After seasons dominated by ballet flats, loafers and low-profile trainers, 2026 is set to mark the return of heels. And according to New York’s style set, there’s a chic new way to style them right now.

Stepping out for a Fendi event in New York this week, actor Amelie Zilber elevated her pencil skirt and classic black heels with a sleek pair of semi-sheer black socks.

Slightly unexpected, heels and socks have long divided opinion, conjuring up everything from school-uniform nostalgia to '80s-inspired eccentricity. But in practice, the look feels surprisingly modern. The sheer texture softened the sharpness of the black heels whilst adding subtle dimension and contrast to an otherwise pared-back ensemble.

Shifting the mood of her look, without them, the pencil skirt-and-heels pairing could have leaned overly polished or even a little corporate. With them, the look took on a more intellectual, fashion-forward energy. There was almost a librarian-esque quality to it, but in the very best way.

It’s also exactly the kind of styling move fashion people gravitate towards because it requires very little effort yet makes an outfit feel much more considered. In the same way white socks elevate loafers, a sheer sock can also give classic heels a new lease of life.

Newly inspired, scroll on to shop my edit of the best heels to wear with socks below.

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There are very few people I look at and think, "Yes, absolutely everything you wear is a yes." French women, however, never miss. Lately, my social feeds have been quietly (and then not so quietly) taken over by one particular styling trick the chicest French women are backing right now: brightly coloured socks. I've seen red socks with ballet flats, green socks peeking out of chunky loafers, and (possibly my favourite pairing) a pair of cobalt-blue socks worn with the simplest brown shoes that honestly stopped me mid-scroll. Claire Most pulled it off so effortlessly that I immediately wanted to copy her entire outfit, right down to the socks. It feels playful, cool and just a little unexpected, which is exactly why it works.

What I love most about the coloured-sock trend is how low-commitment it is. This isn't about going full dopamine dressing; socks are perhaps the most basic of basics, something we all already own, which makes them the perfect way to dip a toe (pun intended) into some colour without feeling like you're wearing a costume. A flash of colour at the ankle does all the work, especially when the rest of your outfit is classic: jeans, flats and a good coat. French influencers are proving that you don't need to make a head-to-toe statement to show off your style. Sometimes it's just one small detail that makes an outfit feel current.

And the colours just keep coming. In the past week alone, I've clocked burgundy, pistachio green, butter yellow and more shades of blue than I can count, which has me genuinely excited for spring. As we move into lighter layers and shorter hemlines, this shoe-and-sock combo is set to be a huge player.

Below are the socks I've already bookmarked, inspired by the French women doing it best.

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Socks, specifically knee-high socks, were once seen as purely functional. Hidden underneath tall boots, desperately trying not to be seen under hems or in compression varieties that you’d only wear on a flight, they were used as functional layers rather than stylish accessories.

Yet, as the seasons change, so does the trend cycle, and for autumn 2025, knee-high socks are making a play for the most sought-after accessory of the season. Who’d have thought?

With preppy-core (a trend that blends aspirational upper-class style and timeless yet functional pieces) infiltrating the fashion scene for autumn/winter 2025, we're seeing the aesthetic's classic pieces gaining virality. From flat-soled loafers and brogues to argyle jumpers and pleated miniskirts, just one glance outside right now can feel like stepping onto the set of the OG Gossip Girl or Cher’s and Dion's high school in Clueless.

So, it makes sense that socks of the knee-high variety are the next preppy item to take the spotlight. We’ve seen every iteration of sock get the fashion-person seal of approval so far this year; from pops of colours to bold prints and lace detailing, the stylish dressers have been determined to prove socks are more than just functional and can, in fact, make an outfit.

Fashion person Emma Chamberlain wears grey knee-high socks and a full Miu Miu outfit whilst attending the Miu Miu Miutine launch in New York.

But fashion people aren't the only ones embracing knee-high socks. From the Lyst Index's hottest brand of the year, Miu Miu, whose very essence oozes a cool preppy core, to Fendi resort spring/summer 2023 and Conner Ives's recent S/S 26 show, knee-high socks of all iterations have been all over the runways of late, too.

