The It Girl’s Guide to Rocking Socks Like a Street Style Star This Season
When it comes to fall accessories, socks aren’t exactly what you’d call a make-or-break detail. They’re one of those indispensable (and inexpensive) fall basics that exist largely out of practicality — aesthetics are a mere afterthought. Until now, that is. Oddly enough, the humble sock has miraculously shed its not-so-stylish reputation, transforming into a sartorial heavy hitter in its own right. A few tasks on its stacked resume: flawlessly transitioning summery sandals into the new season, breathing new life into tried-and-true steppers and adding an element of visual intrigue to even the snooziest of separates. We’ll take it. Ready to give the trend a try but don’t know where to start? We’ve compiled this handy little guide to get you on the right track. Scroll on for 11 Instababe-approved looks to try now.
1. Go monochromatic. A great way to start easing into this WTF trend? Ever so slowly. Rocking a monochromatic look will tone down the look-at-me factor of this fashion-forward style move. Stick with neutral hues for a streamlined and sophisticated aesthetic.
2. Swap out traditional socks for fishnets. Think outside the white cotton box and slip into your favorite pair of steppers in a set of cheeky fishnet ankle socks. A little bit sultry and a whole lot of chic, they’ll turn up the heat on everything from flouncy A-line frocks to distressed denim in a snap.
View this post on InstagramGame on in yellow. Details from New York Fashion Week #nyfw #streetstyle
A post shared by Lee Oliveira (@leeoliveira) on
3. Colorcoordinate.Understated this look is not, but if turning heads is on your to-do list, employing this show-stopping style tactic is a must. Tailor your footwear and socks to coordinate with your outfit, choosing complementary colors that are guaranteed to produce a wow effect.
View this post on Instagram#danielbrunograndl www.theurbanspotter.com @roosabels #roosabels #paris #2016 #theurbanspotter
A post shared by Daniel Bruno Grandl (@theurbanspotter) on
4. Let ’em peek out of statement boots. For a cutting-edge take on a prepster chic, team a pair of mid-calf socks with bold and bright ankle boots. Let your socks poke up above the boot line for a bit of color-block action.
5. Try an athleisure-approved look. Take the socks-and-shoes thing down an athletic path by wearing classic cotton ankle socks with high-octane athletic shoes (the brighter, the better). For max sports chic perfection, round out the look with a graphic A-line skirt, classic tee and zip-up knit.
6. Fuzzy socks are fair game. Shimmery, classic cotton and fishnet stockings are a given. But those fuzzy numbers you reserve for Netflix marathons and snoozy Saturday mornings? They’re prime contenders for your It-girl socks-and-shoes routine. Inject your ensemble with an element of cool contrast by teaming sleek separates with Birkenstock-inspired steppers and your coziest pair of socks.
View this post on InstagramOctober Issue 🔮 @elleuk @lauretta_suter @marceledalcortivo
A post shared by • D O N N A W A L L A C E • (@itsdwallace) on
7. Go full throttle: This just might be our favorite look yet. Expect to turn heads when you take this Insta-worthy ensemble to the streets. Start with a pastel monochromatic getup that is equal parts coy and cutting edge (modern silhouettes are essential), then proceed to pair with contrasting mid-calf socks and striking patterned shoes. Whether you test drive the look at the office or on an upcoming GNO, one thing’s for sure — you’ll look straight-up flawless.
View this post on InstagramModel Mae Mei Lapres at Paris Fashion Week #PFW. Photo by @styledumonde
A post shared by New York Times Fashion & Style (@nytimesfashion) on
8. Load on the layers. Playing the layering game just got a whole lot more interesting. Toss on a pair of high-waisted culottes and slip knee-high socks on underneath to add dimension to an edgy cool-weather ensemble. Tap into your inner tomgirl with polished lace-up Oxfords or block-heel loafers.
View this post on Instagram#danielbrunograndl www.theurbanspotter.com #sydney #mbfwa #resort17 #theurbanspotter
A post shared by Daniel Bruno Grandl (@theurbanspotter) on
9. Pump it up. Before you put the brakes on this unexpected trend, take a gander at this foolproof ensemble. The tried and true color combination and minimalist appeal make these shimmery white socks feel downright fierce.
View this post on InstagramA post shared by Jeff Thibodeau (@jeffthibodeauco) on
10. Pair ’em with platforms. Have a mini dress on hand that reads flirtatious and feminine? Turn up the tough-girl flair with a high sock and strappy sandal combo. Opt for all black to keep the frill-factor in check, then round out the look with a leather jacket and minimalist baubles.
11. Wear ’em anywhere. This runway-approved look isn’t just reserved for the FROW. As Anna Sui proved in her spring/summer ’17 show, the effortless addition can hold it down with just about every piece in your closet. A versatile trend everyone can try? We’re so down.
Follow us on Pinterest for more style inspo!
