Sock-and-awe: Socks becoming trendier, more stylish

There was a time when the modishness of socks was quite underrated. Worn inside the shoes and oftentimes concealed under stylish trousers or long skirts, these pieces of hosiery were worn mostly for their hygienic function. But times are a-changing and what previously seemed stuck playing in the background are gradually getting the fashion points they deserve.

Take the recently concluded Fashion Weeks for example. The popularity of midi skirts and cropped pants, and the change in the way strappy sandals were worn in the catwalks have pushed socks toward the spotlight. No longer are socks trapped in plain and dull colors. This increased exposure has led designers to incorporate vivid hues and eye-catching patterns in these pieces of accessories. Even Pinterest has recorded a rise in pins of socks in colorful patterns.

And suppliers and manufacturers seem to follow suit. A quick search on GlobalSources.com, for instance, yields a range of chic socks in various styles, colors and designs. These suit men, women and children for different ages and tastes.

We gathered a list of trends from various fashion websites that are expected to be hot in coming months and seasons, and here’s what we got.

Colorful, playful designs
Move over boring plains, socks with bold prints and loud colors are growing in popularity. Such pieces have become so popular that they received about 250 percent more searches and pins in social media website Pinterest according to its recent survey.

See-through
The Fashion Week runways were replete with sheer socks. These went well with strappy high heels, and even with closed pumps and boots.

Paired with heels, sandals
Another Fashion Week trend that turned heads, sandals meant to expose the feet were worn with socks. Several models hit the catwalks wearing socks with leather pumps and boots.

Dad socksA street style staple that goes perfectly with a pair comfy sneakers, dad socks were also represented in the Fashion Week runways. Looking all sporty and a bit crinkled, this laid-back look ishere to stay.

Hygienic features
Let's not forget the reason why socks were made in the first place. Many socks adopt fabrics that are breathable, quick-drying, moisture-wicking and anti-bacterial to keep the feet healthy. Recent innovations include the use of bamboo charcoal, which is said to have deodorizing property, and copper fiber that can improve blood circulation.