The Sock-Boot Trend Is Suddenly Back for 2025 (and Millennials Are Thrilled)

published 4 January 2025

The arrival of any new year inevitably brings a wave of reflection. But this time, instead of pondering personal growth or life lessons, my thoughts are decidedly style-related.

Of course, I can look to social media for inspiration on this subject, but I also find Google an unrivalled source for scoping out what's currently trending. And this week, after some data digging, I found that searches on the platform for a footwear style from the mid-2010s were up a huge 300% weekly. And what shoe might that be? Why, the millennial-favourite sock boot! In my opinion, no winter shoe rivals the sleekness of a sock boot. Clinging snugly to the ankle and ascending gracefully up the calf, its smooth silhouette delivers a chic and polished finish that traditional winter boots can’t match.

A nostalgic nod to those bygone days, sock boots were a non-negotiable for many millennials at the time. Pioneered by brands like Balenciaga and Vetements, these innovative stretch-knit designs reimagined boots as we knew them, offering a minimalist yet edgy alternative to clunkier counterparts. Their streamlined silhouette made them a natural match for the skinny jeans, miniskirts and slouchy jumpers that defined the era’s aesthetic. Before long, the trend trickled down to the high street, becoming an everyday fashion staple and cementing itself as a go-to shoe for the style-conscious twenty-something.

Fast-forward to 2025, and sock boots are making a triumphant comeback—but this time, they’re looking fresher, sleeker and more versatile than ever. Today’s iterations are compelling in a different way, with updated designs that feel thoroughly modern whilst still paying homage to their roots—think angular heels and even flat iterations.

However, the most striking evolution can be found in how they’re being styled; gone are the days of pairing sock boots exclusively with spray-on jeans. Instead, the fashion set is opting for looser silhouettes—think baggy denim, long skirts and wide-leg trousers—making the trend feel entirely new again.

Want to be part of the sock-boot revival? Read on to discover our edit of the best pairs to shop right now.

SHOP OUR EDIT OF THE BEST SOCK BOOTS:

H&M

Napped Sock Boots

Be quick! These are on their way to selling out.

Reformation

Rosina Ankle Boot in Black Stretch Leather

These also come in three other colours.

Le Monde Beryl

Luna Leather Ankle Boots

These super-sleek flat boots will easily polish up your daily looks.

Mango

Squared Toe Leather Ankle Boots

Such a good shade of chocolate brown.

& Other Stories

Stretch-Leather Ankle Boots

These come in both leather and suede styles.

H&M

Calf-High Sock Boots

I'd wear these with a roomy knitted maxi dress.

The Row

Mesh Sock Boots

A very directional take.

By Far

Este Boot Black Leather

Go for a square-toe for something different.

Reformation

Payton Stretch Bootie in Black Stretch Leather

I think sock boots will be one of the season's key footwear trends.

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Natalie Munro is Who What Wear UK’s news writer and has worked in the fashion industry since she graduated with a degree in Journalism from the University of the Arts London. Natalie’s experience in the industry spans journalistic and styling roles that have seen her work for publications including British Vogue, Conde Nast Traveller, Vogue Ukraine, AnOther Magazine and Elle UK.

With an interest in uncovering the latest fashion trends, Natalie takes a leading role in identifying news for Who What Wear UK. Reporting on a daily basis, Natalie focuses on trends on and off the runway, as well as street style and celebrity fashion. Natalie also creates content for Who What Wear’s social channels including TikTok and Instagram on a weekly basis.