How to Wear Socks With Sandals This Winter

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Before stowing away your open-toed sandals this winter, give them new life with the layering accessories of the season — socks. No longer is the combo solely relegated to tourists in cheesy T-shirts and straw hats. By experimenting with proportion, color, fit, and texture, you can combine both style and functionality as soon as temperatures start to plummet. And yes, tights count too!


To get the most out of your open-toed shoes (and heels in particular), just look to the fall runways. Tory Burch paired double-strapped sandals with chunky gray knee-highs rolled down to mid-calf, while Prozena Schouler set mules against thick black fishnets. Make the fashion taboo work for you this season with four easy ways to execute the look below.

Thick Socks

Chunky socks are nothing if not a cold weather staple. Transition your neutral sandals and ankle-baring denim from fall to winter by adding colorful, slouchy knit socks. Just make sure there's a little skin left between the jeans and socks to avoid looking sloppy.

Leg Warmers

Leg warmers are an ideal way to get the most out of open-toed shoes and mini-skirts when it starts to cool off. Depending on your skirt length, wear them scrunched down around the ankle or stretched above the knee to add some texture (and warmth) to an otherwise bare-legged look.

Thick Tights

Thick tights in darker shades can make even the highest platforms look casual. Throw on plain ones when wearing patterned or brightly colored heels, or a knit pair to play up minimalist patent leather shoes.

Dainty Socks

Update your statement sandals with a daintier sock for a fun party look. Fishnet ankle socks add something extra without looking frumpy, while a frilly pair of ruffled socks lend a feminine touch. Wear them with a dress that hits right at the knee or a free-flowing skirt for a dinner date or office party.