For decades, fashion enthusiasts have debated whether or not socks with sandals make a stylish look. Some argue that socks and sandals should never be combined since the pairing is widely considered to be a fashion faux pas. But modern fashion trends have changed, and the line between what is fashionable and what is not has become blurred. Is wearing socks with sandals a fashion faux pas, or could it be an acceptable style choice? In this article, we’ll explore the history of socks and sandals and take a closer look at whether the pairing is a style statement or sartorial sin.
The History of Wearing Socks with Sandals
The practice of wearing socks with sandals has been around since ancient times. Evidence of this style can be found in tomb murals and carvings dating back to Ancient Greek and Roman times. However, according to experts, it wasn’t until the 1940s that wearing socks and sandals became a more accepted look among fashionable people.
The sudden surge in popularity for the look was attributed to the Italian movie icon Vittorio De Sica. He famously donned the combo on-screen in the film Ladri Di Biciclette (Bicycle Thieves). This inspired other Italian actors to do the same, and by the 1950s and 60s, wearing socks and sandals was considered a mainstream look in Italy.
In America, the combination made its debut in the hippie era of the late 1960s. Led by trendsetters like Steve Jobs and Jerry Garcia, the look quickly spread to mainstream America and became a familiar sight on the streets. It was considered to be a more comfortable and practical option than going barefoot during the hot summer months.
Pros and Cons of Wearing Socks with Sandals
The pros of wearing socks with sandals are clear. The combination is comfortable and practical, offering extra cushioning and protection against hot surfaces. For people who suffer from plantar fasciitis, wearing socks with sandals increases comfort and reduces strain on the feet.
The cons of wearing socks with sandals are just as abundant. For some, this combination evokes images of dads on vacation or unkempt teenagers. While society has become more accepting of the look in recent years, there are still those who view this pairing as a fashion faux pas. It can also be difficult to find a good color combination for your socks and sandals, as some colors simply do not match up.
How to Wear Socks with Sandals in a Stylish Way
It’s possible to make your socks and sandals look stylish, but it takes some trial and error. First, pick out an appropriate sandal. Look for something that isn’t too bulky but still has good support. Next, pick out a coordinating pair of socks that don’t overwhelm your feet or ankles. Athletic or crew length socks are generally your best bet. Finally, choose vibrant colors like yellow, orange, blue, or green that contrast with both your socks and sandals for a bold and eye-catching look.
Choosing the Right Color Combination for Socks and Sandals
The key to pulling off the socks and sandals look is choosing the right color combination. A good rule of thumb is to pick a color for your socks that contrasts with your sandal’s color. For example, if you’re wearing black sandals, try a bright orange pair of socks. Brown sandals will go great with navy blue socks, while grey and white pairs of sandals can be perfectly complemented by bright yellow socks.
Are There Any Rules for Wearing Socks with Sandals?
While there are no strict rules for wearing socks with sandals, it’s best to avoid knee-high socks since they can be too bulky or make your outfit look overly casual. You also want to avoid wearing socks that are too plain or boring since they tend to clash with most sandals. Lastly, be sure to keep your ankles exposed for a more airy look.
Tips for Making the Look Work
To make sure your socks and sandals look stylish, try pairing them with other items in your wardrobe like shorts or skirts. Contrasting textures, such as cotton or wool socks with leather sandals, can also add a unique touch to the outfit. Wear brighter colors on the bottom half of your body like yellow or pink to give your feet even more attention.
Alternatives to Wearing Socks with Sandals
If you’re still not sure if you want to go all-in on the whole sock and sandal trend, there are other options you can explore. You can wear strappy sandals or gladiator-style sandals that provide a more breathable option in the warmer months. There are also plenty of low-top sock designs like ankle-length trainer socks that offer superior cushioning and comfort compared to going barefoot.
Common Misconceptions About Wearing Socks with Sandals
Many people think that wearing socks with sandals is only appropriate for kids or older adults. But this isn’t true! Wearing socks with sandals—when done properly—can be chic and modern. As long as you pick out the right color combinations and stick to supportive yet comfortable styles, you can easily pull off this look while still maintaining an adult aesthetic.
Celebrities Who Have Been Spotted Rocking the Look
From Hollywood stars to music icons, plenty of famous people have embraced this unlikely combination over the past few years. Rihanna was seen rocking ankle-length socks with bright yellow sandals at an event in 2017, while Kanye West has been spotted at numerous events wearing black crew socks under some classic brown leather sandals. Supermodel Gigi Hadid has also been seen wearing ankle-length white socks with Nike slides several times in the past few years.
Wearing socks with sandals may not be for everyone. It may evoke images of dads on vacation or unkempt teenagers, but it doesn’t mean there isn’t a place for this style in modern fashion. As long as you choose the right color combinations and select supportive yet comfortable styles, you’re sure to make a stylish statement when wearing socks with sandals.
