Socks with sandals are no longer a hard no. Today on the BESOCKS Journal we look at how this combo went from style mistake to rising trend, and explain how to wear it without looking out of place.
Socks with sandals: from unthinkable to must-have
For years, socks with sandals were seen as an unforgivable style mistake. The image that came to mind was lost tourists and grandads on the beach. Yet fashion, with its huge capacity to reinvent itself, has completely turned the tables on this much-hated duo, which is now a symbol of attitude, avant-garde and style.
That's fashion: what was once considered a tasteless choice is now a statement of urban style. Major sandal brands have spotted the massive rise of this trend and gone all in, with names like Birkenstock and UGG now hot on the heels of the big sneaker brands.
The evolution of an icon: from hard no to fashion passport
It's not just sandal brands that have emerged – or rather re-emerged. The big players in footwear have also taken over this part of the market with new models, and luxury houses like Balenciaga and Gucci have launched products to meet growing demand.
But how could such a looked-down-upon combo conquer the fashion world and be worn by rappers, footballers and celebrities? The trend has taken off because it mixes nostalgia, comfort and, above all, disruption. That's fashion: what was always seen as a slip-up becomes a tool for breaking the rules.
Where does the socks-with-sandals trend come from?
You might think this trend was invented by retirees spending their golden years on the Spanish coast, but it actually comes from much further away: Japan. There, wearing socks with sandals has never been taboo – quite the opposite, it's one of the most common sock-and-shoe combinations.
Just look at tabi socks, with their split toe. And, as with many Japanese trends, streetwear adopted it and it spread at dizzying speed. It first appeared on the streets of Tokyo, and now you can see it in the front rows of the world's major fashion capitals.
How to wear socks with sandals without losing style
Now that you know the history and why this once-scorned combo has become a trend, it's time to learn how to wear socks with sandals without looking like a sunburnt tourist. The line is fine, so just follow these 3 rules to get it right.
Quality materials
Always go for original socks, ideally seamless, for that extra comfort you need all day. Choose embroidered socks, textures and finishes that are subtle yet elegant, so you avoid that overly casual look that's easy to fall into with sandals.
Footwear matters
This combination is controversial enough without ignoring the footwear. Not every sandal works. Leave classic pool sliders for more casual moments. Silhouettes like the Birkenstock Boston, UGG or brands like Suicoke are your best allies with socks, as their design is more refined.
Choose strategic colours
Earthy tones or more basic, easy-to-match palettes will get you a long way. A monochrome total look, for example, is one of the easiest ways to get it right without overthinking. You can still wear bolder colours, but playing it safe gives you better odds.
Explore our selection of patterned socks to find the print that best suits your look.
Also on the Journal: How to fold socks to save space and How to wear socks with a suit for a flawless look.