Summer is winding down and it feels like the whole world (read: Northern Hemisphere) is enjoying the last few weeks of warm weather before it's time to start layering up.
And while finding shorts and a tee that match or a pair of ultra-breathable sneakers is hugely important in the summer (or any time, really), there’s one combination of clothing you shouldn’t be sleeping on this year: socks with sandals.
The oft-ridiculed footwear style has taken a turn over the past few seasons, becoming an absolute must-have, and 2023 is no different. From the fattest flip-flops imaginable to Birkenstock's most iconic sandals hitting middle-age, we're celebrating freeing the toe more than ever.
Going open-toe is a prerequisite in the hotter months of the year, however, pairing socks with sandals gives you a further level of flexibility — both aesthetically and functionally. If you’re anything like me, you’ll be spending every free minute this summer outside, which means you’ll often be out all day and into the evening. Summer and fall nights can get quite cool. Wearing socks with sandals can help combat that.
Though the style has been long considered a fashion faux-pas and the trademark “German on vacation” look, wearing socks with sandals — when styled right — opens a myriad of opportunities, while offering increased comfort and warmth. To prove that the style is here to stay, we’ve rounded up the best sandals with socks combinations.
Browse the best socks with sandals in 2023 below.
Marni Mules and Stray Rats Socks
Kicking off with a more low-key pairing to ease you into the socks and sandals life, these minimal Marni mules come crafted from calf leather and have been paired with grey socks from American streetwear label Stray Rats.
Birkenstock Sandals and Jacquemus Socks
One of Birkenstock's newer models, the Kyoto Sandal comes with the brand's signature comfort but a more sporty look than its other models. Plus, this brown colorway matches perfectly with Jacquemus' gradient socks.
MCM x Crocs and Marni Check Socks
Rarely does a week go by without a new Crocs collaboration and luxury label MCM has been one of its more regular collaborators. This version of its classic clog comes with a mini version of MCM's belt bag strapped to the top.
Suicoke Sandals and Collina Strada Socks
Japanese label Suicoke is a master in crafting high-quality sandals, so this list wouldn't be complete with a pair from the brand. We've paired its popular Moto sandal in all-black with Collina Strada's colorful star burst socks.
Our Legacy Mules and Needles Socks
Think you can't dress up and wear socks and sandals? Think again. These leather slip-on mules from Our Legacy and argyle socks from Needles make for a more traditional, formal look.
Jean Paul Gaultier x Melissa Sandals and Wacko Maria Socks
Going from a traditional pairing straight to an unconventional one, these Jean Paul Gaultier sandals with punk-inspired spikes and blue leopard print socks are sure to turn some heads.
Merrell Sandals and Neu York Socks
A sandal that looks as though it's come from the future, we've paired Merrell's Hydro Moc with socks that honor Neu York — our multi-media celebration of the Big Apple.
CAMPERLAB Sandal and Ami de Cœur Socks
Doubling down on green hues, these distressed CAMPERLAB sandals and AMI socks make for a great pairing.
Dries Van Noten Sandals and Anderson & Sheppard Socks
It's tempting to always pair black sandals, such as this chunky Dries Van Noten pair, with a black pair of socks but sometimes you can't always play it safe.
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