One of the most common questions asked by people looking to jazz up their summer wardrobe – Can you wear socks with sandals? It seems like a simple enough question. But, for many, this age-old fashion dilemma has been dividing opinion for decades. Can you really get away with merging two items from opposite ends of the fashion spectrum, or will it make you look inadvertently underdressed?
Pros and Cons of Wearing Socks With Sandals
Like most fashion controversies, there are pros and cons to sporting sandals with socks. Wearing socks is a great way to add a little warmth and comfort to an otherwise breezy style, while protecting your feet from the blisters caused by rubbing against the straps of a sandal. On the other hand, some argue that the combination can go against the principle of open-toed footwear by doing away with the stylish simplicity and free-flowing feel. At the end of the day, it’s all about understanding the right times to wear socks and sandals together.
How to Style Socks With Sandals
If you’re keen to try out your own spin on this fashion trend, here are our tips for how to style socks with sandals:
- Choose a pair of sandals with a relaxed vibe, like slip-ons. Avoid ultra-chic gladiator sandals or strappy heeled sandals.
- Keep the socks low-cut. Athleisure socks or ankle-length socks are ideal.
- Create a subtle contrast between your footwear and socks for maximum style points. We love this look with navy sandals and white socks.
- For a more daring look, opt for a bold pattern on your socks, such as stripes or polka dots.
- Wear your favorite pair of shorts over your socks, and roll the cuffs up a few inches to create a natural break between the two.
What Kinds of Socks to Wear With Sandals
As with any fashion trend, the choice of socks can make a big difference when it comes to pulling off this look. If you’re going for a dressy style, avoid pairing your sandals with novelty socks – keep it simple with plain colors or well-chosen prints. Any kind of athleisure sock is always a great choice. For instance, you can never go wrong with a pair of black ankle socks when pairing them with white slip-on sandals.
Celebrities Wearing Socks With Sandals
Celebrities have been embracing this style for years. Supermodel Miranda Kerr raised eyebrows when she stepped out sporting some black ankle socks with her sultry red heels. Other famous faces such as Bella Hadid and Kim Kardashian have also been spotted on the streets wearing their own takes on the trend.
Tips for Pulling Off the Look
Whether you’re going for relaxed and casual or dressed-up and chic, there are some key tips you should bear in mind when wearing sandals with socks:
- Keep your shorts or dress close to the knee to avoid looking too underdressed.
- Ensure your sandals have a flexible sole, which will help to ward off any potential blisters or rubbing caused by too-tight straps.
- Play around with colors and patterns to find a look that suits you. Bright, bold hues can create an eye-catching effect.
- Avoid wearing any jewelry with this style in order to keep the look minimal – over-accessorizing can create a messy finish.
When Not to Wear Socks With Sandals
While there are plenty of occasions when socks and sandals combine to create the perfect ensemble, there are times when they should be avoided altogether. That includes anything involving an official dress code such as weddings or formal events. Wearing an open-toe shoe in an office environment is generally frowned upon, so always bear this in mind for daytime events — keep it for chilled weekends and casual occasions.
Where to Buy Stylish Socks for Sandal-Wearing
When it comes to finding stylish socks for sandal-wearing, you’re spoilt for choice. Online stores such as ASOS, Nike, and Stance offer a fantastic selection of fashionable designs, from basic solid colors to statement-making patterns.
The History of the Fashion Trend
Though the look has gone in and out of style over the years, it seems to have finally reached its peak in recent times. During the 90s, everyone’s favorite chick flick Clueless featured Cher Horowitz sporting her iconic yellow plaid skirt and knee-high socks look. The trend made a big comeback in the early 2000s when celebrities like Gwen Stefani began wearing the style prominently. Nowadays, it’s a must-have wardrobe staple for everyone who wants to make a style statement.
Shopping for the Perfect Pair of Sandals
Nowadays, it’s easier than ever to find the perfect pair of sandals that suit your unique style and comfort needs. Whether you’re looking for dressy slides or sporty flip flops, there’s something out there that has you written all over it! Popular online stores such as Calvin Klein, ASOS, and H&M offer everything from gladiator-style sandals to pool sliders and more.
So, can you wear socks with sandals? The answer is yes — just make sure you wear them right! Don’t be afraid to experiment with colors and patterns, but keep it relaxed and low-key on dressier occasions. With some thoughtful styling and accessorizing tips (and bonuses) in mind, you’ll soon be pulling off this look like a pro!
