Sheer socks produce a cool impression, and are the perfect item to wear in muggy weather when it's still too stifling hot to wear full-length stockings.
Choosing the right colors and patterns is key to keeping you from looking too casual.
Many such socks are made of tulle, a type of lace fabric, materials of which are often nylon or polyester.
"Sheer socks with a T-shirt and pants add a hint of autumn to your outfit, and they are available at reasonable prices," stylist Akiko Yamamoto said.
Yamamoto recommends solid black tulle socks, as they have a mature and smart look. "They go well with any kinds of clothes and shoes. They are even suitable for those who have never worn them before," she said.
She suggests wearing shoes with the same type of color palette as that of the socks. For black socks, she chose black sandals and a beige flared skirt. She also suggested replacing the sandals with black high heels when the weather is cooler.
Knowing the right length of skirt to wear with socks is important because socks that are too long can be too close to the skirt and make the legs look short. Yamamoto said the right length of socks is slightly above the ankles.
"Check yourself from head to toe in the mirror. If you feel that your look is unbalanced, push down your socks," Yamamoto said.
In regards to patterned socks, Yamamoto said: "Choose muted colors such as navy, black or gray, and your look won't be too casual."
Navy-striped tulle socks add sharpness to an outfit, and combing them with Oxford shoes creates a masculine feel. Navy-colored pants will pull the whole look together, and seeing the stripes from under the pants will accentuate the whole look.
Wide array of designs
Sheer socks are available in various designs and colors this season.
Specialty sock shop Tabio's popular Crepe Sheer Loose Crew Socks (1,000 yen/9, dollars tax not included) are striped socks that come in black, navy, gray and dark yellow.
Tabio spokesperson Risa Kobayashi said, "It's fashionable to have red or dark yellow socks to accentuate muted-toned clothing." The socks are slightly long, so it's better to push them down when wearing them.
Meanwhile, polka dot socks (900 yen) are shiny and keep your look from being too girly. Huge chrysanthemum flower-printed socks (900 yen) are also good with simple coordinates.
Sheer socks are often delicate, so Kobayashi recommends washing them by hand or putting them in a laundry bag when washing them.
Read more from The Japan News at https://japannews.yomiuri.co.jp/
