Forget flashy statements; the latest trend in menswear is focusing on the subtle yet impactful adornment of the ankle. As seen in the Spring/Summer 2027 collections, designers are elevating footwear and lower leg styling with delicate ribbons, straps, and embellishments that add a touch of refined detail. This shift signals a move towards more intricate and personalized expressions of style, moving beyond traditional footwear choices.
The Rise of the Ankle Adornment
Dries Van Noten’s Spring/Summer 2027 Ready-to-Wear collection prominently featured ballet flats adorned with ribbons tied around the ankle. These weren’t just simple ties; multiple layers of fine cords wrapped the ankle, creating a look that was both delicate and striking. This detail added a sophisticated yet playful element to the garments. Similarly, Ralph Lauren and Dolce & Gabbana showcased espadrilles with ribbon detailing that wrapped around the ankle, echoing this emerging trend.
This focus on the ankle is a notable departure from recent seasons. While flip-flops dominated runways just last year, the current landscape sees a prevalence of straps and ribbon details that gently embrace the ankle. This subtle yet significant detail is making a strong statement in men’s fashion, challenging traditional notions of masculine adornment.
Challenging Gendered Styling Norms
What makes this trend particularly intriguing is its appearance on menswear runways. Delicate ribbons and fine strap details have historically been associated with feminine styling. Designers are now deliberately leveraging this perception, reinterpreting these elements in a masculine context. While shoes with straps extending up the ankle, reminiscent of gladiator sandals, have existed before, the nature of the straps has evolved. Earlier iterations often featured robust and structured designs, whereas contemporary versions emphasize lightness and a more decorative, almost playful, quality.
The Dries Van Noten collection, for instance, highlighted how these ribbon details can transform a simple shoe into a statement piece. The emphasis is not necessarily on wearing overtly ribbon-adorned shoes, but rather on incorporating ankle-focused accessories. This can be achieved by adding anklets or decorative straps to existing footwear, offering a versatile way to adopt the trend.
‘Little Treats’: The Power of Small Details
Stylists are identifying this focus on ankle embellishments as part of a broader trend towards “Little Treats.” Marcus Allen, a stylist, noted this emerging theme ahead of the menswear fashion weeks, suggesting that small, delightful additions to an outfit are becoming a new source of enjoyment and personal expression. These “treats” can range from keyrings and brooches to, now, ankle accessories.
The sentiment is that previous focal points for accessories, such as wrists (bracelets) and necks (necklaces), are becoming less prominent or even considered dated. The ankle is emerging as the new canvas for personal style. This shift encourages a more detailed and thoughtful approach to dressing, where even the smallest elements can contribute significantly to the overall look.
Exploring the Trend: Anklets and Ankle Straps
To embrace this trend, consumers can explore various options. Brands like Jil Sander offer ring anklets, while Brunello Cucinelli provides sterling silver and hematite anklets. Ganni also features charm detail anklets. These pieces, whether minimalist or more ornate, allow individuals to experiment with accentuating their ankles. The key is to find accessories that complement personal style and add that “little treat” to elevate everyday wear.
The evolution of men’s fashion continues to push boundaries, with the humble ankle becoming the latest area for creative expression. By incorporating delicate straps, ribbons, or standalone anklets, men can add a unique and sophisticated dimension to their wardrobe, signaling a refined understanding of contemporary style trends.
