The arrival of any new year inevitably brings a wave of contemplation. But this time, rather than pondering personal growth or life lessons, my thoughts are decidedly style-related. Of course, I can look to social media for inspiration on this topic, but I also find Google to be an unmatched source for finding out what’s currently trending. And this week, after digging into some data, I found that searches on the platform for footwear styles had increased by 300% week over week since mid-2010. What shoe could that be? Why, the humble sock boot!
In my opinion, no winter shoe The sock rivals the smoothness of the boot. Clinging firmly to the ankle and rising beautifully to the calf, its sleek silhouette offers a chic and polished finish that traditional winter boots can’t match.
Harking back to the mid-2010s, back then, sock shoes were a non-negotiable for many millennials. Pioneered by brands like Balenciaga and Vetements, these innovative stretch-knit designs reimagined shoes as we knew them, offering a minimalist yet attractive alternative to clunky counterparts. Their streamlined silhouettes made them a natural match skinny jeansMini skirts, and huge jumpers that defined the aesthetic of the era. In no time, the trend reached the high street, becoming everyday fashion and cementing itself as the go-to shoe for discerning twenty-somethings.
Fast forward to 2025, and sock boots are making a triumphant return — but this time, they’re looking fresher, sleeker, and more versatile than ever. Today’s iterations are compelling in a different way, with updated designs that feel thoroughly modern while paying homage to their roots — think angular heels and even flat iterations. However, the most significant evolution lies in how they are being styled. Gone are the days of pairing sock boots exclusively with spray-on jeans. Instead, this season’s fashion set is opting for looser silhouettes — think baggy denim, long skirts and wide-leg trousers — making this trend feel totally new again.
Are you curious about trying them for yourself? Read on to learn our edit of the best sock boots to buy right now.
Shop our edit of the best sock boots:
Hurry up! These are on the way to be sold.
Improvement
Rosina Ankle Boot
These also come in three other colors.
le monde beryl
Luna Leather Ankle Boots
These ultra-sleek shoes will add a polished element to your everyday style.
Mango
square toe leather ankle boots
Add a light pop of color to your winter wardrobe.
and other stories
Stretch-Leather Ankle Boots
These come in both leather and suede styles.
Style with a maxi dress or wear with your favorite jeans.
Trust me—these won’t be in stock for long.
away from
this boot is black leather
Square toe shoes are in trend this season.
Improvement
Peyton Stretch Bootie
I think sock boots will be one of the major trends this season.
