2019 has truly been the year where fashion trends have challenged what counts as stylish. Scrunchies are a fashionable accessory again, chunky (dad) sneakers are in, even glasses chains are trending! So it’s not that surprising that socks and heels are trending — together.
I know that wearing socks with anything other than boots and sneakers (and perhaps the odd time when you slide on your Birkenstocks to get the mail) seems like a fashion choice that only a dad would willingly sport, but maybe dads are on to something! I mean seriously, I’m starting to think I should just start copying my dad’s wardrobe.
Fall is slowly creeping in, so this trend actually comes to us at the perfect time. What better way to continue wearing your summer sandals and heels than to pair them with socks? Not to mention that socks make breaking in new shoes much easier.
Still not convinced? Allow me to walk you through some of the ways you can style the socks and heels trend, from low-key, to statement.
Related post: The Cutest & Most Comfortable Socks We’re Loving RN
The Basics
The most important thing to note with this trend is that not every sandal or heel will work with socks.
Since socks add width to your foot, a mule, for instance, might not fit with a sock. A strappy shoe might restrict the sock, or worse, pinch your socked foot in an unflattering way.
It comes down to trial and error, since some mules actually look fabulous with socks, and some strappy sandals offer enough room for the sock to look chic. Based on my research, the best shoe to wear with a sock is a variation of a basic pump or ankle strap heel.
Fishnet Socks
This is the perfect way to ease into this bold trend. Fishnet socks give a little bit of edge, but much more subtle than a tube sock.
Style a pair of fishnet socks with your favorite loafers for a look that is both campus-chic and comfortable. Or, opt for a pair of heels with your fishnet socks for a glam look.
Monochromatic
Another way to wear this trend is to match your socks to your heels!
Depending on what your color scheme is, this method could be a bold way to make a statement, as model Doina Ciobanu does with her all-pink outfit above.
Or, for a more subtle look, pair a black heel with a black sock (or a white heel with a white sock!). That way, it looks more like a sock boot than a heel with a sock.
Sheer, a la Cher
Sporting a pair of sheer socks with heels is definitely something a modern-day Cher (from Clueless) would do, and that is exactly the kind of 90’s fashion inspiration that we all need in our back to school wardrobe!
Cher always went the monochromatic route and matched her sheer socks to her shoes, but opposites do attract! Contrasting a pair of white heels with a sheer black sock looks very chic, as model Doina Ciobanu proves above.
Socks and Tights
Like the monochromatic sock-and-heel combination, this styling method depends heavily on the color scheme you choose to go with! In the photo above, stylist Emili Sindlev pairs yellow pumps with abstract tights for a fun and quirky look.
However, if you wanted to wear a more subtle version of this look, matching tights to your pumps looks seamless and chic.
Finally, the Tube Socks
This is definitely on the bolder side of the trend! Wearing tube socks and heels is a polarizing fashion issue – you either love it or you hate it. I personally think it can look amazing with the right shoe.
It’s definitely a preppier look, so playing that aspect up with a skirt and blouse will make the sock-and-heel combination look put-together.
Another great way to wear it would be to take another cue from Clueless and play up the 90’s appeal with a plaid set or a layered camisole!
I want to hear from you!
What are your thoughts on this trend? Will you be wearing socks with your heels this fall? Which method is your favorite? Let’s chat about it below.