The Unexpected Footwear Trend the Fashion Crowd Won't Give Up

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(Image credit: @oliviafaeh)

I wrote an ode to one of my favorite "fashion don’ts” last year. Yes, I’m talking about wearing white socks with black loafers. Growing up, I was told that while sock choice is often an afterthought, the wrong choice could potentially make or break an outfit, especially when said selection consists of a bright white sock and a darker shoe. Well, boy does that "rule” seem antiquated now.

As I’ve been seeing over the last few seasons, the somewhat unexpected footwear trend for some is actually about as forward as it gets. I consistently spot various style setters incorporating white socks and black loafers into their chic vibes. While I haven’t been out much, I will continue opting for the trend with cropped pants in the future.

To showcase the trend that the fashion crowd won’t seem to give up, I rounded up some of my favorite outfits featuring white socks with black loafers—you know, to use as inspiration if you’re intrigued by the silhouette. I also included shopping recommendations for each of the ensembles in question.

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(Image credit: @champagnemani)

A flowy button-down shirt is a modern staple and looks fresh with shorts. Add your white socks and loafers and you’re set.

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(Image credit: @lefevrediary)

This coordinating vibe is incredibly elegant. The loafers and socks complement the ensemble just flawlessly.

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(Image credit: @oliviafaeh)

If you’re looking for an A+ denim vibe, consider a look like this with the oversize blazer.

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(Image credit: @camillecharriere)

This ensemble is easy and sleek. If it’s slightly warmer where you are, an outfit without the coat and with just the simple top, shorts, socks, and loafers works, too.

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(Image credit: @jen_wonders)

Keep it effortless and of-the-moment by opting for a maxi trench with your staples.

Next, check out more chic shoe trends.

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Market Director

Bobby Schuessler is a fashion editor with over a decade of editorial experience covering shopping, style, and beauty. He's spent over seven years at Who What Wear, currently leading the market team to deliver highly covetable and convertible content. He creates data-driven shopping guides featuring top retailers like Nordstrom, Shopbop, and Net-a-Porter and is at the forefront of Who What Wear's shopping tentpole strategies, including Amazon Prime Day. He also works on branded content initiatives and appears on camera in video and shopping livestream franchises. He has also worked across a variety of other media brands and fashion retailers like Refinery29, PureWow, Men's Health, and Gilt covering commerce, trend reporting, women's and men's fashion, home, and lifestyle.