How To Make Socks A Style Staple This Winter

Knowing how to accessorize with socks in the winter is crucial. Unfortunately, socks are often overlooked and unappreciated when it comes to styling. But the right pair of socks really can have the potential to take any ensemble to the next level. Plus, your toes will surely thank you for the added layer of coziness. So instead of mindlessly throwing on a pair, why not play with patterns, colors, and trends? Seriously, y'all. Socks are the ensemble booster you never knew you had.

There's never a day when I don't consider socks as an element to my overall look. But this time of year is when my love for the item really blooms. They're just too perfect not to wear with fuzzy sweaters, over-sized coats, fluffy knits, and trendy boots. Since socks come in so many varieties, they're also versatile no matter what your personal style may be.

So to provide some sock-spiration for your winter ensemble planning, here are seven tips on how to style socks this season. Take my word for it: Socks are the perfect accessory to experiment with because, duh, #warmtoes and #lookingchic. And if you love the sandals with socks look in summer, get ready to let your toe-houses take your winter-wear ensembles to new heights.

1. As An Unexpected Element

I don't know about you, but my winter wardrobe becomes increasingly duller as the temperatures continue to drop. The colder it gets, the more inclined I am to just throw on my black pants, black shirt, and black coat and call it a day.

That being said, reaching for a fun pair of socks helps me get out of that blah rut and actually encourage myself to experiment with winter style. With a pair of athletic socks like these striped ones, I can wear my favorite winter pieces with an unexpected athletic element thrown into the mix.

2. To Cheat Trends

I don't think there's a celebrity, blogger, or fashion editor who hasn't worn a pair of over-the-knee boots sometime in the past three years. There's no denying they're an it-accessory of the winter, but they often have a price tag beyond most Millennial budgets.

If you're hoping to achieve the look without breaking the bank, just opt for a pair of over-the-knee socks. Not only are they a fraction of the price, but they'll give off the same alluring, cool look as any boots.

3. To Play With Patterns

Ever walked down a sock aisle at a store and been amazed by all the different designs out there? I'm not going to lie to you: I've been there more than a few times. And that's exactly how I got roped into buying these tie dye black and white knee-high socks. When I first bought them, I was admittedly intimidated regarding how to wear them. But pairing them with another print really makes them pop.

4. To Play With Color

On that same note, socks are great for added color as well. Like I mentioned before, I'm partial to wearing black, black, and, well, more black during the colder months. But in order to spice things up with different colors, I reach for bright and colorful socks. These yellow ones are definitely both, and paired with black clothes, they add some much needed color to an otherwise basic ensemble.

5. To Winterize Your Warm Weather Items

I love winter, but my summer wardrobe doesn't exactly feel the same way; and I hate neglecting my warmer weather clothes for a whole two seasons. While I wouldn't advise reaching for tank tops or shorts in January, rocking a pair of cropped jeans or capris tucked into warm socks will totally make them wearable even in the dead of winter.

6. With Other Socks

One of my favorite ways to wear socks is, well, with other socks. I don't mean pairing your knee-highs with other knee-highs, but rather a pair of fun socks with a pair of tights. Sporting tights is already a no-brainer for winter, and wearing socks over tights will provide you with some fun style experimentation potential. I wore sheer black tights with a pair of fuzzy, gray socks for a perfectly stylish yet warm and cozy look.

7. To Have Fun

As a sock aficionado, I know how easy it is to get overwhelmed with choices (especially when they're all so darn cute). But when it comes down to it, remember to choose a pair that you love and that might encourage you to step out of your sartorial comfort zone. A crazy pair of socks might seem intimidating, but take it as a challenge to amp up your winter wardrobe with colors, patterns, and unexpected elements.

Happy accessorizing, friends!

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Images: Melodi Erdogan