For a long time, socks were my least favorite all of garments to purchase: I viewed them as purely a necessity, they were hardly going to be seen or noticed, and I would probably lose half of the pair at some point relatively soon anyway. I was and, still am to an extent, a girl who was happy buying a standard pack of socks at CVS. Ones that would quickly pill, contributed absolutely nothing to my overall outfit, and that I wouldn't be remotely sad about misplacing.
While it might feel like socks fall at the bottom of the pile of importance when it comes to a full ensemble, I've decided that I will never again take a good pair socks for granted. There are plenty of brands committed to making socks out of high quality materials that stand the test of time and stay strong in the face of washing machines, socks that not only serve a function but elevate an overall look, socks that I am very careful about not losing. And Spring/Summer 2026 runways, fashion month street style, and recent red carpet appearances have showed us that socks should be good enough to be seen and to play an important role in an over outfit. On Loewe's runway, for example, clear shoes were worn and colored socks took center stage. On the streets of Paris and Milan, socks were paired with heels and served as a contrast to the overall aesthetic of the outfit. And Miu Miu's embellished socks elevated looks of all kinds. In general, we learned that socks hold power and we should use them wisely.
Now that I've been fed an exorbitant amount of sock inspiration, I am truly never looking back. How could I?
Go Sheer
Raimonda Kulikauskiene/Getty Images
Dave Benett/Getty Images
Dave Benett/Getty Images
As of late, it seems like absolutely everything is coming up sheer—socks absolutely included. Through fashion week street style and film festival red carpets, a case was made for styling sheer socks with heels, and we're definitely taking notes. A sheer sock (even in a dainty lace, perhaps) with a ballet flat could also arguably make for a dressed up, sexy look.
Add Color
Loewe Spring/Summer 2026
Victor Virgile/Getty Images
Spring/Summer 2026 collections were obviously all about color, but there are ways to incorporate color into the duller months, too (hint: through socks). Socks and other small accessories are a great way of adding a pop to an otherwise dull, neutral outfit palette.
Add A Preppy Argyle
Gilbert Flores/Getty Images
With polo shirts and polo knits already taking over runways and street style, it's clear that preppy style is a forever thing. I think it's especially interesting to add a preppy element to an outfit that otherwise falls mostly under another aesthetic. This fall and winter, pairing argyle socks with heels, flats, and loafers to add a pinch of prep to your look.
Sporty Stripes
Martine Rose Spring 2026
Courtesy of Martine Rose
Dior Homme Spring 2026
WWD/Getty Images
Getty Images
Sporty varsity details will always be in style and, in my opinion, are more fun when paired with a completely non athletic outfit. Add a ribbed sock with varsity stripes to a dressed up look with heels, loafers, or ballet flats. Or, of course, throw them on with sneakers if you're going for full athleisure.
Embrace Embellishments & Adornments
Arnold Jerocki/Getty Images
Perhaps put on the map by Miu Miu, I can't help but spot embellished and adorned socks everywhere. From sequin details to feminine pearls and dainty bows, your socks are an easy way to make a statement.
