Photo: Penny Wincer

Once an incongruous pairing, socks and sandals are having a moment in the sunshine. I became a convert during lockdown, when I couldn’t be bothered to change my Socks and ‘Stocks for the daily walk. Soon, the mighty Birkenstock caught on and started selling the two items together. By which point, I was rifling through my sock drawer looking for interesting, hole-free options.

So, last week, on experiencing the first case of Sandal Rub this summer, I knew exactly what to do. Slip into a pair of soft cotton socks to take the pressure off. Like corduroy and retro sportswear, this coupling is a Wes Anderson trope, so geeky it’s cool – and no longer a contentious combination.

Photo: Sarah Brick

It’s a contradiction of sorts; socks are designed to keep feet warm and sandals to do the opposite. But as well as perking up a pared-down outfit, the combination is incredibly comfortable.

Keeping feet clean, blister-free and safeguarding the skin against sunburn. Yep. Socks and sandals have got you covered. How else to sort out chipped nail vanish and cracked heels, until you finally get round to booking a summer pedicure…

Cool combinations

On a style level, socks are a playful way to boost a minimalist look; why not fill that blank space around the ankles with something interesting?

Skirts, dresses, track pants and rolled up jeans all benefit from this cool footwear combination. Dip your toes in (sorry) by colour-matching fine-gauge ankle socks to cork-soled Birkenstock’s (as I’m doing in the second photo). Opt for a post-modern, Accidentally Wes Anderson touch by teaming sporty socks with walking sandals. Make an impact in statement socks and colourful sandals (first photo).

And, for some fancy footwork, choose slinky, silk ribbed or sparkling Lurex socks (Cos and Sezane are good for the latter). Whatever you do, make it look deliberate and considered, and not like you’ve shoved them on to nip out to the shops…

Now, sock it to me:

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STYLE NOTES

First photo: I’m wearing my old Clergerie sale bargain sandals (similar HERE) with the TNMA x Genevieve Sweeney socks.

Second photo: Birkenstock Boston Clogs and Uniqlo socks. Cos jeans and vintage French Workwear Company jacket

SOCKS + SANDALS GRAPHIC

[Left to right – top row]
Socks, Tabio.

Sandals, Dear Frances
Socks, Cos. Sandals, Penelope Chilvers
Socks, Hansel from Basel. Sandals, Russell & Bromley

[Bottom row]
Socks, RosterSox. Sandals, Birkenstock
Socks, Nudie Jeans.

Sandals, Teva.
Socks, Socksss. Sandals, Hoff.

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