This "Ugly" Shoe Trend Has Made a Comeback Since 2016—But It's Improved This Time

      Imagine this: It's 2016, and brands such as Vetements and Balenciaga are leading the charge in the hottest shoe trend, with Kim Kardashian showcasing a pair that complements everything from blazer dresses to sweatpants. This was the era of sock boots, and rocking a form-fitting ankle-high pair with virtually any outfit was the height of fashion. For those millennials who experienced the mid-2010s, the thought of sporting sock boots again is quite polarizing—some view it with nostalgia while others feel a twinge of dread. So, when I mention their comeback for fall and winter 2025, hear me out: the styles making their appearance this season maintain the sleek design of the originals but lack the kitsch factor. Trust me, once you catch a glimpse of the contemporary styles ahead, you might even start to warm up to the idea of adding them back into your wardrobe.

      We noticed hints of their resurgence on the fall/winter 2025 runways, where brands like Fforme, Toteme, and TWP showcased the sleek sock-boot silhouette. Yet, unlike the tall stiletto heels and logo-centric designs that characterized the initial trend, the modern versions featured sleek flat soles and predominantly came in leather, giving the boots a more refined, everyday appeal. The most significant shift in this shoe trend is evident in how they are styled now; instead of being worn with skinny jeans, the runway and street style highlight the boots being paired with relaxed, wide-leg pants, maxi skirts, and sophisticated silk pieces that feel distinctly elevated.

      With sock boots making their return this season, it's essential to explore how they may fit into your wardrobe since, in my view, the new styles certainly warrant a place. Below, discover how fashion insiders are styling flat sock boots, where they appeared on the runways, and check out our top boot selections.

      On the Runway

      At Fforme, flat sock boots debuted in a satin finish, ready for evening wear, and turned out to be an unexpectedly chic pairing with fringed skirts and dresses.

      Toteme's casually minimal design merged leather sock boots with flowing trousers and oversized knits, creating a luxe look that New Yorkers and Londoners will soon embrace for the cooler weather.

      TWP incorporated hyperrealistic knitted sock shoes from Brave Pudding into many looks on its fall 2025 runway. The understated vibe of the ribbed wool flats combined with silk maxi skirts was effortlessly cool.

      On Fashion People

      For those feeling that delicate elements like lace are too sweet, sock boots add a touch of edge while maintaining sophistication.

      Flat sock boots elevate average jeans and ankle boots, giving the current denim trends, like dark washes and barrel fits, a fresh, modern spin.

      I've noticed that many elegantly dressed individuals pair leather sock boots with classic A-line skirts.

      Fashion insiders seem to love the silhouette formed by loose-fitting tailoring and snug sock boots.

      Dear Frances, known for mesh ballet flats, has introduced one of the season's standout styles—a sock boot variation available in both mesh and leather.

      Shop the Trend

      Dear Frances

      Balla Bootie

      Inspired by the brand's viral Balla Mesh Flats, these are sure to sell out quickly.

      Khaite

      Leather Ankle Boots

      The subtle heel and tall calf height are signature elements from Khaite.

      The baby buckle feels just right.

      Dries Van Noten

      Sock Boot

      Brave Pudding

      Hampton Strolls

      An editor-favorite style that has received runway approval from TWP.

      Bared Footwear

      Rook Black Stretch Leather Flat Boots

      The subtle stacked heel makes these easy to wear.

      Le Monde Beryl

      Luna Leather Ankle Boots

      These are already selling out rapidly.

      Sock-like but not overly literal.

      You, you're the one I want.

      Massimo Dutti

      Stretch Leather Wedge Ankle Boots

      This heel shape is exceptional.

      Topshop

      Peri Suede Flat Square Toe Boots

      The cost per wear on these is essentially negligible.

      Vivaia

      Square-Toe Water Repellent Wool Knee-High Boots

      I've only heard fantastic reviews about the comfort of Vivaia shoes.