After a season dominated by ballet flats, loafers and low-profile trainers, 2026 is set to mark the return of heels. And according to New York’s style set, there’s a new way to style them right now.
Stepping out to a Fendi event in New York this week, actor Emily Zilber elevated her pencil skirt and classic black heels with a pair of semi-sheer black socks.
Slightly unexpected, heels and socks have long divided opinions, evoking everything from school-uniform nostalgia to ’80s-inspired eccentricity. But in practice, the look feels surprisingly modern. The sheer texture softened the sharpness of the black heels, while adding subtle dimension and contrast to the otherwise loose-fitting ensemble.
(Image credit: Getty Images)
Changing the mood of her look, without them, the pencil skirt and heels pairing could have been overly polished or even a little corporate. With them, the look took on a more intellectual, fashion-forward energy. It had an almost librarian quality to it, but in a very good way.
This is exactly the kind of styling trick that fashion people gravitate toward because it requires very little effort yet makes an outfit feel more thoughtful. Just as white socks elevate loafers, a sheer sock can give new life to classic heels.
Newly inspired, scroll down to shop my edited version of the best heels to wear with socks.
Buy Heels:
H&M
Kitten-Heel Slingback
The kitten heel trend shows no signs of slowing down.
Zara
slingback shoes with strap
Wear them with jeans or style them with a sleek pencil skirt.
Although I like these in black, they also come in five other colors.
store controller
Strap-Extension Leather Pump
If you told me these were designers I would easily believe you.
Improvement
Joyce Slingback Heel
Every great wardrobe starts with a pair of black heels.
massimo datti
high heel slingback shoes
The ankle strap adds some lightweight support as well as an attractive point of interest.
Ayde
Katrina Leather Slingback Pumps
These also come in half sizes, so you can find your perfect fit.
Mango
Satin Court Shoes with Ankle Straps
The satin structure gives these such a high edge.
