Sock Trends 2026: What Socks Are In Style Right Now?

What are the trendiest socks right now? In 2026, the socks in style are fishnet socks, sheer and lace ankle socks, knee highs and pop socks worn over tights, sporty stripe tennis socks, relaxed slouch socks — and richer, warmer colours led by grey, chocolate and burgundy. Socks have moved from an afterthought to the finishing touch of an outfit, and the good news is that every one of these trends costs less than a coffee-and-cake stop to try.

1. Fishnet socks — the trend that refuses to leave

Fishnet socks are 2026's most-worn sock trend. A diamond-net or honeycomb ankle sock peeking over a loafer, mule or heeled sandal adds instant edge to an otherwise plain outfit, and micro-mesh versions read as texture rather than statement. Black is the classic, white feels fresher for summer, and nude keeps it subtle. Browse our fishnet ankle socks or read the full guide to styling fishnet socks in 2026.

2. Lace and sheer ankle socks — 2026's prettiest trend

Lace-trimmed and sheer ankle socks are everywhere this year: with ballet flats and Mary Janes, under strappy heels, or softening a chunky trainer. They are the easiest way into the socks-with-heels look. Our guide to styling lace and sheer ankle socks covers the details, and the ankle socks collection has lace, sheer and patterned styles from £5.99.

3. Knee highs and pop socks — back on the catwalk

Knee high socks are having their strongest year since the 2000s: sheer pop socks under wide-leg trousers, fishnet knee highs with skirts, and patterned knee highs styled over plain tights as autumn layering. If pop socks are new to you, start with our complete pop socks guide or the knee high style guide, then browse knee highs & pop socks.

4. Sporty stripes and tennis socks

The preppy tennis sock — white with two or three coloured stripes at the cuff — has crossed over from the gym to everyday outfits, worn with trainers, tennis skirts and denim alike. Colour-tipped cuffs in pink, green or red are the 2026 twist on the classic white sports sock. Find striped tennis styles in our women's socks collection.

5. Slouch socks — the relaxed one

Scrunched, ribbed slouch socks — worn loose over leggings or with chunky trainers — are the comfort end of 2026's sock wardrobe, borrowed straight from the 80s aerobics look and softened for daily wear.

6. This year's sock colours

White sports socks are no longer the default: 2026's palette runs to grey, cream, chocolate, burgundy and soft pastels, with grey emerging as the new neutral. We wrote a whole piece on it — why grey is the new white.

How to wear 2026's sock trends

Two rules keep any sock trend wearable. First, let the sock be the only statement: fishnet or lace socks work best against simple shoes and hemlines. Second, mind the break: ankle socks should just clear the shoe, knee highs should sit below the knee without digging in. For the bolder looks, our guide to wearing socks with heels is the place to start.

What kind of socks are trendy right now?

Fishnet socks, sheer and lace ankle socks, knee highs and pop socks, striped tennis socks and slouch socks are the trendiest styles in 2026.

Are white socks still in style?

Classic white tennis socks with coloured stripes are still going strong, but grey, cream and chocolate tones are 2026's fashion-forward choice.

What socks should I wear with heels?

Sheer, lace or fishnet ankle socks are the fashion-insider choice with heels — keep the sock fine and the shoe simple.