5 Easy Rules for Styling Socks With Boots

Some styling tricks in fashion are simply not so, well, simple. Take pulling off cropped wide-leg pants or mixing prints, for example—they just aren’t for the faint of heart. But others couldn’t be easier. Case in point: styling socks with boots.

Whether the socks are short or tall, chunky or finely ribbed, solid or patterned, all you have to master are a few easy-to-follow tricks for nailing this classic fall and winter combo. Lucky for you, we’ve consulted our expert stylists and rounded up the best tips for mastering socks with boots.

Tips for Styling Socks with Boots

1. Pay attention to proportion

As a general rule of thumb, taller boots work best with knee or over-the-knee socks, while shorter styles (think trouser or crew socks) pair well with ankle boots or booties.

photo: @kaleighmelissa

2. Don’t be scared to make a statement

Whether it’s with a bright color, contrasting neutral, or sheer pattern, socks are an easy way to break up monochrome or one-note outfits.

3. Leg shape matters

Not all pants and jeans were created equal. When wearing leggings or skinny jeans, try tucking them into ribbed or chunky socks and finishing the look off with a pair of hiking boots for a rugged-chic style. If you’re going for cuffed jeans or straight-leg denim, style your socks so they’re sitting right up against—not above or below—the cuff.

photo: @hellobrownfamily

4. Height matters, too

For a shorter pair of socks, scrunch them up so they sit right above the ankle bone. When styling taller socks with boots, aim to hit right below the knee. In both cases, the right height helps to draw attention away from the wider parts of your lower leg and keeps you looking sleek and streamlined, even when wearing thicker socks with boots.

photo: @larissainokc

5. Layer up

When it gets really chilly (or you just want to look super cute), layer wooly socks over opaque tights, then pair them with ankle boots and a dress or skirt. How’s that for an easy outfit?

photo: @tayraeamann

We hope these tips help you put your most-stylish foot forward when styling socks with boots. Did we miss any tips? Share your advice in a comment below!

Did you know that you can send custom notes to your stylist? For example, you can leave a note for your stylist and mention that you’re looking for outfits to pair with your boots, and they’ll send you an Edit filled with pieces that compliment your boots!

True story. 🙂 Order your Style Edit and leave a note for your stylist today!