This "Ugly" Shoe Trend Has Made a Comeback from 2016—And It's Improved This Time.

      Imagine this: It’s 2016, and brands such as Vetements and Balenciaga are spearheading the most popular shoe trend, while Kim Kardashian pairs them with everything from blazer dresses to sweatpants. This was the sock boot era, where nothing was more stylish than slipping into a snug ankle-high style with any outfit. For millennials who experienced the mid-2010s, the prospect of wearing sock boots again is quite polarizing—some feel nostalgic, while others are filled with trepidation. So, when I mention that they are making a comeback for the fall and winter of 2025, hear me out: the styles debuting this season retain the sleekness of the originals but without any of the kitsch. I assure you, once you see the updated designs, you may even consider welcoming them back into your wardrobe.

      Hints of this revival appeared on the runways for fall/winter 2025, featuring brands like Fforme, Toteme, and TWP, which showcased the streamlined sock-boot silhouette. However, these contemporary versions swapped the towering stiletto heels and prominent logos of the first wave for chic flat-sole designs primarily crafted in leather, giving the boots a more refined and everyday quality. The most notable evolution in this shoe trend is in the styling. Instead of being worn with skinny jeans, we now see the boots paired with relaxed, wide-leg trousers, maxi skirts, and sophisticated silk pieces that convey a more elevated sense of fashion.

      With sock boots re-emerging this season, it’s time to explore how they can fit into your wardrobe because, in my opinion, the new iterations certainly merit attention. Ahead, discover how fashion insiders are styling flat sock boots, their runway appearances, and shop our top boot selections.

      **On the Runway**

      At Fforme, flat sock boots made their entrance in a sophisticated satin finish, surprisingly pairing nicely with fringed skirts and dresses.

      Toteme showcased their minimal aesthetic by combining leather sock boots with easy, oversize knits and relaxed, flowing trousers, creating a luxurious look perfect for colder weather in New York and London.

      TWP featured hyperrealistic knitted sock shoes from Brave Pudding on their fall 2025 runway, pairing them with ribbed wool flats and silk maxi skirts for an understated yet stylish combination.

      **On Fashion Insiders**

      When incorporating delicate elements like lace, sock boots provide a touch of edge while maintaining sophistication.

      The flat sock boots effortlessly elevate contemporary denim trends, such as dark rinses and barrel cuts.

      I've observed a recurring pattern among the most stylish individuals: they often wear leather sock boots with prim A-line skirts.

      Fashion enthusiasts are loving the silhouette that combines billowy tailoring with fitted sock boots.

      Dear Frances, known for mesh ballet flats, has created one of the standout styles of the season—an ankle-boot version available in both mesh and leather.

      **Shop the Trend**

      - **Dear Frances**: Balla Bootie - Based on their popular Balla Mesh Flats, these are likely to sell out quickly.

      - **Khaite**: Leather Ankle Boots - The subtle heel and tall calf height showcase Khaite’s excellence.

      - **Dries Van Noten**: Sock Boot

      - **Brave Pudding**: Hampton Strolls - An editor favorite confirmed by TWP.

      - **Bared Footwear**: Rook Black Stretch Leather Flat Boots - The subtle stacked heel enhances their wearability.

      - **Le Monde Beryl**: Luna Leather Ankle Boots - No surprise that these are already selling fast.

      - **Massimo Dutti**: Stretch Leather Wedge Ankle Boots - Featuring a unique heel shape.

      - **Topshop**: Peri Suede Flat Square Toe Boots - A cost-per-wear that’s practically negligible.

      - **Vivaia**: Square-Toe Water Repellent Wool Knee-High Boots - Rave reviews have poured in about the comfort of Vivaia footwear.