My dad has been wearing crew socks with sneakers since I was in diapers, so imagine his surprise when I told him his staple garment had recently gone viral on TikTok. Sporting these socks have become super popular and a great way to add character to any outfit, as they come in a plethora of patterns and hues.
Whether you're hiking with friends or attending a backyard barbeque, a pair of stylish crew socks will surely spruce up your wardrobe. We spoke with multiple fashion stylists to give us the lowdown on this new sock trend and also included a few editor-tested favorites as well.
Why are crew socks trending? | Best materials for crew socks | How to style crew socks | Expert-recommended crew socks | Editor-loved crew socks | How we chose | Meet the experts
Why are crew socks trending?
With capris and jelly sandals continuing to hit the streets of New York City, it's no surprise that yet another nostalgic trend is having a moment this season. "Like everything in fashion, trends are cyclical, it was only a matter of time before the youthful generation got a hold of these," explains Christina Stein, a personal stylist and CEO of Style by Christina.
"I think socks can add a little bit of character to an outfit, it’s another accessory that we can use to add layers to an outfit and therefore make it a tad more interesting," says Stein.
Jessica Cadmus, a wardrobe stylist at Wardrobe Whisperer, and founder of Rogue Paq Accessories, is also not surprised that crew socks are becoming popular again. "The simple answer is that it’s their turn," says Cadmus. "We haven’t had a sock trend in quite a long time and socks are a fun accessory which can show personality and add a new detail to an outfit."
"The rise of athleisure fashion has also contributed to their popularity, as they pair well with sneakers and casual outfits," explains fashion stylist and costume designer, Karis Battle.
What are the best materials for crew socks?
When it comes to finding comfortable, lightweight socks, you will firstly want to consider the material. "This is kind of an over all sock rule, but you definitely want fabrics that breathe and are more durable. Stick to nylon and acrylic," says Stein.
"For crew socks, I recommend materials like cotton, merino wool, and blends that include spandex or elastane," suggests Battle. "Cotton provides breathability and softness, merino wool offers excellent moisture-wicking and temperature regulation, and a bit of spandex adds stretch for a comfortable fit," she explains.
Cadmus adds that natural materials are the best because they are the most breathable. "I like cotton, linen, or silk in warmer temps and wool in colder temps," she shares.
How to style crew socks
When it comes to styling your crew socks, Cadmus shares three outfit ideas that will have you looking like a runway model or influencer:
- Wear with strappy sandals and a maxi skirt or dress.
- Wear with chunky loafers and cropped flared trousers.
- Wear with sneakers and athletic shorts or pants and an oversized hoodie or jacket.
Battle agrees that crew socks can be worn with everything from sneakers and jeans to skirts and boots. "Experiment with different colors and patterns to add a fun element to your outfit," suggests Battle.
Expert-recommended crew socks
Budget-friendly and breathable: Calzedonia Ribbed Fretwork Short Socks
- Great fit
- Very comfortable
- Machine wash cold
Colorways: Four | Sizes: One Size | Materials: Cotton, polyamide
Cadmus is a big fan of these short socks from Calzedonia as they are extremely breathable and comfortable. These cotton-blend socks are her top choice to wear with sandals or chunky loafers. These comfy socks come in four unique hues, so you can match with your favorite pair of shoes.
Affordable and fashionable: Old Navy Quarter Crew Socks
- Comfortable
- Stretchy
- Comes in a variety of patterns
- Material may be thin
Colorways: 11 | Sizes: One size | Materials: Polyester, cotton, spandex
Samantha Brown, a New York-based celebrity stylist and author of "Dressing Up: Pip’s Truly Fashionable Tale", calls these socks from Old Navy "a steal!" She says, "They are fashionable, comfortable and great for everyday use," says Brown. They also come in a variety of fun patterns, including leopard, tossed hearts and rainbow skies.
"Playful and vibrant": Happy Socks Big Dot Sock
- Come in a variety of colors
- May not go with everything
Colorways: 32 | Sizes: 36-46 | Materials: Cotton, polyamide, elastane
"These socks are a playful and vibrant choice with colorful polka dots," says Battle. "They add a fun pop of color to any outfit and are made from a comfortable and durable cotton blend. Perfect for adding a touch of whimsy to your wardrobe!" she suggests.
Sporty and comfy: Skims Sport Crew Sock
- Comfortable
- True to size
- Limited-edition colors
Colorways: Seven | Sizes: 6+, 8+ | Materials: Cotton, polyamide, elastic
Brown also recommends these stylish crew socks from Skims. She loves that they come in many colors, including limited edition snow and ruby. These socks go great with an oversized sweatshirt, bike shorts and sneakers.
Retro and colorful: DSG 6-Pack Team Crew Socks
- Comes in a variety of colors
- Only comes in M and L sizes
Colorways: Two | Sizes: M-L
Stein says if you're going to wear crew socks, you might as well commit to a vintage option. She calls this set "really fun because the stripes come in different colors, meaning more outfit options." Complete the look with a pair of running shorts or a crossbody bag and you're ready to hit the mall.
Classic with some slouch: Fszsaa Retro Slouch Crew Socks
- Comfortable
- Stylish
- May slide forward
Colorways: Four | Sizes: One Size | Materials: Cotton, polyamide, spandex
Brown also is a big fan of these slouch crew socks because they come in three different colors and are super affordable. These sporty socks are breathable and feature a flat knit toe seam and heel. Note that these socks only come in one size, but are designed to fit shoe sizes 5 to 11 for both women and men.
