Finding Your Perfect Anklet or Bracelet Size: A Step-by-Step Guide

one black and one brown leather bracelet with peacock pearl beads sitting on a white sand dollar
Leather anklets / bracelets by Sunlight SIlver Jewelry

Choosing the perfect anklet or bracelet isn’t just about style—it’s also about ensuring it fits comfortably. Whether you’re shopping for yourself or buying a gift, knowing how to find the correct size is essential. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you measure your wrist or ankle accurately.

Understanding Sizing Basics

Before we show you how to measure your anklet and bracelet sizes, it's helpful to understand the general sizing guidelines for anklets, bracelets, and cuff bracelets:

  • Anklets usually come in standard sizes ranging from 8 to 11 inches.
  • Bracelets are typically available in sizes from 6 to 9 inches.
  • Cuff bracelets require measurement of the widest part of your hand for the best fit.

These measurements, however, can vary depending on the style and brand. It's always best to measure your wrist, hand, or ankle to ensure a perfect fit.


Read on to learn how to measure your anklet and bracelet size. 

Tools You'll Need

To measure your wrist or ankle, you'll need a few simple tools:

  • A flexible measuring tape, a narrow strip of paper, or a piece of string
  • A ruler (if using paper or a string)
  • A pen and paper to note your measurements for future reference

Now we will show you how to measure your anklet and bracelet sizes.


How To Measure Your Wrist for a Bracelet

Here’s how to measure your wrist accurately:

  • Step 1: Wrap the measuring tape, narrow strip of paper, or string around your wrist. Place it just below the wrist bone (where you’d normally wear your bracelet).
  • Step 2: If you’re using a strip of paper or a string, mark the point where it overlaps, then lay the paper or string flat and measure its length with a ruler.
  • Step 3: Add about ½ to 1 inch to this measurement depending on how loose or tight you prefer your bracelet to be. This will be your bracelet size.

For example: If your wrist measures 6.5 inches, adding 0.5 inches will give you a bracelet size of 7 inches for a close fit. A bracelet size of 7.5 inches would have a loose fit. 

Fit will also depend on the style of the bracelet. See the special considerations section below for more details. 

How To Measure Your Ankle for an Anklet

Anklets require a slightly different approach:

  • Step 1: Place the measuring tape or string around your ankle, just above the ankle bone.
  • Step 2: If using string, mark where it meets and measure this length with a ruler.
  • Step 3: Like with bracelets, add about ½ inch to this measurement for a snug fit or up to 1 inch for a looser fit.

Example: If your ankle measures 9 inches, adding 0.5 inches will give you an anklet size of 9.5 inches.

Fit will also depend on the style of the anklet. See the special considerations section below for more details.

Pink heart shaped ruby and sterling silver cuff bracelet sitting on white crystals.
Ruby Heart and Sterling Silver Cuff Bracelet by Sunlight Silver Jewelry

How To Measure Your Hand for a Cuff Bracelet

Cuff bracelets are designed to slip over your wrist and sit snugly without closing completely. To ensure a comfortable fit, you’ll need to measure the widest part of your hand:

  • Step 1: Bring your thumb and pinky finger together as if you’re about to slide a bangle over your hand.
  • Step 2: Wrap the measuring tape or string around the widest part of your hand, usually across the knuckles.
  • Step 3: If using a string, mark where it meets and then measure the length with a ruler.
  • Step 4: This measurement will help you determine the size of the cuff bracelet. Many cuff bracelets are adjustable, but getting the correct size will ensure the best fit.

Example: If the widest part of your hand measures 8 inches, look for a cuff bracelet that matches this size, or is slightly larger, to slide comfortably onto your wrist. If the cuff is wide, you may need to go a little larger in size. 


Our beaded gemstone and leather bracelets (like those pictured below) are like a cuff. To put the bracelet on, you slide it over your hand. Then tighten the adjustable clasp to get a perfect and comfortable fit around your wrist. 

picture of three gemstone and leather bracelets on a wrist. the girl  is wearing a white shirt and denim jeans. her hand is in her pocket
Gemstone and Leather Bracelets by Sunlight Silver Jewelry

Special Considerations

Before you make the anklet or bracelet purchase, you'll want to take a moment to consider some important things that may affect the fit of your new bracelet or anklet.  

  • Consider the style of the anklet or bracelet. For example, chunky or wide jewelry pieces may need a slightly larger size for comfort. Adding at least 1 inch to your wrist or ankle measurement is best. Dainty, small, or light pieces may not need more than 1/2 inch added to your wrist measurement.
  • Consider the fit of the anklet or bracelet. Would you like it to hug your skin tightly or be a little loose? Some anklets are designed to be worn loosely, so adjust your measurements accordingly if you prefer a more relaxed fit. Ask yourself how you would like it to fit if you are wearing the anklet or bracelet in a hot or humid environment.
  • Consider the material: Bracelets or anklets made with stretchy materials like elastic may not require additional length, whereas rigid materials like metal may need extra room for comfort.

Tips for Buying Online

When shopping online, check if the retailer provides a sizing guide. Many stores offer specific recommendations based on the style and material of the jewelry. If you're in doubt between two sizes, most of the time it is safer to choose the larger size. 

However, our adjustable anklets can only be sized larger and not smaller. For these, it is best to go with a smaller rather than a larger size. 

If you end up with a bracelet or anklet that is too small, a jewelry extender like these below can be used to lengthen the bracelet or anklet. 

Finding the perfect anklet, bracelet, or cuff bracelet size is all about getting an accurate measurement and understanding your personal comfort preferences based on the materials the bracelet or anklet is made up of. With these simple steps, you can confidently choose the right size, ensuring that your jewelry not only looks great but feels great too.


Whether you’re buying for yourself or as a gift, a well-fitted anklet, bracelet, or cuff bracelet is a timeless accessory that adds charm and elegance to any outfit. Happy shopping!

stack of three leather and bead ankle bracelets
Leather anklets / bracelets by Sunlight Silver Jewelry

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