What Socks are in Style in 2025?

It’s a new year, and that means refreshing our sock game and keeping up with the latest trends. Younger generations are getting rid of their no-show and ankle socks and opting for something that combines fashion with functionality. 

So, what socks are in style? Keep reading as we show you the top socks for 2025, which promise to not only complement your footwear but also protect your feet. 

What Are The Most Popular Types of Socks in 2025?

In 2025, sock fashion is all about visibility, texture, and personality. Crew-length socks are dominating the scene, often styled high and proud in a variety of colors, from earthy tones like olive and rust to pastel shades like lilac and butter yellow. Slouchy, ribbed, and scrunched socks are also big this year, echoing cozy '80s and '90s aesthetics.

Sustainability is just as important as style. Eco-conscious materials like bamboo, organic cotton, merino wool, and recycled fibers are becoming staples in modern sock drawers. Shoppers are also prioritizing socks that are fashionable, breathable, moisture-wicking, and built to last.

What Socks Are Gen Z Wearing in 2025?

Gen Z is leading the charge on visible socks, especially crew-length styles in fun patterns or pastel shades. They’re pairing them with everything from UGGs to Mary Janes and even sandals, often for a playful contrast.

Are No-Show Socks Out of Style in 2025?

No-show socks are taking a back seat in 2025. More people are embracing visible socks as part of their style identity, especially with the resurgence of vintage and sporty aesthetics.

How to Style Socks with Current Trends

Socks come in all shapes and sizes (e.g., ankle, quarter-length, crew, and calf-high), and each can be styled for different looks. While there’s no hard rule, certain lengths tend to pair better with specific outfits and footwear in 2025. Before you plan your next outfit, review our advice for wearing ankle, quarter-length, crew, and over-the-calf socks:

How to Wear Ankle Socks (Or Better Yet - Tab Socks)

Ankle socks stop just at or slightly above the ankle bone. They’re a top pick for warmer months or minimalist styling, helping to show off statement sneakers or low-cut shoes while keeping feet cool. Tab socks are a variation of ankle socks that play an important role in fashionable athletic wear, ensuring a cool, breezy look with maximum blister protection.

Are Ankle Socks Out of Style in 2025?

If you’re wondering if ankle socks are in style in 2025, the answer is yes and no. Instead of focusing on invisibility like in the past, people who wear ankle socks fashionably tend to do so with some strategic styling. Think bold colors and patterns peeking out from sneakers or loafers.

But Are Tab Socks Out of Style?

Like more conventional ankle socks, tab socks can be quite fashionable with current trends, if you style them correctly. In general, the most fashionable tab socks will have eye-catching patterns or more attention-grabbing colors that peak out just above your footwear. If you’re going to the gym or out on the run, tab socks are an ideal choice over traditional ankle socks, as they look natural in athletic settings and offer more fabric at the back of the heel to prevent chafing and blisters.  

What to Wear With Ankle Socks and Tab Socks in 2025

Ankle socks pair well with both casual and sporty fits. They’re subtle yet expressive when styled with creative patterns or bold hues. So, how can you make them work in 2025?
Men’s Outfit Idea 1: A pair of cuffed joggers, a graphic tee, retro sneakers, and patterned ankle socks that peak out just above your sneakers.
Men’s Outfit Idea 2: Mid-thigh shorts, lightweight sweater, sleek low-top sneakers, and neutral-tone ankle socks.
Women’s Outfit Idea 1: A tennis skirt, cropped sweatshirt, classic low-top trainers, and pastel ankle socks.
Women’s Outfit Idea 2: High-waisted linen shorts, a fitted tank top, slip-on loafers, and neutral-tone ankle socks.

What Footwear Pairs with Ankle Socks?

In 2025, ankle socks are being paired with minimalist sneakers, loafers, and even slip-on mules for a low-profile but intentional vibe. The key is clean lines and colors that pop just above the shoe.

2. How to Wear Quarter-Length Socks

Quarter-length socks extend around five inches above the ankle, giving slightly more coverage without reaching mid-calf. 

Are Quarter-Length Socks Out of Fashion?

While no-show and ankle socks are less popular in 2025, quarter-length socks are in fashion. Due to their length, they’re a perfect in-between when you want to wear mid-top shoes or other footwear that reaches just above the ankle but don’t want to make your socks a centerpiece of your outfit. 

What Should You Wear With Quarter-Length Socks in 2025?

Men’s Outfit Idea 1: Athletic shorts, performance t-shirt, running shoes, and moisture-wicking quarter socks for a stylish (and comfortable!) trip to the gym.
Men’s Outfit Idea 2: Rolled chinos, button-down shirt, boat shoes, and neutral-toned quarter socks.
Women’s Outfit Idea 1: Denim shorts, oversized tee, platform sneakers, and ribbed quarter socks.
Women’s Outfit Idea 2: Midi dress, cropped jacket, low-top trainers, and quarter socks in a color that complements the dress.

