal Occasions

Pro tip: any sterling silver anklet or 18k gold anklet will do the trick when it comes to elevating your look for a more formal affair - after all, 18k gold and sterling silver are classics when it comes to jewelry materials.

It’s no coincidence that these are the two materials we've used when creating our demi-fine anklets. Demi-fine jewelry is an excellent choice when you’re gunning for a more elegant and sophisticated vibe. These styles meet perfectly at the crossroads of fashion and luxury.

By choosing anklets that fall under this umbrella, you’ll never look or feel out of place with your anklet choice. The dazzling gold or silver anklet will still allow you to have some fun while accessorizing and showing off your personality without feeling too casual. But, what if casual is what you’re aiming for? 

Anklets for Casual Settings

Casual settings always come with more relaxed rules. You sort of have free reign here in choosing your anklet in these situations. With that said, when it comes to caring for your pieces, something from the demi-fine collection wouldn't be a great fit for camping trips or days on the beach. These are more delicate, and you wouldn't want to risk damaging them while you're out having fun.

If you're looking for anklets for casual settings, you'll want to stick with those either made from strings or beads. At Pura Vida, these styles are what we’re known for! Our vibrant, unique string anklets are perfect for everyday wear. Or, you can level up with something a bit more eye-catching like our braided anklets, beaded anklets, or woven anklets.

But that’s enough on what you wear… that’s only part of the equation. What it really comes down to is how you wear it...

Advice for Wearing Anklets in Style, Regardless of Dress Code

Hopefully by now you’re feeling more confident in choosing the right piece of jewelry based on the setting. In our minds, there's never a bad time to wear unique ankle bracelets. We can’t stress this enough: it's all about 1️⃣which specific type of anklet you wear, and 2️⃣ how you wear it. Here's some additional advice for curating your outfit and leaving the house feeling confident and beautiful:

• Choose an anklet that's the same color as your shoes! This will tie your whole look together and you can rest easy knowing it will be cohesive. On the other hand, there's nothing wrong with creating a bit of contrast and showing off your adventurous side - just keep those looks limited to those more casual settings.
• Layer up! Try to mix and match different styles of anklets so that you create a unique composition of colors, textures, and materials. You can do this in formal settings by mixing and matching metals in gold and silver anklets. In casual settings, you can do it with different colors or styles - match some beads with some braids. We have an article on how to wear multiple bracelets - that same advice applies to anklets.
• Match the rest of your outfit. You came here to learn - are anklets unprofessional? And you now know that they’re not when you’re matching the energy around you. Well, guess what? the same goes for the rest of your outfit. Make sure you're keeping that in mind when entering a new or elevated situation!

At Pura Vida, we know how important it is to feel good in what you wear - no matter the occasion. So, with what you now know, don't let anyone tell you that anklets are unprofessional. As long as you choose wisely based on dress codes, there are plenty of ways to show off your personality through artisan jewelry like our anklets in a poised, professional way. Want to learn more about how to wear anklets? Check out our detailed guide with tips and inspo!

Shop at Pura Vida for the Most Stunning Selection of Anklets Online

When in the market for a new anklet (professional or casual), you don’t have to look further than Pura Vida. Our handmade anklets are one of the best ways to put the unique finishing touches on your outfit and let your personality shine through your accessories.

Beyond style, our jewelry serves as a constant reminder to embrace the Pura Vida lifestyle. This way of life encourages you to slow down and celebrate life's simple pleasures as you encounter them daily. After all, our name translates to "Pure Life" - and you can keep this message with you day in, day out with a beautiful piece of jewelry around your ankle.

The best part? With each purchase, you are helping us further our mission to leave this world a better place than we found it. Your purchase helps us give back with charitable contributions, assist with disaster relief, plant trees, offset carbon emissions, and take on other initiatives that create a better planet. Finally, a stocked online shopping cart you can feel great about. 😉

Not sure where to start? Want a personalized recommendation? Check out our article on the best ankle bracelets for some of our personal favorites right now!

Wrapping Things Up

Long story short: are anklets unprofessional? Def not - but approach with caution. There are some anklets that would be considered a bit out of place in more formal settings, but you can always count on more sophisticated anklets for those moments. It's all about choosing the right accessories for the event - just like you do for bracelets, earrings, necklaces, rings - etc.

When you want to look professional with your anklet, avoid anything too loud or complex - opting for simple and elegant. You can, of course, find plenty of those here at Pura Vida. If you’re still unsure though, take a look at what other people are wearing in that setting or think back on what you’ve worn in similar situations.

We’re always here to help you make sure you feel confident, on-trend, and beautiful on every occasion. And, if the dress code allows anklets, don't forget to have fun with them and express yourself without going overboard.