Anklets, ankle chain, ankle bracelet, and ankle strings, are one and the same thing, depending on how you know it, is an ornament worn around the ankle.
The history of anklets is profound. They have dual meanings across time and culture. They are often associated with sexual promiscuity but can also be used to signal social status, power, independence, also worn as an amulet, talisman or good luck charm.
Anklets, have made their way across the Atlantic and are now commonly worn by people everywhere. In the west, the current interpretation is equivalent to that of a bracelet or other jewellery item.
Historically, they have been worm for a variety of reasons, including as a symbol of marriage in India and as a sign of social standing in Ancient Egypt.
They were traditionally given to the bride by the broom as a symbol of his love and desire to become her legal husband, much like the wedding Rick is worn on the left ring finger to express the wearer's marital status.
Though they once carried significant values, such associations have faded away over the decades.
How ever, nowadays individuals wear them for the same reasons they wear any other piece of jewellery.
The fashionability of anklets rises and falls, but we still enjoy wearing them. They are a fun and flirty accessory for spicing up casual attires or adding finishing touch to more formal outfits.
Here are a few places you can confidently rock your anklets with pride; the beach, hotel pool, at a festival, meeting up with friends, while on vacation and at a party meeting new friends. And how to rock them to complement your look; miniskirt, little black dress, bodycon dress, leggings, etc. This is always a simple yet effective way to highlight your fabulous choice of footwear.
Recommended for people who love subtle and casual fashion, adding a muted elegance to your look.
The use of anklets has been the most controversial fashion among ladies in Nigeria. Both men and women wear anklets during cultural festivals and other special ceremonies like chieftaincy titles conferment or coronation.
Anklets worn by the Igbos connotes prestige, wealth and beauty. They are made with brass, beads and elephant tusk.
In some Yoruba communities, they are worn by certain chiefs as insignia. The worshipers of deities also wear anklets as insignia of their offices and to signify spiritual children.
Among the Hausaa, some of them west anklest to beautify the feet on their wedding day. It signifies protection and identification of certain qroups.
In some societies, it is used to identify gay community or commercial sex workers, while in some other part, it is used as contraceptive to prevent pregnancy.
This trend in fashion is also a money making venture.