Move over maxi dresses and sarongs – this summer’s top fashion trend is the humble sock. Style-makers like Taylor Swift, Irina Shayk and Hayley Bieber have triggered a boom in 'fashion' socks over the last year.
Fashionistas are adding some ‘socks appeal’ with bold patterns, bright colours and big brand names to complete their summer fits. John Lewis says sales of fashion socks are up 90 per cent compared to this time last year, and sales of all socks have increased 66 per cent in the last six months.
A number of style icons have been embracing the trend – Sex and the City’s Sarah Jessica Parker was spotted in New York in a striking pair of Gucci socks. Hitmaker Taylor Swift is also known to be a fan of the trend, while model Irina Shayk paired sporty crew socks with another popular fashion trend, the ‘naked dress’.
Other celebrity sock lovers include Hayley Bieber, Kendall Jenner and Rita Ora. And social media star Charli D'Amelio was pictured arriving at the Prada show during Milan Fashion Week completing her orange outfit with contrasting black ankle socks.
Georgia Frazer, sock buyer at John Lewis, has also revealed her top tips on pulling off the visible sock trend...
Be bold – don’t be afraid of colour but just keep it coordinated to your outfit. A bright pink shirt? A pink pop of sock will round off your look.
All white – a white sock is a cool easy way to update any look. Whether it’s sport socks over leggings, looking tailored with a loafer or with sandals and a floaty dress, they are effortlessly cool. Just make sure you keep those socks bright white for a fresh look.
Add some texture – a ribbed sock or bit of frill can really elevate a look and make it a bit more high fashion. As a rule, a chunky shoe needs a chunky sock.
Let them shine – socks aren’t just for daytime. A sparkly, lurex sock can really lift a look for a night out. Got a pair of uncomfortable heels you’re dying to wear but can’t bare the blisters? Fear not, your socks have you covered.
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Georgia added: “Our customers are particularly loving a rib ankle-high sock in an array of colours – and this leans into the off-duty sport-luxe style which is a massive trend right now. The popularity of marl and pastel sports socks is also growing, as well as socks that add pop of colour or a touch of sparkle are also proving popular to add to any outfit.
‘We are also expecting to see this trend move into menswear. Perhaps this is finally the year dad will really want a pair of socks for Father’s Day."
