Socks are no longer just for practical use, like preventing blisters or staying warm. Today, with playful prints, unique fabrics, and bold silhouettes, socks are as stylish as bucket hats or statement earrings. Take the trendy knee-high socks, for example. Once tied to preppy school uniforms (think Blair Waldorf), they are now a street-style staple for fashion enthusiasts.
Socks can also bring a touch of sophistication to your outfits. According to Toronto and NYC-based stylist Kim Appelt, “Knee-high socks are a great accessory to elevate your winter wardrobe with a polished edge. They add personality to any look.” Before temperatures hit freezing, try sheer knee-high socks for a chic touch. Pair them with a pleated miniskirt or micro shorts to show off the style. If it’s colder, go for wool or ribbed cotton knee-highs with cropped jeans or trousers for a cozy yet stylish vibe.
When it comes to footwear, choose a style that suits the season. Ballerina flats are perfect for this time of year, especially for holiday gatherings. “Delicate and timeless, flats like Chanel’s classic ballerinas create an elegant and feminine look when paired with knee-high socks,” says stylist Kim Appelt. As the snow starts to fall, swap flats for tall boots to stay stylish and warm.
Looking for more ways to style knee-high socks? Keep scrolling for outfit inspiration!
Double Down On Prints
Maximalist fashion lovers adore pattern mixing, and this leopard-and-floral combo is a standout choice. Take it up a notch by adding a bold, colorful bag to the ensemble. Balance the vibrant look with pointelle knee-high socks and classic black leather Mary Janes.
Monochromatic Moment
Knee-high socks and Bermuda shorts might seem like an unusual pairing, but influencer Alyssa Coscarelli shows they can work perfectly. The key is sticking to a neutral color palette, such as trendy khaki tones, for a cohesive and modern look.
White hosiery adds just the right amount of contrast to neutral tones, creating a statement that’s subtle yet striking.
Mad For Plaid
Though the chilly weather has arrived, fall isn’t over just yet. If you haven’t worn your favorite plaid miniskirt, now’s the time. Embrace the autumn vibes by pairing it with burgundy ballet flats or Mary Jane heels and cozy black cotton socks for a stylish look.
Leg-Baring Bloomers
If you’re in a warmer climate this fall and winter, try pairing your socks with trendy bloomers. Add an edgy leather jacket and a sleek suede bag to complete the look, ensuring you stay stylish and put-together, even if you feel like you just rolled out of bed.
Festive Velvet
Got a few holiday events lined up? Arrive in style by wearing a soft velvet mini dress. Pair it with sheer socks and your favorite pointy-toe heels for a subtly sultry, festive look.