Most fashion-minded individuals grew up believing the ingrained fashion rule that you should never where sock with sandals. But the rules are changing my friends and this season we’re seeing just how accessible – and surprisingly sensible – wearing socks with sandals has become.

It’s taken awhile for this trend to grow – probably because of the traditional mindset we have about the pairing – but I’ve been seeing a fair number of people rocking the look lately. And why wouldn’t you?!? Think of all the benefits that come with wearing a sock… It’s by far more comfortable, reduces the likelihood of blisters, keeps your toes warm and gives you the opportunity to wear your favourite sandals all year long. For this Canadian girl living in frigid temperatures for six-months a year, that last point is critical!

It’s also a great way to express your personal style. Mix colours, find new textures, have fun with your fashion. Be inspired!

But before you get ahead of yourself and pair those cosmic cat socks with your Birkenstocks, have a look at how these Instagram Fashionistas made the look work for them. Each lovely lady clearly has her own take on the trend and uses it to highlight their style.

@2ndhalfhipsters

When I first saw my friend @2ndhalfhipsters showcase her magazine vs thrift look, I became obsessed. Seriously, how cute is this?!? I could never pull off yellow shoes because of my pale skin but paired with an adorable black/white strip, I’d most definitely wear this. In fact, I may still have a pair of yellow sling-backs deep in my closet, which I’ve never worn. See, I’m even recycling my own accessories, thanks to this trend 😉

@arrayoffaces

The absolutely stunning @arrayoffaces has a panache for combining colours. Here, she put green and purple together and created a stunning pop brilliance. It’s a show stopper! If you’re nervous about combining colour, just remember this little tip… If you can find the combination in nature, it will work in your wardrobe. Are you getting the violet vibes from this? I know I am!

@justauniform

I cam across @justauniform as I was researching this post and I was immediately taken by her style. She has an everywoman fun-fashion vibe, which is totally accessible. In this shot, she complimented her stripped dress with a sock that has similar tones. The flash of gold in her shoe totally compliments the dress sparkle. I’m filing this look away for the next event I need to attend!

@poczatkowa

No one said you have to only pick socks that make a bold statement. @poczatkowa shows us how you can be more subtle but still classy. A glittery sock is the perfect accompaniment to a basic black sandal and takes the whole look to a new level. I don’t know about you, but this had me pulling out all my open toe shoes!

@myhouseofzing (that’s me!)

Little-ole-me just wanted to have some fun and with Valentine’s Day just around the corner, it was easy to find some love-themed socks. I’ve had these shoes for a few months now and was bummed I wouldn’t be wearing them until is was bare feet weather. But now, I can’t wait to show them – and my new socks – to the world!

@rendoesathing

Playful and sweet, @rendoesathing has a youthful style that is fun, practical and easy for anyone to achieve. The sock/shoe combo doesn’t have to always be the focus of the outfit – and in fact, that’s a good way of trying this look out if you’re unsure about it – but it will always elevate your look and add that little something-something.

@mintmalone

I am obsessed with bee motifs so it’s no surprise I gasped when I saw this post from @mintmalone. In this case, the sock is the real show stopper and stands out but it would be a very different look paired with kicks. And personally, I think these socks deserve the glam of high heeled sandals.

Hopefully this post gave you the inspiration you need to break those old stereotypes and create some of your own looks. With any luck, we won’t need those socks for long! #byebyewinter

Need some more inspo for your wardrobe? Check out Beginner Tips for Stacking Rings Like a Pro or Bold Prints for the Fashion Conservatives to kick-start your new look.

Keep it styling!