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From the Row to Reformation, you can’t go wrong Crew Wool Sock
Every fall and winter, an endearing shoe style pops up and prevails above the rest—whether it’s a statement mule in early autumn, a satin ballet flat toward the end of summer, or a comfortable loafer that transcends every season and weather transition. This season, however, we’re looking toward a reworked classic and nominating the best sock boots as the essential winter shoe. Take Nomasei’s offerings, for example: Season after season, the label’s Strada and Aria sock boots are some of street style’s favorites for a modern and unique look, regardless of the runway’s dominant shoe trends.
At this point, with the range of structured leather boots on the market, a sock boot seems almost irregular. Still, Nomasei co-founder Marine Braquet thinks the sock boot will endure. “The trend keeps coming back because it flatters the silhouette, so women never get fed up,” she explains. “Our clients often say, ‘It’s sexy but easy to wear!’ and it is—chic, and extremely comfortable when well made. All of our sock boots are timeless, so it’s a safe bet.”
Safe bet it is—modern twists on the sock boot work with virtually everything, from knitted maxi skirts and baggy denim to oversize suiting and jersey midi dresses (and they’re one of the most comfortable boot styles around). The best sock boots for women are as walkable as they are sleek. With styles ranging from extra-sharp pointed toes to knee boots that stretch comfortably over the leg, shop our favorite versions of the season ahead.
These boots aren’t like the others—they’re cast in a deep burgundy (our favorite trending color), with a neutral stripe along the back zipper. And they’re set on a low, block heel for effortless strolling. Heel height: 1.5"
Pliable and glovelike stretch Napa leather are the foundations of this popular sock boot from Reformation. Wear yours with wide-leg denim or side-split flare leggings for an evening look.
Cut into a graceful knee-high shape, these slender Toteme boots have sharp pointed toes and kitten heels for all-day wearing.
Materials: Black leather and suede
Leave it up to Bottega Veneta to craft a sock boot that’s totally wearable but subversive. As seen on the fall 2023 runway, the Atomic boot is tall enough to wear with swishy skirts, and warm enough for winter styling.
For the minimalist, opt for Vagabond’s Blanca boots—a boot made from black stretch fabric into a pull-on design. The style is complete with a square toe and visible seams.
I was holiday shopping for others when I came across this boot, but I instantly added it to my cart for myself. The pared-back silhouette, matte black composition, and flat bottom mark this shoe as one to watch.
Neous’s socklike Ran boots are made in Italy from buttercream stretch leather that sculpts to the shape of your foot. The best part? The spool heel adds a bit of height without causing a teetering stance.
The Row is a fan of the simple and the clean, but the Olsen twins never sacrifice sophistication and allure. Case in point: one of their most sought-after boot styles, the Ava bootie. Heel height: 0"
Materials: Leather upper, textile lining
With the house’s signature Tabi cleft toe, these soft black sock boots are a Maison Margiela chef d’oeuvre. We think they’d go perfectly with an oversize, distressed leather jacket. Heel height: 1.1"
Materials: Outer and sole: 100% leather. Lining: leather, polyester, cotton.
Made in Italy, Loewe’s pumps are composed of patent leather with a socklike mesh overlay that adds sex appeal. Show them off with cashmere dresses and knitted skirts. Heel height: 4"
If there’s one thing we constantly hear about Tony Bianco’s lush lineup of footwear, it’s that each is so comfortable. Here, an ankle silhouette gives way to a pointed toe shape, stiletto heel, and textured knitted fabrication.
Materials: Synthetic upper and synthetic lining
By Far has become our favorite label for trendy accessories and classic footwear that doesn’t sacrifice on comfort. Just take a look at the Este boots: a pair with a low heel, and a side zipper for a smooth, secure fit.
Khaite’s Apollo boot comes in midnight suede and smooth leather, offering options for varying winter moods. The soft rounded toe is inspired by ballet flats—right up our alley!
You can spy all of Gucci’s signatures with this luxurious sock boot, from the house’s signature golden horsebit detail to the cognac hue and chunky heel.
Materials: Lamb and goat leather
It isn’t a footwear roundup without featuring at least two items from the Row. I couldn’t leave out the Cyd Boot, a truly unique sock boot that doubles as a slingback heel.
For more than 150 years, Harper’s Bazaar has been the preeminent fashion, beauty, and lifestyle resource for women at every age. We cover what’s new and what’s next in fashion by working with the world’s leading authorities in ready-to-wear, footwear, accessories, and more. Every story we publish has been thoroughly researched and vetted by our team of editors and industry experts.
Cortne Bonilla is freelance writer who occasionally dabbles in party reporting. When she’s not writing, you can find her vintage shopping, sipping iced lattes, reading on the train, and indulging in Pilates.
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