What Footwear Pairs With Quarter-Length Socks?

Quarter socks work well with trainers, hiking shoes, mid-top sneakers, or low-cut boots, especially when layered with athleisure or streetwear-inspired outfits.

3. How to Wear Crew Socks

Crew socks typically hit mid-calf and are often styled with chunky sneakers, loafers, or sandals. Ribbed textures and bold patterns are key.

Are Crew Socks Out of Fashion in 2025?

Crew socks are absolutely in style in 2025. They’re the most in-demand length right now, with fashion-forward stylists opting to show them off with everything from casual outfits to dressier looks.

What Should You Wear With Crew Socks in 2025?

Men’s Outfit Idea 1: Baggy jeans, oversized hoodie, and vintage-style sneakers with white crew socks.
Men’s Outfit Idea 2: Slim slacks, tucked-in tee, leather loafers, and patterned crew socks.
Women’s Outfit Idea 1: Pleated skirt, fitted tee, and sandals with scrunched crew socks.
Women’s Outfit Idea 2: Casual romper, denim jacket, and platform sneakers with crew socks.

What Footwear Pairs With Crew Socks?

Crew socks are being styled with chunky sneakers, clogs, and heels in 2025. Streetwear brands and influencers alike are highlighting them as the new default for sneaker styling.

4. How to Wear Calf Socks

Calf socks extend to the knee and are often worn scrunched for a slouchy effect. While once reserved for athletes, they’re now making appearances in editorial fashion and everyday wear.

Are Over-the-Calf Socks in Style in 2025?

Like crew socks, over-the-calf socks are very much in style in 2025. Their increased length makes them a more flashy choice that pairs well with skirts, shorts, and sweater dresses.

What Should You Wear With Calf Socks in 2025?

Men’s Outfit Idea 1: Cargo shorts, compression tee, and running shoes with calf socks.
Men’s Outfit Idea 2: Track pants, bomber jacket, and slides with slouched calf socks.
Women’s Outfit Idea 1: Short flared skirt, oversized knit sweater, boots, and vibrant calf socks.
Women’s Outfit Idea 2: Biker shorts, crop top, and high-top sneakers with ruffled calf socks.

What Footwear Pairs With Calf Socks?

Calf socks pair great with boots, high-top sneakers, and even fashion-forward sandals. The contrast in volume between the socks and shoes adds dimension to any outfit.

5 Tips for Styling Socks in 2025

If you’d like some quick and easy sock styling tips to follow, review our top guidelines for wearing socks in 2025:

1. Stick to longer lengths (even with shorts): Since crew-length and calf socks are in style in 2025, you’ll want to look for socks with more height to them. Longer socks are not only fashionable but functional, offering warmth and personality while keeping up with the athleisure and streetwear movements. If you’re wearing shorts, you’ll still want to stick to crew or calf socks, as they help balance proportions and keep your outfit on-trend. For maximum functionality and style, go with specialty anti-blister socks to prevent blisters.
   
2. Vary your color choice: Wondering what colors are most fashionable for socks in 2025? Earth tones like sage, rust, and mustard are trending alongside playful pastels like lilac and peach. Shimmery metallics and bold patterns are also popular for more daring looks.
   
3. Pair thigh-high socks with oversized clothes: Thigh-high socks are having a quiet resurgence, especially in editorial and avant-garde styling. Pair them with oversized shirts, sweater dresses, or shorts and heeled boots for a dramatic, confident look.
4. Wear crew socks with sneakers: In 2025, the best socks to wear with sneakers are crew socks. Their mid-calf height, ribbed texture, and variety of patterns make them ideal for both fashion and function. Crew socks support your ankle, wick away moisture, and provide visual contrast against chunky or retro sneaker silhouettes. Match your crew socks to a color in your sneakers or outfit for a cohesive, street-ready vibe. Or go the contrast route and let a bold pair of crew socks be the standout piece.
   
5. Select socks made from sustainable materials: If you want to reduce your environmental impact while still looking your best, go with socks made from sustainable materials. For instance, socks made with bamboo, organic cotton, Merino wool, and recycled polyester are all sustainable choices. These materials are eco-friendly while also offering performance benefits like moisture-wicking and breathability.

Wrightsock: Anti-Blister Socks to Match 2025’s Trends

If you’re ready to give longer pairs of socks a shot in 2025, Wrightsock has you covered. Our anti-blister double-layer socks come in multiple sizes, lengths, and styles to ensure you can find the right pair for your personal aesthetic and outfits without sacrificing comfort. With a blister-free guarantee, all of our double-layer socks provide top-tier blister protection, and we’re proud to use sustainable materials like Merino wool and recycled polyester in our socks for greater eco-friendliness. 
Check out our selection of single-layer and double-layer socks in multiple styles and heights today!