Has Everyone Really Gone Mad Over Gen Z Sock Rules?

by Alexandra Mansilla

Has Everyone Really Gone Mad Over Gen Z Sock Rules?

13 Aug 2024

Photo: Rodney Gainous Jr.

If you clicked on this headline, it really concerns you. Lately on Instagram, there is an increasing number of videos claiming that Gen Z wear crew socks and millennials wear ankle ones. In other words, crew socks are fashionable, while short socks are out.

Where did this all start?

It all began with a TikTok video by Phoebe Parsons (Podcast host, Pilates & Barre Instructor), who discussed how to determine someone's generation by looking at one element of their wardrobe — socks: are they visible above the shoes or are they hidden? Parsons says that Gen Z boldly wear socks that reach the ankles, while millennials prefer to hide theirs. Her video garnered over 3.7 million views and was cited by major media outlets.

Moreover, in our interview, when asked, “Are there any things to wear that make you cringe?” Shivani replied, “Shorts with ankle socks. Personally, I prefer when people wear shorts with crew socks. I don't know why; it's just a personal preference.”

So, is it true?

It might be, but I am not sure it is a generational thing. For example, I asked some of my Gen Z friends what they wear. One said, “Right now, I’m sitting in ankle socks.” Another said, “I’m walking down the street, wearing shorts and ankle socks.” Meanwhile, a millennial responded, “Socks should be visible. That’s why I only choose crew socks.”

So, it seems that crew socks are simply in fashion right now?

What should we do? Should we now throw out all ankle socks?

No, don't throw anything away. It is understandable now that shaking off the idea that ankle socks are outdated is hard. However, you don't need to discard them: they are still good. The best recipe ever: just relax.

For instance, crew socks just don't suit me. I can't wear them with shorts or a skirt because I feel they make my legs look shorter (although somewhere online I read that they supposedly make your legs look longer). I am 159 cm tall, and if I wear crew socks, it is only under jeans. Maybe I just haven't found my perfect pair of crew socks yet (perhaps I should try a dark colour).

Look, I have just found these socks recently (especially the pink Jacquemus ones — they are incredible!).

Ami de Coeur socks129 AED

PELO FOUNDATION Labrador socks159 AED

Les Chaussettes Jacquemus logo-intarsia socks160 AED

Ami de Coeur socks129 AED

PELO FOUNDATION Labrador socks159 AED

Les Chaussettes Jacquemus logo-intarsia socks160 AED

And for anyone still rocking ankle socks — how about upgrading to these Karl Lagerfeld ones? That way, you will stay clear of any Gen Z fashion critiques!

PELO FOUNDATION Labrador socks159 AED

by Alexandra Mansilla