Spark

We’re guilty of not giving our socks enough attention, but recent Pinterest scouring has shown us that socks have the power to completely transform your outfit. Whether they’re strategically paired with heels or peeking out from under perfectly cuffed jeans, they’re easily our new secret style weapon. Here are three outfit ideas that demonstrate how socks can make all the difference.

Tip #1: Be playful, by pairing patterned socks with printed flats.

We’re here to make a case that patterned socks aren’t just for children and hip business men anymore. Fashion is really all about the details, and a peekaboo pattern or picture at your ankles is the perfect sweet surprise to take an outfit up a notch. Find a pattern that speaks to you (we couldn’t resist cute hummingbirds!) and treat your socks like a piece of statement jewellery. They will become the focal point of your outfit and add a playful twist to an otherwise simple look. Wearing all-black on top is a good way to balance things out if the look is feeling quite bold – or you just want to let your socks steal the show. 

Tip #2: Add a little edge to your look with short fishnet socks.

Meet the coolest new addition to your wardrobe. Fishnet socks are simple and affordable, yet pack a major punch. We know… the thought of adding fishnets to your everyday wardrobe might seem daunting, but trust us – socks are the simplest way to try the trend, and they’re becoming a serious fashion-girl must-have. The trick to pulling them off is juxtaposing them against more casual pieces and quirky styling. A floral dress layered over a white tee is a foolproof combo that plays down the drama of the socks, and fun slip-on flats further level out the potential sexiness of fishnets. Throw on a denim jacket and your favourite cross-body bag to finish the look.

Tip #3: Extend the wear of your heels with a pair of thick socks.

Socks are one of the few ways you can extend the life of your strappy heels into colder temps. They might not save you from the snow, but they’ll keep your feet toasty warm on chilly nights. Look to metallic socks that feel special for a night out versus plain, functional socks. They will add a bit of sparkle to your nighttime look in an unexpected way, and immediately change the tone of your outfit from the ordinary dressed-up feel to one that’s more youthful and fashion-forward.

Visit these St. Vital Centre retailers to shop the looks in this post (check stores for availability):

Cute patterned socks 

Black socks with hummingbird graphic: Reitmans, $4.90
Knit turtleneck: Reitmans, $49.99
Button-up shirt: Reitmans $49.90
Blue jeans: Hudson's Bay (Levi's) $98.00
Black blazer: Reitmans, $109.90
Leopard loafers: Aldo, $55.00
Brooches (set of 2): Le Chateau, $19.95

Fishnet socks

Black fishnet socks: Ardene, $7.50
Floral slip dress with white t-shirt: Hudson's Bay (Design Lab), $118.00
Denim jacket: Hudson's Bay (Levi’s), $75.60
Black loafers with pom pom: Brown's (Wishbone), $168.00
Orange cross-body purse: Browns, $75.00

Metallic socks

Metallic socks: Garage, $7.95
Grey turtleneck: Garage, $22.95
Midi-length pleated pleather skirt: BCBG, $439.00
Green suede pumps: BCBG, $149.00
Silver cuff with circle accent: Reitmans, $14.90
Silver ring with circle detail: Reitmans, $9.90
Black cross-body bag: Boes (Guess), $95.00