When a new season rolls around — especially spring — it's easy to get a little overly excited in the clothing and accessories departments. Before it's truly hot enough outside, though, all of our favorite stores, from Zara to Barneys, seem to roll out their warm-weather wear (think opened-toe shoes and tank tops) just to taunt us. (It's like those new arrivals stare at us, whispering, "Yes, I'm pretty, but you can't wear me for the next six weeks, at least.")There's one tried-and-true fashion-girl trick, however, that lets you actually take advantage of all those gorgeous new heels, sandals, and slides before the season starts: the sock-sandal combination. Since it can feel a little crazy to rock an open-toe shoe when morning temperatures are still in the 30s, all you really need to do is throw on a sheer or printed sock (the color and pattern, of course, depends on the type of shoe) to make that can't-wait-to-wear pair of kicks work for transitional weather. Click on to see exactly how it's done.
Pair a patent sandal with a contrasting sock — a little sparkle adds yet another texture to the mix.
Tibi Clark Sandals, $415, available at Tibi; Topshop Roll Top Glitter Ankle Sock, $6, available at Topshop.
Play up the metallic straps on this crisscross sandal with a subtle, sheer set that features gilded polka dots.
Zara Wedges with Crossover Straps, $69.90, available at Zara; Tabio Transparent Dotted Socks, $10, available at Opening Ceremony.
With a bright blue flatform sandal, keep to a simple white sock with a quirky, squiggly touch.
Aquatalia Wanette Sandal, $395, available at Aquatalia; Henrik Vibskov Sheer Wavy Stripe Socks, $20.92, available at Farfetch.
Slide right into some simple wedges with a fun, grid-printed pair of socks in a neon hue.
Charles & Keith Espadrille Flatform Slip-ons, $39, available at Charles & Keith; Y's Yellow Sheer Check Socks, $50, available at SSENSE.
Amp up a neutral suede sandal by opting for a bold sock. This sheer, blood-orange pair kicks things up a notch (and is surprisingly neutral).
Jeffrey Campbell Beaton Mules, $130, available at Shopbop; & Other Stories Sheer Nylon Socks, $5, available at & Other Stories.
Keep the tough-girl vibe of a black studded sandal going with a badass fishnet sock.
Alexander Wang Sandrah Suede Flatform, $595, available at Alexander Wang; ASOS Oversized Fish Net Ankle Socks, $5.50, available at ASOS.
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