When it comes to styling them, we’re truly spoilt for choice. From long lace styles that add a chic Parisian edge to trendy mesh knee-highs that feel right on the money in 2025, there are so many options to choose from. And, with the most fashionable people flooding my socials with a plethora of enviable knee-high-sock outfits, I’ve rounded up five worth re-creating this autumn. Scroll to discover them.

5 Knee-High-Sock Outfit Ideas for Autumn 2025:

1. Loose Blazer + Bermuda Shorts + Knee-High Socks

Style Notes: In my opinion, the trendiest knee-high sock outfits in 2025 feature those of the sheer variety. Once saved for the boudoir, in 2025, fashion people are turning to sheer knee-highs for the playful visual interest and the sleek leg-lengthening effect they offer. Sure, a simple white or black sock would’ve done the trick, but Pauline Leroy's simple blazer and Bermuda shorts feel far more considered with a sheer finish.

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2. Barn Jacket + Cable-Knit Set + Knee-High Socks

Style Notes: Cable-knit knee-high socks are built to be functional, keeping your toes toasty on long countryside walks and days when the chill sets in. For 2025 autumn styling, match your knee-highs to your ensemble and be sure to let your socks peek through for a laid-back look.

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3. Studded Jacket + Pleated Skirt + Knee-High Socks

Style Notes: 2025 has undeniably been the year of lace. From delicate lace hems in the summer, take the trend into autumn with a lace knee-high sock. Adding a cool, romantic edge, these are the perfect way to add visual interest in a way in keeping with your outfit.

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4. Pinafore Dress + Riding Boots + Knee-High Socks

Style Notes: Knitted knee-highs don't only have to offset a countryside outfit. In a quintessentially French look, Emmanuelle layers hers under riding boots, finished with a lace blouse and pinafore dress for a look which is as playful as it is practical.

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5. Graphic Tee + Ballet Flats + Knee-High Tights

Style Notes: The best thing about knee-high socks is that, however eccentric the ensemble, they consistently play well. Take Michelle Li’s look; a playful array of bold colours and contrasting colours, yet her black lace knee-high tights pull it all together with ease.

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It won't come as a shock to hear that flat shoes are trending. If you’ve been reading Who What Wear for any length of time, you’ll know we’ve long championed the joys of no-heels fashion. Whether it's Mary Janes, loafers, ballet flats or the increasingly popular ballet trainer, if it keeps our feet firmly and comfortably on the ground, we’re fully on board.

Having explored the many shapes and styles of this enduring shoe category, I thought I’d covered every angle. That was until Aimee Lou Wood reminded me of a simple styling trick that makes even the most classic flats feel fresh and cool.

Rather than opting for bare ankles or wintry tights, Wood stepped out in not one, but two different pairs of black flat shoes this week, each styled with a bright-white pair of socks. First came a sleek pair of suede Mary Janes, followed closely by some glossy leather loafers, both brought to life with the subtle yet striking addition of some ankle socks.

Keeping her outfits streamlined and considered, Wood stuck to a minimal colour palette, building her looks around wardrobe staples like structured leather jackets and timeless straight-leg jeans. But it was the socks—layered neatly beneath her black flats—that added a sense of contrast, femininity and texture. That unmistakable clean finish that only white can deliver elevated her simple styling to something altogether more directional.

While Wood’s looks brought this clever combo back to the forefront of my mind, it’s actually a styling trick I’ve been spotting across London lately. As the city transitions from boots to lighter spring layers, the white sock-and-flat-shoe pairing has quietly become a go-to for those in the know.

Smart yet unfussy, polished but relaxed—this two-step formula encapsulates the easy elegance of London style right now. Scroll on to see how Londoners are styling the trend right now, then shop our edit of the best flat shoes and white socks below.

DISCOVER HOW LONDONERS ARE WEARING WHITE SOCKS AND BLACK SHOES:

Style Notes: The easiest way to make a leggings outfit feel impossible chic, tall white socks and glossy leather loafers will give your look a pretty finish and a smart silhouette.

Style Notes: There's something about the addition of white socks that makes black flats feel so much more elvated. When paired with smart staples like pencil skirts and pinstripes, you can easy style your flats into the evening.

Style Notes: Who What Wear's assistant social media editor Annie Wheatland Clinch has long been a fan of this classic sock + flat shoe combination—she even took it out for a spin during London Fashion Week earlier this year.

