It’s autumn/winter 1994, and Versace has just unveiled its latest ad campaign starring the original supers. Dressed in pastel-hued knitted sweaters, metallic mini skirts, and towering platform heels, they embodied the ultimate babydoll aesthetic. But the true standout? The vibrant socks paired with those heels – a playful detail that’s stepped back onto the fashion frontlines this season.
While the look may conjure images of boarding school uniforms – think Cher Horowitz’s white knee-high socks paired with Mary Janes in Clueless – the styling has long outgrown its playground roots.
The autumn/winter 2025 collections placed the styling trick firmly at the forefront of our sartorial agendas. At Miu Miu, knee-high socks in an array of hues were paired with sleek stilettos. Meanwhile, Chanel styled its signature black-and-white block pumps with delicate pointelle, bow-adorned socks, while Louis Vuitton teamed ankle boots with thigh-high iterations.
At Rabanne and Marni, hosiery shimmered with embellishment, clashing boldly against snakeskin heels. Meanwhile, Valentino proved the power of unexpected pairings, matching emerald green hosiery with metallic pumps for a striking effect.
Socks styled with heels are hardly a runway innovation this season. The look can be traced back to Prada’s spring/summer 1994 collection. The Italian house has revisited the pairing time and again, from ruched socks worn with heels in its spring/summer 2016 show to ribbed styles teamed with satin ballet flats for autumn/winter 2022.
© Getty Images
© Getty ImagesWhen it comes to styling the look, proportion is key. Longer sock styles can help visually elongate the leg when paired with heels, lending a polished, preppy feel, while ankle-grazing lengths offer a subtler take. Colour is equally important – opt for bold shades like red or pastel pink, and ensure there’s enough contrast with your heels so the socks stand out rather than blend in.
From razor-thin mesh to Prada’s signature ribbed textures, fabric choice can add an extra dimension. As for footwear, think playful slingbacks, ballerinas, or even open-toe styles.
How to style socks with heels:
© Getty ImagesWith faux fur
Faux fur isn’t just for autumn, it can bring a chic edge to your spring wardrobe too. It lets you show off your legs while still staying cosy in the breeze.
© Getty ImagesWith a polo
The look is undeniably preppy with a sporty twist, so lean into it with a sleek polo shirt.
© Getty ImagesMonochrome
If you want to embrace the look in a more subtle way, match the colour of your socks to your shoes and keep the outfit monochromatic.
© Getty ImagesEmbellished socks
If you want a bold look, choose a pair of embellished socks for a glitzy twist.
© Getty ImagesWith a trench coat
As soon as spring hits, we revive our trench coats from our wardrobes. They make the perfect jacket to pair with the look.
© Getty ImagesKnee-highs
If you want to make a statement, choose a pair of knee-high socks rather than ankle socks.
© Getty ImagesWith florals
Florals for spring may not be groundbreaking, but when styled with socks and heels, they come together effortlessly.
© Getty ImagesWith leather
Just because your footwear is making a statement doesn’t mean the rest of your outfit has to hold back. Get playful with colours and textures, a double leather look is always a chic choice.
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