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:
Be quick! These are on their way to selling out.
These also come in three other colours.
These super-sleek flat boots will easily polish up your daily looks.
Such a good shade of chocolate brown.
These come in both leather and suede styles.
I'd wear these with a roomy knitted maxi dress.
A very directional take.
Go for a square-toe for something different.
I think sock boots will be one of the season's key footwear trends.
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Spotted at JFK Airport: The Only Boot Trend TSA Won't Give You Side-Eye for WearingComfortable, stylish, and most importantly, functional.
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The Chanel-Inspired Flats Trend That Looks Elevated, Luxe, and Instantly PolishedJust ask Alexa Chung.
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Move Over, Mesh Flats—Your Successor Is Hot on Your HeelsIt's trailing close behind.
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All the It Girls and Celebs Are Shelving White Sneakers for These 6 ColorsSpring's most comfortable trends.
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Amal Clooney's Croc-Embossed Thigh-High Boots Are About to Cause a StirGuaranteed.
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The $25 H&M and $50 Zara Flats I'm Buying Because This Shoe Trend Is Suddenly EverywhereIt's good enough to buy in multiples.
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The Boot Trend Everyone With Expensive Taste Is Styling Instead of Flats or HeelsWe're here for it.
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Suddenly, Every Classy Fashion Person in Paris Is Wearing This Elegant Heeled-Shoe TrendA fresh take on classic Mary Janes.
