Before McDonald’s got us to say “Super-size me!” slouch socks were on the scene getting us to bulk up on footwear in the 80s.  Ultra-plush and ribbed for maximum squish effect, slouch socks were scrunched, or ‘slouched’ as it was called, down to just above the ankles.  The slouch sock trend evolved from another 80s trend, the legwarmer, making it easier for those of us who weren’t quite ready for the Flashdance look. 

Slouch socks were practically a necessity with other fashion trends from the 80s, like L.A. Gear, Reebok and ankle-zip Gitanos.  If you didn’t have ankle-zipped pants, it was simple enough to emulate by borrowing a 50s bobby sox fashion trend; just peg your jeans! 

You could go with simple white socks, which were easily scuffed and made dingy thanks to everyday school wear, or you could go with a veritable explosion of colors and patterns, a look that would become popular for those who were a bit braver.  Following the trend of doubling up Izod shirts, another option in the slouch sock look was to layer them as well.  Just throw on a different color slouch sock over the first and the 80s were practically perfected.  Punky Brewster, and the truly cool among us, brought this look to an entirely new level with two-toned shoes, like those Converse made popular.  Two-toned shoes, two-toned socks… who could go wrong with that? 

Though the slouch sock has since become the domain of Hooters Girls and Dallas Cowboy cheerleaders, the trend rests comfortably in the hearts of a generation of girls who remember the comfy and punky warmth of their slouch socks.