Sock It To Ya

Marc by Marc Jacobs, New York Fashion Week, Feb. 16.

New York Fashion Week is in full force, and all eyes are on the trends rolling out on the runway.  Models are stomping it up in some fresh footwear for the season, and the sock is making an unusual and bold style appearance with flats and high heels.  Now, pairing your cotton slip-ons with your stilettos may not appear, at first, to jive like milk and cookies, but the more you see this trend, the more you are going to love it.  Think of the combination as your spring boots….but better.  Socks with heels equal stylish foot décor with interchangeable backdrops; switch out your socks for versatile color combinations to pair with your look ‘o the day.  This is an accessory lover’s dream, really.

And, the time to wear this innocent meets edgy trend, is now.  Put your socks on while the crisp spring air begs for more foot coverage, give ‘em a break during the sweltering summer, and then keep them close at hand for the chill of the fall.

Every great trend comes with a great set of rules, and this is no exception. 

Here’s how to get the look:

Nine West, Los Cerritos Center. 

 On your heels
 
Don’t be scared of heights.  Pick some pumps with presence, because with this one - the higher your heels, the hotter the look.
 
Open up.  If you’re going to go open toe – go all the way, and say no to peep toe or peek-a-boo heels.  Give your socks some room with shoes that open completely at the front.

Strap attack.  You can’t have too strappy a shoe, so strap some on.  Criss-crossed or striped, cage or gladiator reminiscent, thick or thin, more straps show more sock and more style.  Check out these bright yellow strappy 4" sandals with multiple buckle accents and rear zip from Nine West at Los Cerritos Center.

Bright is right.  Technicolor heels that are hearty on the hardware also look great with a sock partner underneath.  A simple sock is the perfect complement piece to tame the look.
 

Forever 21, Inland Center.

A sock story
 
Plain is pretty.  Your gym socks, these are not, so don’t take the word plain to an extreme.  Choose basic pairs in sheers or solid shades like these from Forever 21 at Inland Center.   At their most complicated, maybe consider some with ribbing, but remember - the “sole” of this look is in the shoe.
 

J. Crew, The Oaks Shopping Center.

In the shade.  For a subtle version, pick neutral nudes, grounding gray, or a wintery white; for daytime drama, or to light up your night – experiment with the bright colors of the season.  Here are some soft slate colored ones from J. Crew at The Oaks.