Style Notes: Before high-summer hits, ensure you're keeping adequately warm by layering your look with a pair of fresh white socks.

Style Notes: While white socks elevated Mary Janes and ballet flats, I happen to think they look particularly chic with simple, glossy loafers.

SHOP OUT EDIT OF WHITE SOCKS AND BLACK SHOES.

Every now and again I come across a trend that makes me question how I've gone this long without it. It's often the most subtle sorts that make me feel this way. Low-key, but highly impactful, these thoughtful accessories seem to reverberate through my wardrobe, enlivening other pieces that had felt stale until they met. Just recently I came across a growing accessory trend that falls firmly into this camp—and I can't help but share.

Small but mighty, I can't stop styling the sheer socks trend. Now, here me out, I know that socks aren't deemed an interesting accessory, but these high-fashion pairs might make you reconsider. Crafted from a semi-sheer, tights fabrication, these socks have a transparent finish that makes them feel so much more elegant than their opaque counterparts.

A chic transitional item, sheer socks were practically designed for those in-between days when you're done with wearing tights, but it's not yet warm enough to embrace bare legs. Extending a little higher up the legs than your typical cotton pairs, I've seen so many chic knee-high styles work their way into fashion circles this season.

I'm not the only one who has noticed the trend. Hosiery brand Swedish Stockings has noticed that sales of their sheer socks have increased by 15% since January, while Google Trends shows that "sheer knee-high socks" has become a breakout search term over the past month.

Owing to the sleek fabrication, these elegant socks have a sexy energy that sees them pair particularly well with pencil skirts and flowing styles, but I've also seen the trend look chic with knee-length shorts or styled underneath jeans and trousers. Shoe-wise, your options are open. While this trend looks impossibly chic when worn with a simple pointed-toe heel, I've also seen fashion people style them with simple ballet flats, to great effect.

While these souped-up socks are available in a range of colours and lengths, I can't help but fawn over the simple elegance of black knee-high styles. However, if you're looking for a playful way to revive your wardrobe, then a bright white or burgundy pair might be just the ticket.

What's more, is that this is one of the most affordable trends I've come across for a while. With prices starting as low as £2.50, I'm more than ready to commit to the trend. If you are too, read on to discover our edit of the best sheer socks below.

SHOP SHEER SOCKS:

In my opinion, it’s the accessories that often make the biggest impact on an outfit.

Picture a minimalist look elevated by a chunky bangle; effortlessly chic, right? Or a simple jeans-and-tee ensemble transformed by a studded belt—sign me up! And don’t even get me started on the magic of a sumptuous cashmere scarf draped over a wool coat—pure style perfection.

Indeed, after years in the fashion industry, I'm certain that thoughtful additions such as these have the ability to elevate a look the most. Amongst them, there’s one add-on that stands out for its versatility and underrated charm: socks. Yes, socks. Simple but mighty, I believe this unsung accessory hero has the power to completely transform an outfit, and I’m always looking for excuses to incorporate them into my wardrobe.

With winter in full swing and temperatures dropping, the appeal of wearing socks has never been greater. That said, not every shoe lends itself to a sock pairing—some combinations work seamlessly, whilst others can feel a bit off. To help spark some styling inspiration, I’ve put together an edit of the six best shoe trends that always look chic with socks.

From sleek loafers to pointed-toe heels, these pairings prove that practicality and style can go hand in hand. Read on to discover the six shoe styles that look extra chic with socks.

SIX SHOE TRENDS THAT ALWAYS LOOK GOOD WITH SOCKS

1. BALLET FLATS

Style Notes: Since the ballet flats revival swept the fashion scene last year, I’ve barely gone a week without wearing a pair. Yes, even in winter, you won’t catch me parting with my favourite ballet flats. My secret to making them winter-appropriate? Socks, of course. Adding a layer of texture and a flash of brightness, socks not only keep my feet cosy but also bring a fresh contrast to the dark leather of my flats. In fact, this pairing has become one of my favourite ways to style them, even throughout the warmer months.

