Pop socks, a staple accessory of the 1980s, are experiencing a resurgence in popularity, with celebrities and fashion week runways embracing the trend. The sheer, knee-length socks are being hailed as a stylish and practical alternative to traditional tights.
Personal stylist Lisa Talbot advises that the key to modernizing the pop sock is the finish. Opting for sheer black or nude styles can create a lighter, less visually heavy appearance compared to opaque versions. "The aim is to make the socks look like a deliberate part of your outfit rather than something you have added purely for warmth," Talbot explained.
Footwear choice is also crucial. Talbot suggests pairing pop socks with loafers, ballet flats, or Mary Jane shoes for a preppy aesthetic. Sleek ankle boots can also work, depending on the sock's visibility. Stylist Rochelle White recommends sheer black knee-highs with pointed court shoes, slingbacks, or boots to add texture and chicness.
The relationship between a skirt's hemline and the sock's length is paramount. Talbot notes that a sock ending too close to a below-the-knee skirt hem can create an awkward visual break. Shorter skirts offer more opportunity to showcase the socks, and White suggests that skirts above the knee can also be styled effectively. Assessing the overall silhouette in a full-length mirror is recommended to ensure proportions are balanced.
Subtle patterns, such as fine ribs or delicate designs, can add interest and make the socks feel like an intentional styling element, according to Talbot. When wearing patterned pop socks for the first time, keeping the rest of the outfit simple with plain items and classic shoes allows the socks to be the focal point.
While black pop socks are a safe choice, experimenting with color can also elevate an outfit. Talbot suggests coordinating sock color with shoes, skirts, or other outfit elements to create a cohesive look and make the color choice feel deliberate rather than accidental.