Socks may be seen in some circles as a mere practical accessory, hidden within leather boots, free to be mismatched and hole-y. But take this as our PSA to everyone and their sock drawer, because a cute shoes and socks moment is the style set's autumn go-to. Plus, it's a cost-effective way to add a new season flourish to your transitional wardrobe without having to invest in big trends.
It was clear after fashion month's A/W shows earlier this year that a statement sock and trusted shoe combo is the cold-weather solution. Rabanne's silver sequin socks poking out of chunky black t-bar Mary Janes is the grown-up answer to my nostalgic goth girl days. Valentino was also on board. Along with romantic lace tights, there were primary-coloured knit socks worn with thin strappy heels. Simone Rocha's socks were embellished with beaded carnations and roses and worn with patent loafers and biker boots.
The humble accessory is not only beloved by designers but also championed by high street gems like M&S and Uniqlo. What we love about the trend is how it allows us to eke out even more time with our favourite footwear, which is usually reserved for warmer climes. Ballet pumps and Mary Janes instantly become more versatile when matched with some textured ribbed socks. You can lean heavily into an autumnal, preppy aesthetic with a ribbed sock and Oxford loafers, or if you want to channel St Trinians, pull up those knee-highs.
It's likely this quirky pairing will outrule tights for the foreseeable, and for millennials, we sympathise that you might've only just overcome a penchant for barely visible ankle-bearing socks. I'm afraid Gen Z did win that generational debate, and we have fashion week as proof. Even off the runway, fashion girlies are following suit. If you're still on the fence, find our round-up of the best shoes and socks outfits that'll help make your sock choices more intentional this autumn, wearing them loud and proud.
Trainers
It's as if trainers were invented for a whimsical sock pairing. The combination of a sporty silhouette and a girly sock just works. From frilly scalloped edges to pretty patterns, the aesthetic clash is a fashion-forward win. If you prefer to keep it simple, a crisp white crew sock will always look good with a pair of sneaks.
Ballet flats
If any shoe has been given its flowers lately, it's ballet flats. It's even had its own hybrid trainer takeover. I'm overjoyed by their return and not at all ready to box them back up for a long ol' British winter. Lean into the ballerina aesthetic, a la Susanna Lau, opting for a leg warmer instead. In knee-high lengths, it's also giving major grunge vibes that'd make Courtney Love proud.
Loafers and boat shoes
Yes, a plain ribbed sock looks excellent with loafers and boat shoes, but for 2025, we're adopting a quirkier pairing. How cute are Damson Madder's polka dot beauties? Plus, you'll be ticking off another key trend for the season.
Essentiel Antwerp Burgundy and black tiger jacquard-knit mid-length socks
Knee-high socks
Who said socks couldn't be sexy? Miu Miu has ruled the sock trend for many seasons now, but for AW25 Muiccia Prada revealed a gorge selection of semi-sheer knee-highs worn with open-toe mules, polished loafers and buckled trainers. Basically, all the shoes we want on our shoe-drobe rotation.
Mary Janes
White socks look great with Mary Janes. Black and/or red Mary Janes to be exact. It's really just that simple, gang.
Heeled sandals
The weather may have shifted, but a night out can still feature your best sandals by adding a cute pair of socks to the equation. Keep toes warm and your heels looking fresh with hosiery, especially in a neon shade. This styling trick is also a genius way to update your post-summer office wardrobe.
Sophie Leen is the Bookings Editor for Cosmopolitan UK and Women's Health UK. She specialises in creating fashion and shopping content across both digital and print platforms, as well as producing all of our fashion editorial photoshoots, which have included our digital cover with Olly Alexander and our curve influencer’s letter to the high street story. Sophie also looks after our Try Before You Train franchise where our team have tested and reviewed over 100 gymwear items.