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2. LOAFERS

Style Notes: When I want to give my outfits a polished edge, I always reach for loafers and socks. Neat and elegant, this classic pairing strikes the perfect balance between smart and wearable. In fact, I’d argue that loafers look even better with socks than without.

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3. TRAINERS

Style Notes: A few years ago, invisible or trainer socks were the go-to choice for wearing with trainers. But this season, socks have become just as important as the sneakers themselves. Long, calf-length styles are trending right now, offering a fresh and modern update. Try pairing crisp white socks with your well-loved trainers to give them an instant update.

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4. KNEE-HIGH BOOTS

Style Notes: Of course, I’d always recommend pairing socks with knee-high boots—going without would undoubtedly make for an uncomfortable day. However, instead of letting the socks stay hidden, I’ve recently started styling my knee-high boots with even longer socks peeking out over the top. This simple addition adds a subtle layer of texture and dimension, elevating the overall look.

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5. POINTED-TOE HEELS

Style Notes: Whilst a pointed-toe heel might not be the first shoe that springs to mind when you think about socks, I'm here to argue that it definitely should be. Making your favourite heels feel a little less serious, this playful pairing ensures a decidedly chic stride.

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6. LACE-UP SHOES

Style Notes: Lace-up shoes are one of my favourite new footwear trends from the past few months, and I think they look chicest when styled with crisp white socks. To complete the look, pair with casual jeans or shorts, otherwise style with tailored trousers for an ultra-sleek silhouette.

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When it feels like the classic items in my wardrobe have taken over and my outfits are getting a bit predictable, a little injection of quirky styling is usually the fix. It's never anything too dramatic, just something small and unexpected that effs up a perfectly fine look—like a way-too-fancy vintage brooch, a belt that feels a bit wrong, maybe an off-season handbag that doesn't quite make sense.

This kind of effortless quirk is synonymous with Gen Z styling, which I love for all the irony and messy individuality it brings to fashion that can feel dominated by wardrobe staples and investment-worthy neutrals. It's the kind of fun, covetable styling I associate with writer and stylist Michelle Li, who may have just missed out on technically being Gen Z, but whose delightfully unpredictable sense of style defines the genre. As I dove into her feed for some autumn footwear inspiration, I couldn't help but notice the easy styling trick she uses to layer in a tiny bit of extra personality to her looks. Here's Li wearing 10 of this season's most on-trend shoe styles, that she's proving look even better with socks.

T-Bars

T-bar styles are popping up all over the place this autumn, with a preppy school-uniform vibe that lends itself perfectly to being paired with socks. From Tory Burch and Reformation's easy-to-wear flats to Sézane's mock croc heels, these are perfect if you're a Mary Jane devotee who's looking for what's next.

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Technical Sneakers

Ultra-sporty and technical sneakers are here to add a little weirdness to our outfits, particularly bright neon pairs that seem designed with a potential search and rescue operation in mind. For something a little more subtle but with the same energy, look for more subdued colours with mixed textures, particularly Gortex and mesh. Pair them with dress socks to keep things quirky.

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Kitten-Heeled Pumps

I love a sticky trend. Case in point? Kitten-heeled pumps, which aren't going anywhere. Creamy white styles are carrying over from summer, classic black pairs remain worthy of your investment, and this particularly on-trend burgundy option from Nine West gets bonus points for its suede-like finish.

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Classic Ballet Flats

Classic black ballet flats are somehow still managing to be both a wardrobe staple and an autumn trend. Keep them feeling fresh by taking a cue from Li and mixing textures, juxtaposing your go-to pair with socks that are just a little fluffier and chunkier than you'd expect.

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Retro Sneakers

Low-rise sneakers with a vintage vibe continue to dominate the space below the ankles of fashion people everywhere. A special mention to the brighter hues that fashion people are loving, which feel extra punchy when paired with fresh white socks. Ditch those no-show socks and go for something fun that feels intentional.

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Loafers

As an aging millennial, I'd say that loafers and socks go together like Summer and Seth: a little bit wrong, but oh-so-right. Lean into white socks with black loafers for some extra '90s Julia Roberts energy.

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Square-Toe Slingbacks

Slingbacks have had a big year, and I'm personally thrilled to see some more square-toe styles are here to give our toes a little break. In terms of adding socks, I'll just say that is styling perhaps better suited to nights when you're getting a car right to dinner versus taking the subway. Try it out around the house first.

