The Crew Socks Fashion Trend Is an Easy, Low-Effort Way to Give Your Outfit a Boost (2024)

Even celebrities like Kristen Stewart and Bella Hadid can't quit this underrated accessory.

Taylor Lane is a Maryland-based freelance writer who covers all things beauty, fashion, and shopping. She was previously an Ecommerce writer for InStyle.

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Published on March 11, 2022 @ 10:54AM

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The Crew Socks Fashion Trend Is an Easy, Low-Effort Way to Give Your Outfit a Boost (2)

While we once spent years trying to hide our socks, investing in the teeniest, tiniest, most invisible pairs, showing them off is in again. Over the past few years, crew socks have made a solid comeback, and whether you're scrunching them at the bottom of your sweats or letting them pop out from under a pair of jeans, this little extra has proven to be an easy way to elevate any look of the day.

Kristen Stewart Paired Her Plunging Pinstripe Suit With This Surprising Accessory

The Crew Socks Fashion Trend Is an Easy, Low-Effort Way to Give Your Outfit a Boost (3)

So, what actually qualifies as a crew sock? Crew socks fall at mid-calf and still leave plenty of room under the knee. Unlike ankle socks, this longer alternative keeps both your feet and a portion of your legs warm. Plus, they look cute and add a little something extra to your outfit. Celebrities, top fashion brands, and streetwear enthusiasts enjoy incorporating crew socks into their looks, wearing them as a daily accessory.

Still, styling them can be tricky, so we're rounding up 10 ways to wear crew socks, ahead.

We Need to Talk About Ashley Banks' Socks From The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air

Style Them With a Fitness Set

The Crew Socks Fashion Trend Is an Easy, Low-Effort Way to Give Your Outfit a Boost (4)

athleisure

Maybe it's the vintage look it creates, or perhaps it's just the comfort factor, but there's something so appealing about an activewear set paired with crew socks. Of course, you don't need a gym membership to rock this ensemble — athleisure is still a top trend. Not quite sure where to snag a quality pair of socks? Set Active makes a great option, which will hold up throughout your workout and your commute to the office.

Gather Some Celebrity Inspiration

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Kristen Stewart

When celebrities lean into a trend, it's hard not to pay attention. Even for today's top style icons, crew socks are a must — they've been spotted on Kaia Gerber, Bella Hadid, Lucy Hale, and Kristen Stewart. Many pair them with loungewear, but in reality, crew socks look great with a variety of different aesthetics, whether you're rocking a maxi dress or structured trousers.

Amp Up a Simple Outfit

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Even if your look consists of a simple top and leggings, throwing on a pair of crew socks will add an extra detail that feels fashion-forward and fun.

Nail the '90s Look

The Crew Socks Fashion Trend Is an Easy, Low-Effort Way to Give Your Outfit a Boost (7)

shacket

Princess Diana was the original inspiration for teaming crew socks and biker shorts, but the '90s fit still works today. An oversized sweatshirt or even a shacket will make this combo complete.

Dress Them Up

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If you're ready to ditch the sweats, reach for a blazer and jeans instead. A pair of crew socks will surely keep your ankles warm, but at the same time, will give this classic, down-to-business look a more relaxed spin.

Make Them Part of Your Foundation

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includes an animal print

Longer-length skirts are another big trend. Let this piece be the star of your outfit (especially if it includes an animal print!) by adding a solid top and a pair of crew socks. This outfit idea is a mix between cozy and elevated, so you'll find it's appropriate for almost any non-formal occasion.

Think Preppy

The Crew Socks Fashion Trend Is an Easy, Low-Effort Way to Give Your Outfit a Boost (10)

a pleated skirt

The truth is, there are no rules when it comes to crew socks —you can pair them with just about anything — but they definitely complement preppy fashion choices. Style a basic pair with chunky loafers and trousers or a pleated skirt. If wearing these babies scrunched isn't for you, pull them straight, or wear the under your pants (as opposed to pulling them over) to eliminate any extra bulkiness.

Wear Them With Chunky Sneakers

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dad style

Embrace dad style by scrunching up your cozy crew socks and styling them with your go-to pair of bulky sneakers. You might even feel an urge to add khakis to the mix — which, yes, creates a surprisingly cute combo!

Add Socks to a Summer Outfit

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Although there may be nothing nicer than pulling crew socks over cold feet and taking these babies to bed, you'll find they're a must-have for warmer weather, too. If your sundress or shorts outfit feels like it's missing a little something, a pair of bright white socks worn with slip-on shoes can quickly create some interest and provide a little pop.

Try Something Different

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It's possible you've never thought to wear socks with platform heels, but when styled with a mini skirt or tiny dress, the pairing is playful and very retro.