The $9 Accessory We Have Bella Hadid to Thank for Going Viral
These days I'm convinced that if Bella Hadid stepped out wearing a literal garbage bag, a throng of her so-called Bellabots would go out and do the same. Okay, maybe that's a little dramatic, but you get the idea. The supermodel's sartorial influence is not to be denied—from Adidas Sambas to platform Uggs, we just highlighted the seven trends she made famous in 2022. And, surprise, we're back again to add one more item to that list: tall socks.
While Miss Hadid hardly invented this top-drawer staple (it's gone in and out of style since the 1920s), she's definitely made it her signature look this season, so much so that we can trace the impact her styling choices have had on the rest of the fashion world. And just below, we're doing just that. Everyone on Instagram (including more celebs that include Rosalía and Iris Law) are wearing knee-high socks with skirts and ladylike shoes like pumps and ballet flats, proving just how popular the "grandma" item has become. What's more, you can find it on Amazon for $9 and across the internet for not much more than that, making it a delightfully affordable trend piece to try out for yourself.
Ahead, see how Bella Hadid and more celebs are wearing the tall socks trend. Then, shop the cheap but impactful accessory trend.
On Bella Hadid:
While backstage at Miu Miu's spring 2023 show in Paris, Hadid styled a look from the brand that featured a skirt suit, a logo-affixed lingerie set, and yes, knee-high stockings.
On Bella Hadid: Sandy Liang jacket, skirt, and bra
Styling these socks can seem tricky, but Bella seems to have landed on the outfit combination that makes the most sense with them. It consists of a skirt set and pretty flats.
On Hadid: Saint Laurent Teddy Jacket ($2690); Nike Cushion Crew Socks ($24); Missoma Good Vibes Double Gemstone Crossover Ring ($154)
Here, the tall socks are an outfit-enhancing addition to another big 2022 shoe trend: mary janes.
On Hadid: Fancí Club denim corset and skirt; Arms of Eve Bahamas Pearl Necklace ($119)
Hadid must have taken a cue from the Miu Miu runway because she styled her mini skirt and ballet flats with tall scrunched socks.
On Hadid: Oakley sunglasses, Nike x Jacquemus Humara Sneakers ($160)
The lesson in all of her outfits is that a midi or midi skirt is what lets the socks have their moment to shine.
On celebs and fashion girls:
On Rosalía: Miu Miu skirt, socks, and heels
Hadid is far from the only celeb to back the tall socks look. Rosalía opted for a similar ensemble with Miu Miu's viral flats and micro mini skirt.
All across Instagram, fashion girls are emulating the ladylike feel of tall stockings. Another shoe trend they marry well with? Loafers.
Reality TV star and newly-minted runway talent Amelia Gray Hamlin brought her pair into nighttime with satin platforms and a sparkly skirt.
Consider the sheer knee-highs as an alternative when full-on tights just aren't the move.
While tall socks make the most sense with polished pieces, this Iris Law outfit is making us rethink how they can work with more undone outfits, too.
Wearing tall socks with pointy toe pumps is an old-school move that feels surprisingly fresh.
More tall socks in the market:
Big varsity vibes.
I like the idea of wearing these with mini skirts and cool heels.
Up next, see the 2023 coat trend that we're not waiting another minute to shop.
Anna is an NYC-based senior fashion editor who has been a member of the Who What Wear team for over seven years, having begun her career in L.A. at brands like Michael Kors and A.L.C. As an editor, she has earned a reputation for her coverage of breaking trends, emerging brands, luxury shopping curations, fashion features, and more. Anna has penned a number Who What Wear cover interviews, including Megan Fox, Julia Garner, and Lilly Collins. She also leads the site’s emerging travel vertical that highlights all things travel and lifestyle through a fashion-person lens.
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