Socks in the summer. Specifically, trainer socks in the summer. How to wear them without feeling like you are gratuitously flashing some ankle? Are cotton trainer socks just for casual shorts looks, or can they be more versatile? And when should you avoid them in favour of full-length socks?
We look at how to wear trainer socks in the summer and talk to stylist Eero Böök, the co-founder of Kintsugi Agency, about creating stylish summer looks.
Socks and summer can be a bit of a headache style-wise. It can be hard to know what style of sock to reach for. When it comes to trainer socks, it is safe to say that when you are wearing shorts and trainers/sneakers, this sock style is typically your best friend. “This is especially true when you are wearing low sneakers (like Converse, Vejas or Loci) or you don’t want the socks to steal the show,” says Böök. Mid-calf pairs can easily look a bit too heavy with shorts or minimalistic sneakers. With low trainers like Converses, deck shoes or espadrilles, you may want to try no-show socks like London Sock Company’s Simply Invisible socks. These pairs let your shoes do the talking.
Great question. For the most part, ankle socks and trainer socks are ways of describing the same thing. Trainer socks and ankle socks sit on or just under the ankle, providing a more discreet sock to wear with shorts and cropped trousers, in particular. London Sock Company’s Simply Trainer socks are designed to sit comfortable on the ankle and tuck neatly into your trainers, while still showing a subtle dash of colour. For more energetic activities, our organic cotton Simply Active ankle sock sits similarly on the ankle and in your shoe, but has some special performance features, such as a comfort top, breathable mesh and arch support.
“To be honest, the great thing about trainer socks is that it’s a sock style that can easily suit all trends,” says Böök. “You could wear these socks with cropped length trousers. Think white with a loose or baggy fit – really on trend and easy to wear. A little dash of colour from one of the Simply Trainer socks will create a more ‘styled’ look with white or off-white. The nautical trend is also a classic and will look great with the beautiful Midnight Blue Simply Trainer socks. Try a Breton striped long-sleeve tee or a chunky knit jumper with some kitsch seaside patterns like anchors or boats. Pair with cropped, smart trousers and simple trainers.”
For shorts, you can go for something neutral and classic – cotton twill straight leg shorts in cream, for example – and a polished but casual knit polo. Ebony Black Simply Trainer socks are a really sleek, understated shade of trainer sock to wear with shorts. And they look great pairs with white trainers, like these from Loci
“If you’re wearing a traditional, full suit, then I would go stick a sock that sits higher, especially if there is a dress code like ‘black tie’,” says Böök. “Also with high-top shoes – Nike Jordans, for example, need to be styled with sock length at mid-calf in my opinion.” For a classic, casual mid-calf sock for your high-tops, try Simply Active crews in Cotton White or for a selection of socks with some colour pop, Simply Sartorial and its 34 colourways is the answer.
Summer tailoring is the key. The super-easy way is to buy the shorts and the blazer as a set, this way the fabrics and colour are exactly the same, which makes it all feel more put together. Go for natural and breathable fabrics. For socks in this case, “go big or go home” and pick a colour that really pops out and makes a statement, like Pink or Olde Turquoise.
Trainer socks and on-trend 5-inch shorts are an unbeatable dream team. But shorts should always be a few inches above the knee ideally. “Scroll through TikTok you will see guys struggling with what kind of socks to wear with these shorts,” says Böök. “Well, now the struggle is over. Simply Trainer socks are a simple way to elevate your shorts in the summer.”
It depends on the outfit and the occasion, but with a clean white seasonal look, I would choose a white oversized double breasted blazer paired with loose-fit smart trousers with Simply Trainer socks in Lavender as the finishing touch for a subtle but playful statement.
Summer calls for your feet to be at their best. Need some hints? Just ask celebrity podiatrist Ghazaleh Rahimi Khoub.
For more tips, check out our interview with Ghazaleh on caring for your feet in summer.
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