It’s become very common knowledge that the unsung style hero for 2024 is ornamental hosiery.
Whether it's Sydney Sweeney’s thigh-high lace white tights, Nicola Peltz’s sheer stockings and white mini dress combo or Camille Charriere fashion week fishnets, hosiery in all forms seems to be everywhere and there’s a new variation on the block which is already loved by the likes of Kristen Stewart, Zendaya and Julia Fox.
Knee-high tights and socks have been around for decades, commonly linked to school uniforms, chic Upper East Side grandmas and nerdy college kids. If there's one thing we know for certain it's that the knee-high tight doesn't discriminate in any way shape or form.
© GettyKnee-high tights have been on our radar for a few months now, initially sparked by Zendaya's ultra-glam Schiaparelli Haute couture week look where she donned a pair of fishnet under-the-knee options from Wolford.
Since then our eyes have been on the lookout for more notable names adopting the sock style, our prayers recently answered by none other than Kristen Stewart (whose stylist needs a pay rise) and Julia Fox, who both sported a pair while out and about earlier this week.
© Instagram/@orion_scottAfter a quick trawl through a few ‘it’ girls Instas, it became apparent that styling knee-highs for 2024 is actually easier than you might think, just take a look for yourself.
Are knee-high socks still in style?
Knee-high socks have cycled in and out of fashion throughout history, but they saw a significant resurgence in popularity during the 1960s and 1970s. This trend was largely influenced by the mod looks of the era, where knee-highs were often paired with mini skirts and Mary Jane shoes, embodying a youthful, playful aesthetic.
"The style dipped in popularity in subsequent decades but made a comeback in the 1990s and early 2000s, partly driven by the schoolgirl look popularised by pop culture and celebrities," explains H! Fashion's Editor Natalie Salmon, "Since then, knee-high socks have remained a staple in fashion, often reemerging in transitional seasons as a stylish way to add warmth and a layer of interest to outfits."
How to Style Knee High Socks in 2024...
With A Cool-Girl Co-ord
© @rosiehw/InstagramRosie perfectly nailed the styling of knee-high socks by choosing a sleek, skirt suit from Alo that complemented the dark, sheer socks. The socks add a touch of sophistication and contrast effectively with her heeled pumps Prada pumps creating a chic, modern look.
With Chunky Boots
© GettyPossibly my favourite way to wear knee-highs is with a chunky boot. This look from Bella Hadid is giving goth-chic in all the right ways, the socks adding a girly touch to her all-black ensemble.
With Heels in the Same Colour
© GettyAlbeit this look of Gigi’s is taken from Jacquemus’ “Le Chouchou" fashion show, the fact still stands that lace knee-highs and heels is having a major moment.
With Trainers
© GettyTrainers and knee-highs potentially shouldn’t work together, but Kristen Stewart has proved us wrong. The actress paired her sheer black pair with white trainers, a black skirt and a graphic baby tee nailing the casual but cute aesthetic.
With Ballet Flats
© GettyEarlier this week our favourite 'weird-girl' Julia Fox donned a nude pair with pink ballet flats, a striped turtleneck sweater and secretary-core glasses, effortlessly exuding Y2K style.
With A LBD
© GettyInstagram’s chicest style mogul Sarah Lysander donned the cutest LBD and sheer black knee-high combo to PFW earlier this month. Typically a LBD on its own is statement enough however the addition of sheer socks elevates the look into a whole new stylistic sphere.
The Best Knee-High Tights & Socks To Shop Now:
Classic Sheer Knee High Sock
Urban Outfitters
Style Tip: I'd pair these practically perfect pink options with an all-black look to add a pop of colour.
Made from super soft nylon and featuring a 15-denier, these under the knee sheer options are Bella Hadid-approved.
Solid Over The Knee Socks
Cider
Style Tip: Perfect for when you want a cosy and cute vibe but without committing to a full stocking. Pair with a set of mini shorts and a chunky black knit or with a mini dress and fluffy jacket.