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Black Sneakers

Black sneakers are having a little moment. I love the sporty style juxtaposed with Michelle Li's sheer silver skirt. The grey socks create a tonal look with a mix of textures.

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Clogs

Whether you're wearing them out to the letterbox while working from home or to dinner on a Friday night, clogs deserve a little place in your autumn wardrobe. Flat styles with socks will scratch that normcore itch, while heeled mules with sheer stockings feel very downtown cool.

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Navigating the change in seasons from a fashion point of view requires a little creativity. No longer can you fall back on your trusted summer favourites, nor can you head straight towards autumn staples, as this in-between weather requires a specific combination of the two. As fashion writers, we take this time of year very seriously, experimenting with all sorts of pieces to find those that stand up to these particular weather demands. Naturally, you’ll find us in jeans most days of the week, but we’re also reaching for over-shirts, lightweight jackets and most frequently, socks and loafers.

And we're not the only ones who have caught the bug. Celebrities have already been wearing their loafers with socks all summer long, to balance out short dresses or inject a smarter flair into their casual outfits.

Hailey Bieber gave us a lesson in trans-seasonal styling when she assembled the perfect in-between look. Styling mini with maxi, she wore a camel mini skirt layered underneath a tonal, floor-length coat. The cherry on top? Her perfect accessories, which comprised sleek sunglasses and chunky loafers for a look that's lived on our mood board since we first saw it earlier this year. 

In a warm-weather take, Gigi Hadid caught our attention in early August with her summer-ready loafers-and-socks outfit. Styling the chunky Miu Miu shoes with a chic LBD, Hadid proved the versatility of a pair of classic black loafers.

Gigi Hadid wore a Miu Miu mini dress and loafers for an event in Malibu.

Now moving closer and closer into autumn, we're keen to throw on a few light layers. Style icon Zoe Kravitz, layered an over-sized blue cotton shirt on-top of a trusty white tee. Sharpening up the casual shape, Kravitz paired her look with chic brown loafers and fresh white socks.

Though I'd rather hang on to summer for a little longer, the prospect of layering up and slipping into chunky loafers does help to convince me that it might be time to embrace a change in seasons. Add in a £4 pair of Uniqlo socks, and you have a celebrity-approved shoe hack that appears to make every outfit that little bit chicer.

Keep scrolling to shop some of our favourite classic loafers to pair with socks. 

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Next Up: 6 Ways Fashion People Are Wearing Last Year's Loafers Now

In the world of fashion, it's fair to say that socks are firmly at the bottom of its glamorous hierarchy. And that's not, of course, to underestimate their importance; it's just that they are the sort of staple that most people don't derive a great deal of pleasure from buying.

Personally, I am perennially known in my household as the "sock stealer," as I can never bring myself to spend precious pounds on a new pair that could be going towards something more exciting. So, obviously, to his on-going consternation, I just wear my husbands' socks. That was, however, until I started to work from home, and I found humble socks to be at the front and centre of my wardrobe priority list.

I realise talking about socks won't do anything at all to tackle the current crisis, but you know what? Sometimes, it can be the smallest things that can make all the difference in our day-to-day lives. Honestly, I never thought a pair of cosy knitted socks could personally bring me so much comfort. And I've never seen so many pictures of socks on my Instagram feed, from cosy cashmere styles to look-at-me mood-boosters. 

So if you're looking for a bit of sock-based escapism, scroll down to see the styles we're loving right now. Your feet will thank you.

The Colourful Socks

The Basic Socks

The Statement Socks

The Cashmere Socks

The Cosy Unisex Socks

Next: I've Found the Chicest Sustainable Shopping Picks, All for Under £150

Socks and sandals aren't really one of those combos you can quietly dip your toe into. You're either committing to it or you're not—you can't just wear it a bit like a sheer sleeve on a blouse or a touch of leopard print on a bag. It's quite the divisive dressing choice. I happen to wear this combination often, most frequently a pair of Alexa Chung x JuJu's Embellished Jelly sandals and a ribbed-knit sock, and my friends hate it because they say it looks "ugly" and like I've "just thrown on the first shoes at the front door." I have to insist that it really is fashion, despite the eye rolls I get in return.

