The Outfit "Mistake" I Fully Embrace Now—Don't Come for Me

When I was growing up, there was one divisive dressing choice that was often considered an "outfit mistake”—wearing socks with sandals. It’s to note that wearing white socks with black dress shoes was also considered a "no” for many, although I love that vibe now. And the same goes for socks and sandals. While some may not be as into the look, I think the silhouette is quite chic. I also fully believe in wearing whatever you love, no matter what anyone thinks, so for me, going for socks and sandals is where it’s at.

I’ve actually been opting into the look for the last few years, and I’ve started going for it even more recently as the finishing touch to my loungewear silhouettes. For the most part, I’ve been going for white tube socks (typically Nike or Hanes) with either my Birkenstocks or Adidas slides. And I’m not alone. After scrolling through Instagram one afternoon, it became clear that many fashion people are also embracing this look as well. With all this in mind, I thought I’d showcase some of my favorite looks featuring socks and sandals. You’ll find the ensembles below, along with a range of inspired shopping inspiration as well.

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(Image credit: @bobbyschuessler)

Here I am in one of my WFH uniforms featuring those trusty white socks and black slides.

Check Out How Fashion People Are Wearing This Chic Trend

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(Image credit: @aude_julie)

A coordinating sweatsuit is effortless with white socks and sandals.

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(Image credit: @honeybelleworld)

Tuck leggings into thicker socks with your sandals for a cozy vibe.

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(Image credit: @itsmekellieb)

A graphic tee, joggers, socks, and sandals is a look that’s comfortable and chic.

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(Image credit: @taniceelizabeth)

Another A+ joggers, socks, and sandals look for you.

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(Image credit: @_jessicaskye)

A monochromatic outfit made up of comfy pieces just works.

Shop more socks and sandals:

Next, check out more stylish ways to wear sandals with socks.

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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.