There once was a time when leaving the house with socks (no shoes) was frowned upon.
But according to fashion, it’s trending — or rather wearing shoes that strongly resemble socks is trending.
It’s a look worn by sisters and top models Gigi and Bella Hadid, who were the faces of Fendi’s Spring/Summer 2017 campaign. In select advertisements, Gigi sported a high-heeled floral sock bootie, while Bella wore a striped bootie adorned with argyle stitching and bow-like embroidery. Friend and fellow model Kendall Jenner has also been spotted in booties, though mostly selections from Yeezy, the company founded by brother-in-law Kanye West.
But honestly, we can hardly blame ’em. Sock booties are comfortable (depending on the heel height). They’re versatile. And they’re effortlessly sleek.
And, contrary to their name, not all booties are made equal. Some bear a slight sock resemblance, while others are a total hybrid of socks and high heels.
Some booties, like Fendi’s, feature stripes and stitchwork as an ode to the traditional sock. Others, like Yeezy’s, feature a slim-fitting silhouette similar to an ankle boot. Select styles can be worn formally and casually, accommodating looks ranging from classic to contemporary to preppy, offbeat, ultra-feminine and sporty. And that makes it a trend worth trying out, at least in WAG’s book.
Above, from left:
(1) Polished 105mm Sock Bootie by Fendi
For the gals saying, “I’m not sure if it’s for me,” Fendi has a solution. This polished calf leather bootie cleverly features a ribbed black sock, visible from every angle, except the front. It adds personality to a laid-back look or sultriness to a little black dress. $1,000.
(2) Striped Knit Sock Bootie by Fendi
Of course, we can’t provide a list of sock booties without the look that Fendi’s known for. Here, the sock motif is carried from the ankle stripes to the color block underneath the toe line, from the all-over argyle stitching to the floral bow embroidery. Even the heel is striped akin to a sock, while the shoe features a lace-up vamp, similar to a classic sneaker. If you’re a fan of the sock-shoe fusion, we suggest getting your mitts on a Fendi, like this one. $1,050.
(3) Katie 85 Suede Sock Bootie by Gianvito Rossi
Contemporary and comfortable, these 3.3-inch heels are made for day to night. Available in neutral taupe, the suede and cable-knit sock bootie features a pointed toe for a classic finish. $1,145.
(4) Natalie Stretch Sparkle 110mm Bootie by Giuseppe Zanotti
They’re subtle, yet with a 4.3-inch heel and an all-over glitter, they speak volumes. And what better way to try out the trend than with a designer known best for his craftsmanship? $860.
For more, visit neimanmarcus.com.