Delve into the history of the look, and it turns out this combination is somewhat of a classic: Socks and sandals were first debuted by the Romans. That makes the trend something close to over 2000 years old. While dressing like a Roman doesn't sound too bad, the real negative connotations come from elsewhere. It's associated with dads and terribly dressed tourists and hikers. But the reality now is that all those previously mocked groups are being emulated on the runways, in street style and even by the A-list—but particularly when it comes to socks and sandals.

Given that Birkenstocks are having a moment (having fashionable collaborations with Manolo Blahnik and Proenza Schouler, as well as a sell-out style helps), the "ugly" sandal is the shoe of the summer, and adding socks makes sense to take it into autumn. 

The only question that remains is knowing how to do this without looking like it's something you unintentionally put on as you dashed out to Tescos. My own take is to clash your sandals with your socks as much as possible—whether that's pink socks with black chunky sandals or gold mesh socks with metallic Velcro sandals. Other fashion editors opt for a similar take on this: The more jarring the combination, the better, so as to prove this is a real style statement. To see what I mean, I suggest you keep scrolling to see how everyone from influencers to the street style circuit is wearing theirs. Then keep going to shop my favourite socks-and-sandals pairings.

How the Fashion Set Styles Socks and Sandals

Style Notes: It's true; a tie-dye sock and a rubber sandal shouldn't make sense, but somehow with a pink outfit, they just do. 

Style Notes: Helena proves that the trend can work with any sandal, including Fabrizio Viti's shearling-and-leather slides. 

Style Notes: Erica manages to tick off three trends in one outfit: the Breton knit, the wide-leg trouser and, of course, the socks-and-'stocks pairing. 

Style Notes: A guest attending London Fashion Week wears a pair of chunky black sandals with tonal pink-and-white tie-dye. 

Style Notes: Mauve socks and brown sandals is a chic combination, especially with a little heel. 

Style Notes: Make chunky white sandals stand out with a pair of black socks. It's the cool way to make a formal dress a little more casual. 

Style Notes: Perhaps my favourite way to do it, add a fine-knit sock to a strappy party sandal. Not only does it look good, but it will save your feet from aching too. 

Socks-and-Sandals Combinations to Shop

#1: Party Sandals + Minimal Socks

#2: Logo Mania

#3: Sporty Sandals + Tie-Dye Socks

#4: Embellished Sandals + Black Socks

#5: Shearling Sandals + Comfy Socks

#6: Velvet Platforms + Sheer Socks

#7: Colour-Block Sandals + Socks

#8: Printed Wedges + Nude Socks

Up next, the biggest autumn/winter 2019 trends you need to know.

Looking for a way to refresh your go-to sneakers? We recommend you try sheer socks. While sporty cotton styles may be your day-to-day choice, swapping them out for something a little more fashion-forward is an easy way to make them appropriate for activities outside of the gym. It's a trick street style trendsetters use when they want to go for something a little less athleisure-focused but wear comfy sneakers.

From slouchy netted styles to ones with delicate details, the sheer sock options on the market run the gamut. And the best part is that you can try this trick out for as little as £4. So if you're ready to update your sneaker styling this year, we recommending giving this pretty trend a try. They may not keep our feet warm, but our ankles have never looked so good.

There have been many clear fashion moments of 2017, and as is often the case thanks to friendlier price points, many of them have revolved around accessories: Straw basket, belt bags, nerdy specs, over-the-knee boots and corset belts have all been key. But none have been quite as ubiquitous and unyielding as the stream of socks we've witnessed. The humble knitted foot cover—so practical; so un-fun—has been elevated, notching up catwalk sashays, celebrity sightings, street style photographs and increasing price tags throughout the year. They've been given makeovers from every sector of the fashion industry: high-fashion brands such as Gucci, Vetements and Prada haven't left them alone for seasons now, while Rihanna's Fenty Puma line and other leading sportswear labels have continued to see their logoed tube socks flying out of stores and onto the feet of cool girls the globe over.

