Not Just for Clueless

Of the top ten fashion trends to hit the mainstream, high fashion in the New Year one was a surprising touch above the rest. We know that as the years progress the high fashion label brings with it some rather far-fetched styles; while we were ringing in the New Year with champagne the top designers were busy at work implementing their latest runway fashions. To top off the charts is a classic look that has sprouted from the hallways of the modern private school: knee-high and over the knee socks.

Though this most coveted runway look sounds like a tip from the school-girl brigade, when the right designer implements the right facets, it becomes a look that it is far from 'simpleton'. Surprisingly enough this extended look has made its emergence at the top of not only high-fashion form but also in the midst of elegant expression. The 1990's movie Clueless gave us a glimpse of this cute fashion statement by mixing their plaid and tartans with knee length socks. Who knew that one day tall-socks would make it to the prom-expressions list?

Thigh Highs

Although the visual that comes to mind is white, ribbed socks worn to the knee this is far from the elegant exception that is being worn on today's top runways. The white socks have been traded for shear legging-like materials, and the age-old elastic top-band has been traded for sleek styles such as circle-cut, buttonbacks. The designs have changed and therefore so have the expressions and acceptability. There is one simple point that fashion leaders try to make about this statement and that is 'if you have bigger thighs the thigh-high's will draw too much attention to them, so stick with a slightly shorter alternative.'

There is a very attractive 'layering' trend that is occurring on the elegant side of this style. By using shear, 'stay-ups' under a pair of sultry, tall boots the appeal is drastically heightened when paired with a thigh-cut dress, or even a flowing knee cut gown. The best part to this trend is the slimming effect it can have if worn correctly. Knee high socks that are cut off right below the knee are more likely to give you a slimmer look. The most elegant way to wear above-the-knee tights is to pair colored, patterned, textured, ribbed, or uniquely cut or backless tights with high cut boots, tall heels and vibrantly patterned dresses that match the undertones of the tights.