As a fashion stylist and writer, I endlessly follow and dissect trends. As with most things, not all trends are equal or worth discussing. However, when a good one comes around and around again, it is hard not to notice. One such trend, socks with heels, continues to have their ‘it’s cool to show again’ moment in the spotlight on runways and street style.
The socks with heels trend is not new, having previously had its no more bare ankles moment in the ’60s as a sporty alternative. In the ’70s, they were often paired with wooden platform sandals, while knit versions made a statement on Vivienne Westwood’s runway. The ’80s became a very Versace moment, with the original supermodels showing us that the trend wasn’t a dowager moment but a rather chic one.
They went viral again in the ’90s due to the movie Clueless, and designer Miuccia Prada almost always has an incarnation of the trend in each of her seasons. In 2024, they were a hot trend again in Paris, on and off the runway.
From ankle-length to crew and knee-high styles, socks in vibrant colors, striking patterns, and unexpected fabrics are no longer just an accessory—they’re often the centerpiece of an outfit.
As someone who has always appreciated and collected socks, I wholeheartedly embrace the recurrence of the visible-socks trend.
What’s not to love? The style is fun, versatile, and affordable.
With endless ways to make this look your own, below are a few ways to rock, style, and play with the trend, showing a little personality along the way.
Mixed metals
Silver embellished socks with gold shoes
Monochromatic
Sheer black stockings with black strappy sandals, chunky loafers with black embellished socks, or lace black socks with suede stilettos
Mixing prints
Tartan plays nicely with tweeds or checks for a fun clashing of prints
Dainty meets faux fur
Think of a white bow-embellished sock with fuzzy faux fur sandals. Striking? Yes. Polarizing? Yes, Easy to wear? Yes!
Sequined
For a fun going-out option, a sequin sock is always ready to hit the dance floor. Pair it with a similar metallic silver sandal.
Sporty
Tube socks never looked so glam as when paired with a kitten heel shoe.
Color-blocked
For a statement look, try pairing two punchy colors together. Think ruffled teal socks paired with simple suede pumps in purple.
Embellished
Embellished hosiery a great way to amp up a structured simple dress. For a nostalgic 1970s flair, match over-the-knee socks with faux pearls worn with wooden platform sandals.
