It won't come as a shock to hear that flat shoes are trending. If you’ve been reading Who What Wear for any length of time, you’ll know we’ve long championed the joys of no-heels fashion. Whether it's Mary Janes, loafers, ballet flats or the increasingly popular ballet trainer, if it keeps our feet firmly and comfortably on the ground, we’re fully on board.
Having explored the many shapes and styles of this enduring shoe category, I thought I’d covered every angle. That was until Aimee Lou Wood reminded me of a simple styling trick that makes even the most classic flats feel fresh and cool.
Rather than opting for bare ankles or wintry tights, Wood stepped out in not one, but two different pairs of black flat shoes this week, each styled with a bright-white pair of socks. First came a sleek pair of suede Mary Janes, followed closely by some glossy leather loafers, both brought to life with the subtle yet striking addition of some ankle socks.
Keeping her outfits streamlined and considered, Wood stuck to a minimal colour palette, building her looks around wardrobe staples like structured leather jackets and timeless straight-leg jeans. But it was the socks—layered neatly beneath her black flats—that added a sense of contrast, femininity and texture. That unmistakable clean finish that only white can deliver elevated her simple styling to something altogether more directional.
While Wood’s looks brought this clever combo back to the forefront of my mind, it’s actually a styling trick I’ve been spotting across London lately. As the city transitions from boots to lighter spring layers, the white sock-and-flat-shoe pairing has quietly become a go-to for those in the know.
Smart yet unfussy, polished but relaxed—this two-step formula encapsulates the easy elegance of London style right now. Scroll on to see how Londoners are styling the trend right now, then shop our edit of the best flat shoes and white socks below.
DISCOVER HOW LONDONERS ARE WEARING WHITE SOCKS AND BLACK SHOES:
Style Notes: The easiest way to make a leggings outfit feel impossible chic, tall white socks and glossy leather loafers will give your look a pretty finish and a smart silhouette.
Style Notes: There's something about the addition of white socks that makes black flats feel so much more elvated. When paired with smart staples like pencil skirts and pinstripes, you can easy style your flats into the evening.
Style Notes: Who What Wear's assistant social media editor Annie Wheatland Clinch has long been a fan of this classic sock + flat shoe combination—she even took it out for a spin during London Fashion Week earlier this year.
Style Notes: Before high-summer hits, ensure you're keeping adequately warm by layering your look with a pair of fresh white socks.
Style Notes: While white socks elevated Mary Janes and ballet flats, I happen to think they look particularly chic with simple, glossy loafers.
SHOP OUT EDIT OF WHITE SOCKS AND BLACK SHOES.
A glossy pair of black loafers will always look chic.
I'm stocking up on white socks and this 10 pack makes it easy.
These also come in gold and silver.
These come in two different sizes, so you can find your perfect fit.
Reformation's Bethany Ballet Flats are a fashion person's favourites.
The cashmere composition ensures a cosy finish.
Be quick—I really can't see these staying in stock for long.
The ribbed detailing gives these a smarter finish.
These also come in cream.
These come in five other colours.
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