In case you missed it, this "Controversial" jewelry trend is making a return—here's how to style it in 2026.
Podophobes and those with a fear of feet, it's probably best to look away now. It seems that the latest jewelry trend flooding my feed revolves around "dogs"—and no, I’m not referring to adorable puppies. In this edition of "they brought back what?" we're discussing toes, specifically the once "dated" jewelry trend that is now taking over the wardrobes of Gen Z followers. Yes, you heard it here first—the simple toe ring has made a comeback. Much like many of today’s trending revivals, the toe ring is not new (and a special mention goes to my Aunt Phil, who has been wearing them since the ‘90s). However, it did reach its cultural peak around the turn of the millennium, when everyone, from Britney Spears to the unofficial flip-flop ambassador Jennifer Aniston, flaunted a tiny ring on their toe.
The unofficial symbol of the beach lifestyle and a sign of California cool, toe rings were the understated accessory young celebrities wore to show they were in the loop. Picture Mischa Barton in The O.C., a woman whose seemingly perfect life (and wardrobe) we admired; wearing a toe ring felt like a subtle yet impactful way for us to channel her aspirational, effortlessly cool vibe—sending a message that reads, “I look good, and I know it.” Fast forward 20 years, and the toe ring is back, albeit not quite as you remember. This year, the revival of foot jewelry mirrors the fashion industry's overall shift towards a more-is-more approach. With a strong appeal of "cool without trying too hard," along with Gen Z's fascination with nostalgic fashion, it's no surprise that a jewelry trend once deemed "cheugy" is once again in the limelight.
You might be attracted to boho-inspired spirals or eclectic, embellished gemstones, but the current favorite among A-listers? That would certainly be the ridiculously large diamonds. Think of Kylie Jenner's Loraine Schwartz pinky ring (foot version). If it's good enough for Rihanna, it's good enough for me. While the Spanish jewelry brand Simuero may have led this revival, the return of toe rings felt inevitable. With seasons of sandals laden with metal details, the next logical step was jewelry itself. Especially when you consider they’re the simplest way to add flair to a minimal summer sandal, like the currently trending minimalist flip-flop.
With brands like Alohas, Chan Luu, and Charlotte's Web Jewellery all embracing foot embellishments, as well as various high street names, the return of toe rings is certainly here to stay. While embellished sandals ruled the warmer months, come autumn, expect toe rings to transition to more divisive footwear (who doesn’t love a gem-studded Vibram FiveFinger or four-toe sandal?). So if your toes need some bling, look no further; I’ve compiled a list of the best toe rings available right now.
Shop The Best Toe Rings Below:
Free People
Heart of Gold Toe Ring
Daisy London
Polly Crystal Knot Toe Ring
Free People X Brenda Grands
Penelope Waterproof Toe Ring
Scream Pretty
Double Band Toe Ring
Accessorize
3-Pack Mix Diamanté Toe Rings
H&M
3-Pack Metal Toe Rings
Other articles
In case you missed it, this "Controversial" jewelry trend is making a return—here's how to style it in 2026.
Apologies to podophobes and those afraid of feet, but toe rings are making a comeback in 2026. Here’s how fashion experts are modernizing their appeal.
