How to rock pop socks in midlife without looking 'frumpy'

It's often said that fashion is cyclical and that certainly seems to be the case for fashion's next 'It' accessory: pop socks.Yes, those sheer, knee length tights you likely remember from the 80s are back and in full force.Like baggy jeans and polka dots, this 80s accessories is back and bigger than ever. And celebrities can't seem to get enough of them.And from the red carpet, on the street and even on stage, A-listers have wholeheartedly embraced the look with 'Die On This Hill' singer Sienna Spiro wearing the look while performing on-stage at a concert in London.The look was also popular at Paris Fashion Week which means that it's only a matter of time until pop socks are stocked in every major clothing store.Not just in vogue, however, pop socks are also a practical (and stylish) alternative to tights.But as with many trending fashion accessories, there's a fear of appearing frumpy. So, here's how to rock the pop in midlife, according to the experts. It's often said that fashion is cyclical and that certainly seems to be the case for fashion's next 'It' accessory: pop socks. Pictured, Bella HadidGo for sheer over thick and opaqueAccording to personal stylist Lisa Talbot: 'If you want to give pop socks a more contemporary feel, start with the finish.'Swapping a pair of opaque pop socks with a sheer alternative is a great way to give the 80s accessory a modern modern look.Talbot said: 'A sheer black or subtle nude style can feel lighter and less visually heavy than a thick, opaque sock.'She added: 'The aim is to make the socks look like a deliberate part of your outfit rather than something you have added purely for warmth.'Think about your shoes A-listers have wholeheartedly embraced the look with 'Die On This Hill' singer Sienna Spiro wearing the look while performing on-stage at a concert in LondonYour footwear can make or break any outfit, something that's even more true when wearing pop socks.Luckily Talbot has offered her suggestions on the footwear you should choose to pair with your pop socks. She said: 'Loafers, ballet flats and Mary Jane shoes are natural partners for pop socks, particularly if you want to create a modern, preppy feel.''A sleek ankle boot can also work, depending on the cut of the shoe and how much of the sock is visible,' she added.Stylist Rochelle White recommends pairing sheer black knee highs with pointed court shoes, slingbacks or boots.White said: 'This helps bring a chic look and also a glimpse of texture when you walk or sit.' Get the skirt length right Amanda Seyfried seen in Midtown on December 3, 2025 in New York City Billie Eilish at the Los Angeles premiere Of Paramount Pictures' Billie Eilish: Hit Me Hard And Soft - The Tour Live In 3D held at the Village Theatre on May 6, 2026Getting the skirt length right is possibly one of the most important things to consider when styling pop socks. Talbot said: 'One of the biggest factors in making pop socks work is the relationship between the hemline and where the sock finishes on your leg.'It's important to consider your outfit's silhouette as a whole, rather than treating your socks as a separate matter entirely.She said: 'If you are wearing a skirt that finishes just below the knee, for example, a pop sock that ends a short distance below the hem may create a visual break that feels awkward.'A shorter skirt allows knee high socks more room to be seen, but according to White that doesn't mean you need to go mini; a skirt above the knee will work just fine. As is outfit best practice, it's also a good idea to check over your look in a full length mirror, that way you can best judge how its proportions and lengths work together.Don't be afraid of a little pattern'A subtle spot, fine rib or delicate pattern can add interest to a simple outfit and make the socks feel like an intentional styling detail,' according to Talbot.If you're wearing patterned pop socks for the first time, it's probably best to keep the rest of your outfit relatively simple.Talbot said: 'A plain skirt, knitwear and classic shoes will allow a patterned sock to add personality without competing with everything else.''It is also a lovely way to experiment with your style without spending a fortune or buying an entirely new outfit,' she added.Use colourIt's hard to go wrong with a black pop sock, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't try out other colours. In fact, if you're looking to push the boat out, choosing a pair of coloured pop socks can bring an entire outfit together.Colour is also a great way to add contrast into an outfit. The trick, according to Talbot, is making it look considered, not accidental.Talbot said: 'Try coordinating the colour of your socks with your shoes, skirt or another element of your outfit. This can create a more cohesive appearance and help the socks feel integrated into the overall look.'