Trendy and versatile: Bombas Merino Wool Blend Calf Socks
- Very comfortable
- Nice quality
- May run slightly big
Colorways: Six | Sizes: S-L | Materials: Merino wool, polyester, elastane
If you haven't heard of Bombas, it's definitely time to reevaluate your sock game. "I love these for their softness and temperature-regulating properties," explains Battle. "They are perfect for both warm and cool weather, making them a versatile choice," she says.
Athletic and supportive: Nike Everyday Plus Cushioned
- Very thick
- Comfortable
- Super soft
- May run a little big
Colorways: Eight | Sizes: S-XL | Materials: Cotton, polyester, polyurethane
"These socks are a favorite for their cushioned comfort and durability," shares Battle. "The fabric blend ensures they stay in place and provide excellent support throughout the day," she explains. These comfy socks come in eight different hues and a variety of sizes for a more ideal fit.
Stylish and functional: Adidas Trefoil Crew Socks
- Comfortable
- Variety of colors
- Very thick
- May make feet sweat
Colorways: Five | Sizes: M-XL | Materials: Polyester, elastane
Battle also recommends these Adidas socks and says the ribbed cuffs ensure a secure fit. "These socks combine style and function, with a retro design that pairs well with casual and sporty outfits," she explains. These crew-length socks come in five colorways and feature an arch compression for a comfortable fit.
Fashionable and feminine: J. Crew Sheer Swiss-Dot Socks
- Stylish
- Very comfortable
- May be taller than expected
Colorways: One | Size: One size | Materials: Nylon, spandex
"These socks are an adorable and feminine option, featuring a delicate sheer fabric with Swiss-dot detailing," says Battle. "They come in a pack of three with versatile colors like black, navy, and ivory. Perfect for adding a touch of elegance and fun to any outfit!" she exclaims.
Nostalgic and soft: Free People Classic Retro Sock Pack
- Very comfortable and soft
- Super durable
- May run big
Colorways: Two | Sizes: One Size | Materials: Acrylic, spandex cotton, nylon
"If you're wanting to soften things about a bit with colors, then these Free People socks are great," suggests Stein. Available in two retro shades, these classic socks feature ripped knit detailing and a cushioned footbed.
Editor-loved crew socks
Durable and dainty: Fruit of the Loom Everyday Cushioned Socks
- Stylish
- Long-lasting
- May be tight on ankles
Colorways: One | Sizes: 4-10, 8-12 | Materials: Recycled polyester, spandex
"I’m not one to splurge on socks which is why I swear by Fruit of the Loom socks," says commerce editor Vivien Moon. "Who says style has to be expensive? These are a solid white and do what they need to do. I’ve had pairs that have lasted years without getting holes or falling apart, what more could I ask for?" she explains.
Soft and stretchy: Tna Best-Ever Ankle Sock
- Comfortable
- Tons of colors available
- Multiple sizes
- May run slightly large
Colorways: 15 | Sizes: XS/S-XL/2XL | Materials: Cotton, nylon, polyester, elastane
"These socks are all around perfect!" shares commerce writer Emma Stessman. " The perfect height, perfect amount of stretch, and, most importantly the perfect level of cushion, making them soft and comfortable without being overly bulky. I’ve worn them for long walks, workouts and days at the office and have no complaints!" she explains.
Commerce writer Danielle Murphy also can't get enough of these Tna socks. "I wear them any chance I get. I’ll even make excused to wear sneakers just so I can pop them on. They’re beyond soft and offer the perfect amount of thickness," she raves.
Comfortable and long-lasting: Bandit Lite Run™️ Quarter Socks-
- Comfortable
- Comes in lots of colors/styles
- Breathable
- Machine wash cold
Colorways: Three | Sizes: XS/S, M/L | Materials: COOLMAX, polyester, spandex
Associate editor Kamari Stewart is an avid runner and wore these Bandit socks during the Queens 10K and said her feet felt great after 6.2 miles. "Usually I have a little bit of pinching or soreness at the pinkies but not with these! I wear the same shoes for training and race day so I know the difference is the socks," she says.
Production coordinator Camryn Privette also recommends Bandit socks and reveals they don't make her feet sweat at all. She loves that they are breathable and says her best friend, who is a great runner, wears them as well.
Stretchy and a splurge: Bombas Women's Quarter Sock
- Comfortable
- Soft
- Unusually pricey
Colorways: Five | Sizes: 4-13 | Materials: Cotton, polyester, nylon, elastane
"I’m so mad that I discovered these socks so late in life," says Murphy. "They check all the boxes: soft, stretchy and comfortable. I especially love the ribbed design at the ankle, which prevents them from moving down my foot and scrunching up. Solid sock choice," she explains.
How we chose the best crew socks
The Shop TODAY team rounded up the best crew socks by enlisting the recommendations of four personals stylists. Our editors also shared their tried-and-true favorite socks that they tested themselves.
Meet the experts
- Christina Stein is a personal stylist and CEO of Style by Christina.
- Jessica Cadmus is a wardrobe stylist at Wardrobe Whisperer, and founder of Rogue Paq Accessories.
- Karis Battle is a fashion stylist, costume designer and journalist.
- Samantha Brown is a New York-based celebrity stylist and author of Dressing Up: Pip’s Truly Fashionable Tale”
