Thermal clothing doesn't exactly scream style, so it might surprise you to know that a pair of the best thermal socks can actually be the saving grace of your winter outfits. How? Well, whether worn as a discreet option under a pair of trousers, or a knee-high under long boots, thermal socks are versatile enough (and stylish enough) to wear as part of your everyday outfits.
With the sudden cold snap approaching, keeping warm is of the essence. While we often think that the practicalities of cold weather can outweigh style, thermal socks have come a long way since the days of unsightly pairs you wouldn't ever want to be on show.
Just look to the spring/summer 2024 catwalks for inspiration. At Victoria Beckham, Givenchy and MSGM, sheer, knee-high socks were worn with everything from pointed pumps to platform sandals, while at Schiaparelli, models worn long white socks scrunched down to their shins with metallic trainers.
Prada's knee-high socks have been a best-seller for several seasons now – no doubt you've seen them all over social media. Bel Powley even added grey socks to her gold Miu Miu party dress for the BAFTA Tea Party in January of this year. At the recent Haute Couture shows in Paris, as well as at Copenhagen Fashion Week, many street stylers braved the freezing temperatures in socks of all lengths – worn with jeans, skirts and even on top of sheer tights.
Much like thermal tights, thermal socks work to retain heat and control your body temperature.
It goes without saying but, if cold feet are restricting your styling choices, they shouldn't be. Want the ultimate everyday layering piece that'll keep you warm while allowing you to create a fashion-forward wardrobe? Shop our edit of the best thermal socks below.
SHOP: The Best Thermal Socks To Beat The Winter Chill
Uniqlowww.uniqlo.com
Why not layer these thermal socks over a pair of nude thermal tights, and style with on-trend ballet flats or mary-janes? Uniqlo's Heattech thermal socks come in a few neutral tones, a great choice for rotating across your outfits throughout colder seasons and beyond.
calzedoniawww.calzedonia.com
Calzedonia's offering of thermal socks includes these ultra-opaque knee-highs in black. Crafted with a brushed interior and blend of thermal material, they're ideal for even the coldest of temperatures. Try with chunky loafers to channel Prada's take on the trend.
Falkewww.falke.com
Add a pop of colour to your outfits with these Falke socks. There's an endless amount of colour choices, from bright to muted. The merino wool blend has a moisture-regulating, temperature-regulating effect.
Uniqlo www.uniqlo.com
These thermal socks from Uniqlo use Heattech technology to maintain body temperature and retain heat. Like Falke's pair, there are a few options to choose from including a bright blue pair and more neutral colour tones.
Mountain Warehousewww.mountainwarehouse.com
Mountain Warehouse has a whole range of thermal socks to browse, from knee-high to ankle and everything in between. Using long looped pile brushing technology, this pair holds warm air and cushions feet for all-day comfort. You could try with ballet flats for a Miu Miu vibe or even wear with heels à la SS24's catwalks.
Marks And Spencerwww.marksandspencer.com
You can never go wrong with cable knit, and these M&S thermal socks come in a recycled chunky knit fabric that'll ensure you keep cosy. A great styling piece that will work with many different outfits.
calzedoniawww.calzedonia.com
Thermal-effect brushed cotton lines the inside of these socks from Calzedonia. Featuring a range of neutrals, you'll be assured you'll be kept warm while looking stylish in this short pair of thermal socks.
Marks And Spencerwww.marksandspencer.com
You can always rely on Marks and Spencer to deliver, and this set of thermal boot socks comes in a classic black. Its thermal range has a variety of garments, including a good deal of socks that'll come in handy during cold spells.
What Is Thermal Clothing?
Thermals tend to be used as base layers under your clothes to keep warm in colder weather. Using a blend of materials that allow for temperature control, thermal clothing retains body heat which is ideal for winter months. In the same sense, thermal socks keep your feet warm when you're on the go in cooler climates.
Where Is The Best Place To Shop For Winter Socks?
If you're looking for a warm pair of socks for winter, cashmere, merino wool, alpaca wool and mohair socks may be your best bet. Take a look at brands such as Brora, Desmond & Dempsey, Falke, TOAST, Panthrella and Wolford for high-quality staple pairs, perfect for keeping warm.
Samantha Price is a Beauty, Fashion & Wellness Product Writer for Grazia. With two years of experience at Bauer, she has worked on several projects, from championing newsletters to writing expertly crafted buying guides.