Calcetines con chanclas: la combinación que ha dejado de ser un 'no'

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The combination of socks with sandals has stopped being an absolute no. Today on the Besocks blog, we explain how this combination has gone from a style mistake to a rising trend and how to adopt it without drawing attention or looking ridiculous.

Socks with sandals: From unthinkable to essential in fashion

For many years, the combination of socks with sandals has been seen as an unforgivable style mistake. When we think of socks and sandals, we picture clueless tourists and grandparents at the beach. However, fashion, with its great ability to reinvent itself, has completely broken away from the hate of this duo, which is now a symbol of attitude, avant-garde, and style.

That's fashion: what was once seen as a style choice lacking taste is now a statement of urban aesthetics. And the major sandal or flip-flop brands have recognized the massive rise of this trend and have gone all in on the market, such as brands like Birkenstock or UGG, which have positioned themselves alongside the big sneaker brands.

The evolution of an icon: from the 'resounding no' to the fashionista passport

But not only have new sandal or flip-flop brands emerged, or rather, re-emerged, but the big players within the footwear industry have also dominated this part of the market with different models. Luxury brands like Balenciaga or Gucci have also launched products in response to the growing demand.

But how can it be that such an underrated combination has conquered the fashion world and is worn by rappers, footballers, or celebrities? This trend has succeeded because it mixes nostalgia, comfort, and above all disruption. That's fashion, that world where what has always been seen as a slip turns into a biased resource to break with the established.

Where does the trend of wearing socks with sandals come from?

Although you might think this trend was created by retired tourists who see Benidorm as the perfect destination to spend the last years of their lives, it is a trend that comes from far away, specifically from Japan. In Japan, wearing socks with sandals has never been taboo; on the contrary, it has been one of the most used sock-footwear combinations.

Proof of this are the tabi socks, with separation between the toes. And yes, as happens with many Japanese trends, streetwear made it its own and it has spread at a dizzying speed. It first started to be seen on the streets of Tokyo and now we can see this trend in the front rows of the most important fashion capitals in the world.

How to wear socks with sandals without losing style?

Now that you know the story and have understood why this defenestrated combo from the fashion world has now become a trend, it's time to learn how to pair socks with sandals without looking like an English retiree. The line that separates one from the other is thin, so you just need to follow the next 3 premises to succeed.

Quality materials

Always opt for organic cotton socks, and if they can be seamless even better, as you will gain that bit of comfort so necessary throughout the day. Choose embroidery, textures, and finishes that are subtle but elegant and that don't give you that extra touch of informality that's hard to avoid when wearing flip-flops.

Footwear matters

The nature of this combination is already quite controversial, so you shouldn't ignore the footwear. Not all flip-flops or sandals work. Typical pool sliders are better left for more casual options. Silhouettes like the Birkenstock Boston, UGG, or brands like Suicoke are your best allies for wearing socks, as they have a more polished design.

Choose strategic colors

Choose earth tones or more basic and easy-to-match color ranges and you'll be ahead. For example, the total monochromatic look is usually one of the best combinations to avoid overthinking and get the combination right. It's not that you can't use more striking colors, but by playing it safe, you have a better chance of succeeding.