I'm totally into these cute over-the-knee socks— according to reviews they don’t slip off, and the quality? Chef's kiss! They’re perfect for nailing that balletcore vibe I'm still obsessed with.
Satin Touch 20 Knee-Highs
Wolford
Style Tip: I’d style these classic options them with a sharp mini dress and stiletto heels to play up the confident vibe. Black and sheer, they’re basically the secret weapon of a chic fashion arsenal. Love.
I'm all about these sheer knee-highs that make skin look flawlessly smooth. The soft, wide cuffs are a dream—they stay up without squeezing. Perfect for a sleek, understated look.
Embrace Lace Tall Socks
Free People
Style Tip: I can't get the idea of wearing these with chunky knee-high boots out of my head.
Made from luxurious lace and completed with a frill hem, these dainty delights are the easiest way to add a femme vibe to any look.
Animal Print Pattern Sheer Knee-High Socks
Calzedonia
Style Tip: I’d style them with a slick leather mini and a slouchy, oversized sweater. It’s an effortlessly cool look, perfect for brunch or a night out. They're statement socks for statement vibes.
I'm all about these fierce animal print knee-high's as they're sheer perfection with just the right amount of stretch. They add an instant edge to any look, turning any pavement into a runway.
Pois Knee-Highs
Fogal
Style Tip: I’d style them with a crisp white shirt dress and chunky loafers for a look that’s preppy with a twist of sophistication. Perfect for transitioning from day to night.
I'm loving these sheer knee-highs with their classic dot and diamond pattern—it’s all about subtle elegance. They’re super versatile for any occasion with a soft, comfy border.
Shelina 12 DEN Women Knee-high Socks
Falke
Style Tip: Rock them with a sleek, thigh-grazing slip dress and some strappy sandals for a look that’s effortlessly elegant. Absolutely a wardrobe staple for sunny but brisk days.
Falke's ultra-sheer knee-highs are like a summer breeze on the skin. They also have a large range that caters to deeper skin tones, giving legs that flawless, makeup-like finish. The soft cuff? A dream. No squeezing, just pure comfort.
2-Pack Knee-High Socks
H&M
Style Tip: Wear with your favourite cosy knit and a matching beanie for a Cameron Diaz in The Holiday look or with a slip dress and loafers for a casual and understated ensemble.
these classic ribbed options come in a two-pack which means you're technically getting one pair for free- who doesn't love a bargain?
Ribbed Merino Wool Knee Socks
COS
Style Tip: Lean into the all-black aesthetic and style these cosy options with a knitted black dress, a cropped coat and a hat of your choosing.
Made from merino wool these knee-highs will keep you warm and toasty all winter long while also lasting a lifetime.
Black Flower Crystal Emblem Knee High Socks
Simone Rocha
Style Tip: I think it would be easier to list what I wouldn't wear these with. Think of these as your fancy knee-highs and wear them with whatever ensemble is on the cards for date night.
If you're in the mood to splurge, these crystal-adorned Simone Rocha options will be sure to start conversations on every street you walk. Made from 86% cotton these socks are both lightweight and comfortable.
How we chose the pieces:
Aesthetic: After scouring the internet’s top fashion boutiques, we’ve handpicked knee-high socks and tights that exude a luxurious vibe. Despite their reasonable price tags, these selections could easily pass for high-end designer goods.
Quality: I looked for exceptional cuts, intricate patterns, and exquisite details that set them apart.
Why you should trust me:
I am Hello! Fashion’s Fashion Features Writer. With a love for all things fashion (the quirkier the better), I can usually be found playing dress-up in my own wardrobe, watching Gilmore Girls for the 8th time or finding new outfit inspo and DIY musts on TikTok, nothing in my closet is safe from a safety-pin bow embellishment. I have been in the styling world for almost 5 years now, specialising in editorial features, luxury campaigns and music videos. As for the world of magazines, I have worked for various digital and print publications around the world, focusing on fashion. Basically, fashion is my bread and butter.
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