You'd be forgiven for thinking that 2017 was basically a decade ago. Thanks to the past 18 months, it's felt like time has slowed, so what happened "before" feels like a lifetime ago. This means that trends returning from a mere four years ago seem like they're from ages ago. The trend I'm thinking about today is the sock-boot trend. If you think back to 2017, you'll remember that Balenciaga's floral version was all over fashion week on the feet of various influencers. As a result, high-street brands copied the style, and the trend exploded.
Then, it died down. We became obsessed with combat lace-up styles, cowboys, and let us not forget the ever-popular track- and chunky-sole boots. However, I'm here to tell you that I've spotted a few people wearing sock boots again thanks to fashion week. Whether they're stiletto heels (as seen on Vogue Australia editor Christine Centenera) or fluorescent green, there are myriad ways to wear the boot style.
Scroll below to see how to wear the trend this season, and then keep going to see 2017's take on it. Plus, shop our edit of the best sock boots right now.
2021
2017
Shop Our Sock-Boot Edit
This piece was published at an earlier date and has since been updated. Next up, the biggest boot trends for 2021.
-
Not Black, Not Brown: The 2026 Boot Color Trend That Makes Every Outfit ElegantJust like that.
-
Winter's Just Around the Corner—13 Standout Zara Finds I Predict Will Sell Out Before the End of the MonthAffordable funnel-neck jackets, argyle knits, and rich-looking flats inside.
-
My Stylish 56-Year-Old Mom Is a Picky Shopper—31 Chic Under-$100 Nordstrom Finds She Approves OfFunnel-neck coats, Fair Isle knits, and Levi's jeans inside.
-
If Chic Jeans-and-Boots Outfits Are the Goal, Don't Miss These Standout Picks From Zara, Madewell, and NordstromBring on a stylish fall-and-winter closet.
-
My Honest Take on the Winter It Boots Every Fashion Person Is Talking AboutFrom Khaite to Free People.
-
Just so You Know, Zara Already Has All the Best Shoes for Winter 2025Shop before they sell out.
-
Of All Her Outfits, *This* Hailey Bieber Look Is Stuck in My BrainAnd I will be re-creating it.
-
Cool Sneakers, Flats, and Boots Are the Vibe—These 36 Styles Are Heavily Discounted for Cyber MondayEverything from Khaite to Ref to Adidas is at least 25% off.
