Some trends are fairly tame and others take a walk on the wild side. And then there’s the sock boot trend made popular by Balenciaga that runs past wild straight into berserk. And I like it.

At first glance, it doesn’t seem very versatile. There aren’t many occasions that most would think to reach for a boldly colored, witchy-toed, ankle-grabbing nod to the victorian granny boot silhouette which is why I thought this challenge would be particularly interesting and useful. Many designers in both the luxury and high-end markets are making this trend easily accessible for all styles.

CASUAL

A thicker, wedge-like heel makes for comfortable wearing and the studding dresses down this take on the trend without compromising design.

How much punch do these boots give to an otherwise classic sweater and jeans outfit? Tucking the skinny jean into the boot to make sure they are fully in display is a simple way to showcase the focal point without going all out.

BUSINESS CASUAL

For those people who work in a more conservative office environment and still want to partake in the trend, keeping the heel slim and the toe pointed and keeping the colors dark can help bring the sock boot out of party time to professionalism.

Many fashion houses simplify the sock boot by offering them in muted colors (here, here).

Not known for my conservative couture, I still managed to achieve a similar effect by choosing a pointed toe boot in a dark floral print and pushing the shaft down for more of an ankle boot feel. Chosen carefully, sock boots will not detract from the fact that you mean business.

CLUBBING

Anything goes. You want sexy? Choose a sky high stiletto, maybe with an open toe (here, here, here). Just wanna have fun? How about a bright color or metallic or some lace (here, here, here)? A little lace never hurt anybody. Planning on dancing the night away? Consider keeping some of those design elements up opting for a more comfortable block heel.

My hooves can’t swerve in skyscraper stilettos like they use to and I am loving the block heel of this boot for their comfort. But the glittery silver color keeps these lovelies party ready.

COCKTAIL/DINNER

Once again, anything goes. A cocktail party is a perfect opportunity to be adventurous in your style choices without the constraints of a more formal affair.There is something a bit more elegant about attire chosen for a cocktail party than for a night clubbing.

So though I would go all out with color and fabric, I would keep the silhouette more sleek with a closed-pointy toe and a stiletto heel of any height (including kitten).

On a completely unrelated note, can we just have a moment of awed silence for this dress?

Amen.

OCCASION/FORMAL

I actually think, for the sock boot, the same rules for the cocktail section apply. Emphasis is usually on how dressy the clothes are and the shoes tend to be used as an accessory that help ice a very delicious cake.

I kept the boots more muted to accentuate the blazer and further elevate the light pink jumpsuit. I could see wearing dark, flowy jumpsuit with beautifully embellished boots (here). Really, the possibilities are endless.

If you’ve been dubious about the sock boot trend, don’t be! With the countless varieties out there, you’re sure to find a pair that will fit seamlessly into your wardrobe. So, show those ankles some love and wrap them up tight!

Peace Yinz,

Dita

LINK LOVE

Blog series introduction: here

Accompanying video: here

Outfit #1

Sweater – Aritzia (old)

Necklace – Betsy and Iya Anyi (here)

Jeans – Levi’s Mile High Super Skinny (here)

Boots – Jeffrey Campbell for Free People Jagger (here)

Outfit #2

Necklace – Grayling Jewelry Billie choker (here)

Shirt Old Navy (old)

Pants – Ali Golden (old)

Boots – Zara (unavailable)

Outfit #3

Jacket – Zara (unavailable)

Camisole – Who What Wear (unavailable) similar here

Pants – A New Day Zipper Ponte here

Boots – Steve Madden (unavailable)

Outfit #4

Earrings – (old) similar here, here

Dress – Asos (old)

Boots – Zara (unavailable)

Outfit #5

Earrings – Old Navy (old)

Blazer – Kenneth Cole (old)

Jumpsuit – Lacausa here

Boots – Zara (unavailable)