Clockwise from top left: GVGV; Miu Miu; Prada; Gucci

This year, two particular companies in the hosiery industry have been supported by huge financial investments. Stance—the American brand that makes socks piquing the interest of Rihanna (she has produced a collab with Stance), the skateboarding community and Justin Trudeau alike—received over $100 million in funding from venture capitalists and some rather starry names such as Jay-Z. Then there's Heist, a tights label with technology and comfort at the forefront of its reimagined undergarments; Natalie Massanet contributed towards the $2.6 million raise for the London-based business. Bloomberg predicts that the sock industry is the next one to receive the most attention from future investors—it's been relatively ignored until now, and is clearly growing.

Clockwise from top left: Kendall Jenner, Hailey Baldwin, Rihanna, Rita Ora

There's search data to back up the consumer interest. On Pinterest UK, search terms "lace socks," fishnet ankle socks" and "socks and heels" have all increased by over 100% in the past year. Fashion search engine Lyst reports that the average sock price has risen by 10% YOY thanks to luxe brands like Vetements, Rick Owens and Givenchy reimagining the simple tube sock and selling them for £70, £55 and £190 respectively—much more than your average three-pack at M&S. Mother (a denim brand that's expanded into other categories) has barely been able to keep its rather rude slogo tube socks available—16,000 pairs have been sold with over 200 retailers stocking them since they were introduced just over a year ago.

Fishnet ankle socks started to pop up around September in 2016, and have since become quite a normal purchase for fashion girls—ASOS alone has a grand total of 64 different pairs to buy right now. Many of those girls are moving onto sheer socks, a trend that's up 72% this party season according to Pinterest and available for as little as £4 on Etsy.

More elaborate styles have also proven to be great Instagram fodder, and even Radio 4 Woman's Hour (a platform that often doesn't touch fashion topics) was discussing the merits of a sparkly sock when the Christmas festivities kick in: Gucci's sequin socks saw a spike in searches during September's fashion weeks, and we saw KiraKira go into overdrive thanks to further sparkly styles coming in from Marchesa, Ann Demeulemeester, Zara and more.

Most recently, Alessandro Michele introduced another Gucci version: GG-embellished socks rendered in crystals and at a whopping £885, sock superfan Rihanna was the first to snap them up. So with that in mind, why don't you shop our favourite socks below? They're worth a splurge by the looks of things.

Trainers may have humble beginnings as shoes for the tennis courts of the early 20th century, but today, the sneakers have weaseled their way into the hearts and wardrobes of even those who find themselves exercise averse.

Still, a question lingers for those who choose to wear the wardrobe staple: Must you pair them with socks? For some, going without socks is a style statement while for others, sliding into sneakers barefoot feels just plain wrong. But who is right? We consulted a range of experts, trainer designers, podiatrists, and fashion editors to get to the bottom of it.

Read on to read what each expert had to say; then shop socks and sneakers that can (but don't have to) be worn together.

"We are unable to wash our sneakers every day like our socks; therefore, not only can you develop 'smelly' feet from the moisture going into the sneaker directly, but you could be exposing yourself to a fungal infection." — Dr. Deena Horn, podiatrist

"If you are planning on styling your sneakers with flowy dresses and skirts this season, I would recommend forgoing socks. If you like the comfort socks provide, switch out your regular socks for those little no-show, low-cut footie socks that are undetectable once you have your sneaks on." — Erin Sumwalt, fashion director, StyleWatch

"I love the look of a sheer sock peeking out of a sneaker or boot. I'm obsessed with Nicholas Messina and Darner; they each have such gorgeous socks from embroidered, sheer and mesh to hand-painted. I also love a hidden sock entirely. It kind of depends on the look I'm going for. I love to mix feminine socks with tough-looking boots or sneakers." — Elana Zajdman, accessories editor, InStyle

"I think sneakers, especially Vans, are all made to be different, so they can be worn both ways. Socks can provide a minimalistic theme by matching them to the same colour of the shoe or be expressive with a patterned sock to clash with the shoe." — Angie Dita, head of women's footwear design, Vans

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"Socks allow sweat absorption and prevent against micro trauma occurring in our sneakers. The moist, dark, and closed environment in our sneakers can precipitate a fungal infection. Socks provide a protective barrier against micro trauma of toes hitting against the inside of sneakers." — Dr. Sid Sharma, podiatrist

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