Cable assemblies and connector systems that include magnetic elements are disclosed. The cable assemblies may include first and second cables. A first plurality of magnetic elements may be arranged around the first cable proximate a first end, while a second plurality of magnetic elements may be arranged around the second cable proximate a second end. Magnetic forces between respective ones of the first and second pluralities of magnetic elements may tend to retain the respective first and second ends of the first and second cables proximate one another. The connector systems may include mating retainers, each of which may include a plurality of magnetic elements. Magnetic forces between respective ones of the pluralities of magnetic elements may tend to retain the mating retainers proximate one another. In some examples, the mating retainers may include guiding elements, which may be configured to orient the mating retainers.