Every day, the Stylist team has a morning meeting. We talk about the biggest news stories of the day and the best thing we watched on TV the night before. Sometimes, we even discuss the niche condiments we can’t stop buying (black garlic ketchup, FYI). But, despite the array of issues, big and small, that regularly circle our meetings, few topics kicked off quite as much debate as socks. Sparing you the ins and outs of our complex history with trainer socks, the general feeling was something like: “I just don’t know how to wear them anymore!”

You may have already noticed that socks are a thing. Once, being able to see your socks was a faux pas – so much so that pop socks and shoe liners (the low-rise sock-adjacent accessories that would regularly ping off your feet when worn with ballet flats in the mid-00s) ruled the hosiery department.

But now, look to any fashion insider and their socks will always be visible. Whether it’s a sporty white sock with a few bands of colour poking out of a pair of Adidas Sambas or a delicate sheer spotted pair worn with kitten heels, these unsung accessories are the hidden lynchpin of every great outfit on Instagram.

The spring/summer 2023 catwalks took a firm stance, too. At Cecilie Bahnsen, chunky black socks were pulled up and out of chunky green trainers with matching oversized, off-the-shoulder tulle dresses. Etro married ombre dresses with coordinating fine knit socks stuffed into 70s-style platform mules, while Roksanda opted for pillar box red socks pulled just high enough to meet white tailored trousers. In short, socks are making a statement this season. 

Ready to embrace a new era of socks? Keep reading to find out how fashion’s most stylish do it…

Totally co-ordinated

Whether you pair spotted trousers with polka dot socks or go for head-to-toe stripes in tonal shades, matching your socks to the rest of your outfit is the easiest way to make visible hosiery feel considered.

All white

Pulled up past the ankle and worn with matching ballet flats or chunky trainers, white socks add a sporty feel that can make tailoring feel cooler and floral dresses less overtly feminine. More summery but still as neutral as black, they’re the simplest way to shake things up while remaining firmly in basics territory.

Just a hint

If you’re nervous about revealing too much sock (we lived with trainer socks for a long time, after all), pairing your favourite ankle boots with colourful socks pulled up just higher than the top of the boot can make typically wintry shoes feel spring-appropriate and will help ease you into Visible Sock Life™.

Thought-out textures

Adding contrasting textures is a simple shortcut to making outfits look considered. Whether you pair loose knitted socks with tailoring and silky dresses or wear chunky textures such as summery knits or leather with sheer socks, picking opposing materials will give your look depth.

Images: Getty; courtesy of brands