Just a few years ago, wearing socks with clogs or sandals was considered a fashion faux pas. Today, it's a confident style choice, seen as much on the street as in magazines. Done well, it's comfortable, warm and very stylish all at once. Here's how to get it right.
The 3 golden rules
- A quality sock in a natural fibre rather than a sports sock.
- A deliberate colour: tone on tone for subtlety, contrast for a fashion statement.
- A sock that shows: mid-calf or ribbed, it's part of the outfit.
Why it works
A clog shows the ankle and part of the foot, so the sock becomes a visible element of the outfit, just like a scarf or a piece of jewellery. It's also the simplest way to keep wearing your favourite clogs when the temperature drops.
Choosing the right sock
The material
Wool, ribbed cotton, cashmere or a wool-silk blend: go for natural, slightly thick materials. They look better, keep you warmer and breathe better than a thin synthetic sock.
The colour
Tone on tone: a taupe sock with a taupe clog, camel with camel. It's the most elegant option and lengthens the leg. Cream or off-white: the safe bet that goes with every clog colour. Contrast: burgundy, forest green or mustard with a brown or black clog, for a more fashion-forward look.
The height
Mid-calf socks, slightly scrunched, look best with clogs. Avoid invisible trainer socks, which look like a forgotten sock.
What to wear with clogs and socks?
- Straight or flared jeans that stop at the ankle, to show off the sock.
- A midi skirt in corduroy or wool, with cream ribbed socks.
- Wide-leg suit trousers, for a chic, relaxed contrast.
- Loungewear: knitted joggers, a big jumper, and you're done.
A clog with an adjustable buckle like the Sienna clog is perfect for this: just loosen the buckle slightly to make room for a thick sock. In the depths of winter, the Bormio lined clog can also be worn with a thin sock for even more warmth.
Mistakes to avoid
- A sports sock with a big logo.
- A worn, bobbly or holey sock: it shows.
- Too many patterns at once between the sock, the trousers and the top.
- A clog that's too tight and squeezes a thick sock: remember to adjust the buckle or go up a size.
What about men?
The rule is the same: plain socks in wool or thick cotton, in understated tones (heather grey, navy, ecru, khaki). With chinos and a black or brown clog, the look is relaxed without being sloppy.
Which socks with which clog: quick table
| Sock | When | Works best with |
|---|---|---|
| Fine ribbed cotton | Spring, autumn, office | Sienna clog or Varenna loafer mule |
| Chunky wool | Winter, weekends | Bormio lined mule |
| Bright or patterned | To liven up a neutral outfit | Black, taupe or camel clogs |
| Sheer or opaque tights | With a skirt or dress | Closed-toe clogs |
| White sports sock | Casual looks only | Sandals rather than clogs |
Frequently asked questions
Is it OK to wear socks with clogs?
Yes, it's even become a lasting trend. The secret is to choose a quality sock and a colour that suits the outfit.
Which socks to wear with clogs in winter?
Wool or thick ribbed cotton socks, mid-calf height, in a shade close to the clog or in cream.
Should you go up a size to wear thick socks?
With a buckled clog, it's often enough to loosen it. If you're between two sizes, go up one. See our article what size to choose.
What socks look best with clogs?
Mid-calf socks in ribbed cotton or wool, in a colour that either matches the clog (tone on tone) or contrasts clearly with it.
Can you wear tights with clogs?
Yes: opaque tights with a skirt and closed-toe clogs is a classic autumn and winter look.
Which socks with suede or velvet clogs?
Matt natural fibres (cotton, wool) go best with the soft texture of suede or vegan velvet; avoid shiny synthetics.
Read also
- How to wear clogs in autumn and winter
- Vegan suede, microsuede, suede: what's the difference?
- How to choose suede clogs
Seven colours of vegan suede clogs to match all your socks: discover All our styles.
