Crew Socks Are Gen-Z's Sock of Choice—Here's How to Style Them

Ask any member of Gen-Z and they’ll be quick to tell you that nothing is quite as much of a giveaway of the millennial demographic as no-show socks. The invisible and ankle socks of yore have gone the way of the skinny jean, replaced by crew socks. Now, it’s not only about being able to see your socks, but also making them a key part of your outfit. “Socks are an easy accessory that incorporate form and function. They keep your legs warm, but also add a finishing detail to your outfit choice, which is why we’re seeing so many fashion brands and celebrities incorporating crew socks into their daily looks,” explains David Brazeau, a fashion expert and director of merchandising at Gildan. Their versatility is another huge reason behind the popularity boom. No matter what you pair them with, crew socks elevate and add flair to your ensemble, adds stylist Catherine Bibeau. 

The key to ensuring a flattering end result? Make sure the socks don’t hit too high up the shin and aren’t slouchy; you should pick socks that fit your foot properly so that they stay in place, says Bibeau. To the point of length, Brazeau adds that if you’re on the shorter side, you can look for ‘short crew’ or ‘half calf’ styles: “These are taller than an ankle sock but slightly shorter than a standard crew and will help create more of a balanced look,” he notes. Feel free to play with colors and patterns, but, when in doubt, neutral colors are classic and timeless, particularly pure white, he adds. Ready to try the trend? Here, four different ways to style crew socks.

Athleisure Vibes

Channel 1990s Princess Diana energy by pairing crew socks and sneakers with biker shorts and an oversized sweatshirt, suggests Brazeau. Comfortable (and practical) enough for running errands or chasing after kids, but the crew socks still make the overall look feel more intentional and put together.

Everyday Casual

Crew socks can easily elevate a standard  jeans and T-shirt pairing. Bibeau advises going for a cropped jean; the shorter length allows the crew socks to peek out. Add a simple T-shirt or sweater on top along with classic white sneakers and you have a look that’s perfect for a multitude of occasions. 

Office Ready

Crew socks are completely office-friendly. “Pair crew socks with loafers, tailored trousers, and blouse or light sweater for a polished-yet-comfortable office look that’s also very chic,” says Bibeau. The other benefit of wearing crew socks with loafers in this type of setting? They’ll help keep your ankles warm in a chilly office, notes Brazeau. 

Evening Appropriate 

Crew socks for date night? Yep. According to Bibeau, adding crew socks to a classic slip dress and heels combo takes the look to the next level. More specifically, she says a kitten heel is ideal in this scenario, and lends the right proportion to the sock. Just make sure to choose a crew sock that’s made of a thinner material, rather than one that’s thicker and more athletic-looking.