🧦 Slouchy is Back: The Retro Sock Trend Everyone’s Knitting
- Silly Monkey Knits
- Jul 25
- 4 min read
Sometimes, the best knitting trends are the ones that feel like a warm hug from the past. Enter: slouch socks. Once a staple of 80s aerobics classes and 90s high school hallways, slouchy socks are officially back—and knitters everywhere are casting on.
Whether you wear them over leggings, scrunched down into boots, or layered with skirts and sneakers, one thing’s clear: slouch socks are the new must-knit accessory.
💫 What Are Slouch Socks, Exactly?
Slouch socks are soft, thick, often ribbed socks that are longer than your average pair—and most importantly, they’re meant to slouch. That scrunched-down look isn’t a mistake; it’s the style.
They’re cozy. They’re comfy. And they’re surprisingly easy to knit.
✨ Why Slouch Socks Are Trending Again
Fashion trends are famously cyclical, and the current wave of 80s/90s nostalgia (thanks TikTok and Gen Z) has brought slouchy socks roaring back. But this time, they’re not just store-bought—they’re handmade with love.
Here’s why knitters are obsessed:
Retro Chic: They pair perfectly with everything from vintage dresses to bike shorts.
Texture Play: The ribbing, slouching, and yarn choices offer tons of visual interest.
Great for Gifting: One size fits most, and they feel luxe with the right yarn.
Creative Freedom: Choose your length, cuff, texture, and even add cables or colorwork.
🧶 What Yarns Work Best?
The key to perfect slouch socks is choosing the right yarn + structure combo. You want something soft enough to slouch naturally, but with enough elasticity to stay up around your calf when needed.
Top Yarn Tips:
DK or Worsted Weight yarns give you that cushy, plush feel.
Wool blends add bounce and warmth (great for winter layers).
Cotton or bamboo blends work well for spring/summer slouch socks.
Go bold with self-striping or speckled yarns for a pop of personality!
🧶 How to Knit Slouch Socks (Step-by-Step for Beginners)
Ready to jump in? Here’s a simple, beginner-friendly guide to knitting your first pair of slouchy socks.
✨ You’ll Need:
DK or worsted-weight yarn (about 200–250 yards)
US 4–6 (3.5–4 mm) DPNs or circulars (for Magic Loop)
Tapestry needle
Stitch markers
Sock blockers (optional for finishing)
👣 Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cast On (Top-Down)
Cast on 48–56 stitches (depending on size & yarn weight).
Join in the round and place a stitch marker.
Work 1x1 or 2x2 ribbing for 1–2 inches for a stretchy cuff.
2. Knit the Leg (The Slouch!)
Switch to stockinette (knit every round), or add a textured stitch like broken rib or waffle.
Knit the leg for 7–10 inches to create that scrunchy volume.
Try it on your leg as you go—you want it longer than usual socks!
3. Knit the Heel
Choose your preferred heel: short row heel (great for beginners), or slip-stitch heel flap for more durability.
Work across half your stitches for the heel.
Follow your pattern
4. Knit the Foot
Once the heel is turned and gusset stitches are picked up, continue in the round.
Knit until the foot measures about 2 inches shorter than your foot length.
5. Shape the Toe
Decrease using a standard wedge toe:
Every other round: Knit to 3 stitches before marker, k2tog, k1—repeat for both sides.
Then every round until ~16 stitches remain.
Graft the toe using Kitchener stitch or do a snug drawstring bind-off.
Start your journey with our Beginner Sock Knitting Course at courses.sillymonkey.us — perfect for first-timers who want cozy results with confidence!
6. Finishing Touches
Weave in ends with a tapestry needle.
Block using long-leg sock blockers to help shape the slouch.
Scrunch and admire your retro-cool handiwork!
🧵 Slouch Sock Knitting Tips
Here are a few things to keep in mind when planning your pair:
Tip | Why It Matters |
Knit extra leg length | The “slouch” comes from the added fabric scrunching down. |
Choose a stretchy cuff | Try 1x1 or 2x2 ribbing so it holds shape but isn’t too tight. |
Consider heel structure | A reinforced heel will help the sock last longer, even if it’s not worn tightly. |
Play with texture | Try broken rib, waffle, or mock cables for added squish. |
🧾 Our Favorite Slouch Sock Patterns
Looking for the perfect pattern to cast on? Try these popular picks:
“Classic Slouch Socks” by Churchmouse Yarns – a timeless choice.
“Cozy Slouch Socks” by Handknitlife – worsted-weight and weekend-friendly.
“Scrunchy Socks” by Summer Lee – great for bold yarns and playful colorways.
Design your own! Simply add 3–4 extra inches to the leg of your favorite vanilla sock pattern.
✨ Pro tip: Want your slouch to look perfect on display? Block your socks on sock blockers that are shaped for longer leg lengths. We happen to make great ones 😉 – check them out on sillymonkey.us
📸 Style It Like It’s 1989 (Or 2025)
Slouch socks aren’t just for lounging—here’s how folks are wearing them today:
Scrunched over leggings with an oversized sweatshirt
Peeking out of Doc Martens or Converse
Under Mary Janes with a flowy skirt
Layered over tights in chilly weather
Tag your makes with #SlouchSockStyle and show us how you’re wearing yours!
💬 Final Thoughts
Slouchy socks are the perfect blend of fashion and function—a throwback trend that’s as comforting to wear as it is satisfying to knit. If you’re looking for your next cozy project that lets you play with yarn, texture, and nostalgia, slouch socks are the way to go.
So grab your yarn, pick your favorite pattern, and let’s knit like it’s 1992 (with better yarn).
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