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Mar 26, 2025

11 Ways to Style Crew Socks

When in doubt, just add socks. Getty Images For far too long, crew socks have been overlooked—widely recognized as a necessity, rather than a useful accessory. But recently, a slew of brands have

When in doubt, just add socks.

Getty Images

For far too long, crew socks have been overlooked—widely recognized as a necessity, rather than a useful accessory. But recently, a slew of brands have transformed the preppy accessory, bringing the humble crew sock out of their years-long slump and squarely into the limelight.

The athletic sock style has become an integral part of Miu Miu’s current sporty prep era, for example. For several seasons, the brand’s overarching aesthetic has centered on excessive layering and intentionally exposed undergarments. The underwear-as-pants trend has been the most talked-about example of this, but statement socks, too, have been featured on many of Miu Miu’s runways. Other brands like Prada, Lacoste, and Coach have embraced the crew sock renaissance.

As a direct result of this, influencers, celebrities, and normies alike have begun styling their academic-inspired separates with calf-grazing socks. Penny loafers and sneakers, of course, are the crew sock’s preferred partner—but their styling capabilities don’t end there. When done right, your favorite tube socks can be worn with virtually every style of footwear (pumps, sandals, work boots, ballet flats, etc.), as well as any means of dress.

From prep-inspired outfits to tenniscore looks, and even the most decadent dresses, here’s how to make the crew sock trend work for you.

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There are certain weeks of the year that feel utterly impossible to dress for—those in-between times, when the temperature doesn’t match the season. And it’s during those periods, especially, that crew socks can act as a useful weapon in your trans-seasonal arsenal. Pair your coziest socks with the spring shoe trend you’re most eager to wear, to make them feel appropriate for both the date and the weather.

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If you’re looking for ways to wear crew socks—and stylishly—you need to look no further than Miu Miu’s fall/winter 2025 show. Fashion A-listers flocked to the runway show in droves, and nearly every ankle was covered in a pair of stylish tube socks. Styling takeaways run the gamut, but most pairings include crisp blazers, micro mini skirts, and androgynous polo shirts.

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Oh, you didn’t know crew socks could be sexy? Well, this see-through style is here to set you straight. Delicate and a wee bit edgy, these babies will give any footwear they’re worn with a decidedly elevated feel—with subtle lingerie-inspired undertones, to boot.

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A white sock worn over a pair of black tights emphasizes an outfit’s layered elements. It’s a great way to add a playful color contrast that makes any look feel that much more playful. Tap into another budding trend by stacking on stripes, for even more layered goodness.

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You can’t go wrong with a contrasting sock (as evidenced in the previous photo), but don’t underestimate the joys of single-tone dressing. Pick one color family and stay loyal to it, matching your socks to your shoes, to your bag, to your blouse. It’s a trick beloved by some of the world’s most famous style stars, from Katie Holmes to Princess Kate.

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Sneakers and tube socks are a classic pairing beloved by all—from school girls to soccer dads. Even so, you can give the combo a more high-fashion feel by styling your gym favorites with posh staples, like a professional button-down or a meticulously pleated statement skirt.

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At this point, the cherry-colored trend has likely overtaken most aspects of your wardrobe—it’s about time your sock drawer fell in line. Add a crimson pair to your usual rotation for a vibrant color pop. The look can add an eclectic feel to anything, from midi skirts to pantsuits.

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Crew socks and loafers go hand-in-hand—that’s a give-in. And with the latter’s recent rise in popularity, it’s a combination worth investing in. Give a cozy vibe to the professional footwear style, by mixing and matching your tube socks with your loafer collection. Finish with more academic-inspired pieces, like cable-knit sweaters and button-up shirts.

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Embrace the country club of it all, with a few tennis-inspired basics. Pop a blazer on over your favorite varsity sweater and workout skirt for a casual look that still feels work-appropriate.

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One of my most controversial sartorial opinions is that socks should absolutely be worn with sandals. It’s a risky move, to be sure, but it absolutely pays off, when done right. Try pairing the look with a mini skirt and baseball cap to lean into the eclectic vibe.

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Remember when I said crew socks could be worn with pretty much every shoe style? Allow me to double down on that statement. Sporty tube socks play particularly well with ballet flats because they taper the shoe’s innate girly vibes. It makes the style feel much more wearable, for those of us who prefer an edgier aesthetic (raises hand).