How to Style Up Your Party Shoes - for Sandra Hagelstam
Step up your party look with these ultra-glam styling tricks – for Vogue’s Sandra Hagelstam
Socks and heels: individually harmless, together, one of the most divisive combinations in fashion. But how can something as benign as a sock be so polarising? People tend to fall into two camps when it comes to hosiery and heels: those who do and those who don’t. If, for you, socks and sandals represent fashion kryptonite, let us persuade you. This could be the year you fall in love (with a pair of sheer pink pop socks, anyway).
Black opaques aside, things start to get controversial when you leave the safe harbour of a standard denier behind. Despite the appeal of a lurex sock, they’re tricky terrain to negotiate (particularly in a pair of stilettoes). Ignore the dad-dressing associations and take your cues from the cool-girls using socks and tights to add an edge to feminine dresses and killer heels. One of the easiest ways to revitalise an old pair of shoes or get some winter wear out of summer sandals, they give a girl scope – especially when there isn’t time for a pedicure.
We’re here to make the case for high-octane hosiery. The million-denier question: how to wear it? From glittery ankle socks and sheer pop socks to delicate lace tights, here’s our guide to rocking the look.
SHEER JOY
With a little stylistic consideration, sheer socks and heels will lend your outfit a dose of high-fashion edge. A good entry-level style if you’re new to the game, the trick is to select the right colour. By co-ordinating your socks with at least one other piece in your outfit, they look intentional and serve a clear purpose within the context of your look. Wear them like you mean it.
TIGHT CLUB
Last season saw a rise in the popularity of statement tights, from colour block to logo and lace – thanks in large part to Gucci’s coveted GG intarsia fish nets. Wear them with a thigh-skimming mini and open-toe sandals to show off as much leg as designer hosiery, or go bold and matchy-matchy by pairing jewel-toned tights with jewel-toned pumps. A playful and cost-effective way of indulging in a sartorial pick-me-up after Christmas.
THICK AND FAST
From plush jacquard to chunky cable knits, thicker socks have been invited to the party this season. Think of it as a game of textures. Layer thick-knit ivory hiking socks under black leather cage heels and velvet platforms, or look to Miu Miu’s signature Mary Janes to partner with your favourite pair of knee highs. Is your New Year’s resolution to be more active? Dress with your best intentions in mind by teaming sport socks with sky-high stilettoes. This look is all about contrasts, so the more decadent the shoes the better. The gym can wait.
LOGO MANIA
Swear your allegiance to the designers that be by pairing your party shoes with a logo. When the gold leather two-piece is out of budget, this is the most affordable way to channel a runway look. Below-the-knee fashion pedigree doesn’t come much more iconic than Prada’s logo socks. Wear with short hem-lines and a side of hedonism.