The ‘Sock’ Wave Phenomenon

Sock shoes, as the name suggests, are footwear that resemble socks. The controversial shoes have unexpectedly become a favorite among comfort-chic celebrities like Rihanna and Matty Healy.

The sight of what appears to be bare socks hitting the pavement is startling, yet it has somehow emerged as the epitome of minimalist chic. Commenting on this unique trend, Amy Smilovic, the founder and creative director of the luxury womenswear brand Tibi, remarked, “It gives good strangeness.”

In her interview with The Post, Smilovic highlighted how the unconventional and somewhat eccentric nature of sock shoes adds an intriguing and unique element to fashion. The unexpected whisk of simplicity and quirkiness aligns with the footwear’s ethos, celebrating the idea that fashion can be both relaxed and avant-garde.

Comfort with minimalist

“Sock shoes are all about keeping it comfy and simple,” says Riya Jain, a luxury fashion creator adding, “Designed with features that make a big difference, they combine comfort with minimalist style effortlessly, whether you’re chilling out or staying active.”

Keeping your socks from slipping is easier than you might think! “Start by making sure they fit snugly, or add elastic bands for extra support. Silicone heel grips and non-slip soles are excellent options to keep them securely in place. If you need a bit more security, try using double-sided fashion tape inside the shoes or wearing socks with extra grip. These simple tricks will ensure your socks stay comfy and stable throughout the day, no matter where your adventures take you,” explains Riya.

A SNUG FIT

Fashion content creator Rupali Hasija advised finding a snug fit for optimal comfort and shared her preference for wearing sock shoes during workouts. “I believe the unique design of these shoes caters to comfort-seeking individuals who struggle to fit into standard shoe sizes, as the sock shoes conform to the contours of your feet,” she says adding, “It provides phenomenal grip and support for feet, whether it’s a flat or heeled shoe.”

She emphasises, “Finding the best fit is the key. The more fitted the shoe, the better comfort it offers, so don’t go a size up, which we tend to do for our normal shoes. Sock shoes should hug your feet in all the right places.”

Go-to shoe

Highlighting their versatility, Hasija says, “I love wearing mine for my workouts as they provide a phenomenal grip and comfort, but I would love to try the ones with heels to see how much comfort they can give to my feet.”

To enhance comfort and minimalism, she suggests, “If they mimic a normal shoe shape a bit more and are made to look a bit more sleek, it will take the look to a whole new level.

“They’re go-to shoes for casual walks, errands, and travel because they’re lightweight and breathable. Yoga, Pilates, and light gym workouts are more comfortable in sock shoes thanks to their flexibility and ground feel. They are ideal for driving or recovering after a workout. Running, hiking, and other activities with quick changes in direction, as well as fancy events, all require the support and protection of conventional shoes,” says Ravindra Bhatia, fashion designer and founder of Egoss. Thin, flexible soles facilitate natural movement. “A spacious toe box allows your toes to spread naturally, improving balance. Some designs feature minimalist lacing for adjustability, while others are slip-on for maximum ease. The construction, achieved with thin soles, stretchy materials ensures fatigue-free wear,” explains Ravindra.