What's Up With the Japanese Girls with Loose Socks?

One of the more unique fashion styles in Japan is the "Loose Socks" style.  Loose socks are usually worn by female high school students when they are hanging out, usually outside of school.  Most schools don't allow the school girls to wear them during the school day, but of course there are exceptions at some schools.

[Image Credit: Colodio]

At first look you might think, "What the heck are they wearing, leg warmers?".  Well, at least that's what I thought at first.

[Image Credit: Colodio]

Why do Japanese girls wear loose socks?  Well the best answer I got was that with their school uniform skirt hiked up and the big loose socks on it gave their legs the appearance of being long and skinny. Kind of like a tall model.  I guess if you think about it, this fashion does give an optical illusion of longer and skinnier legs.

[Image Credit: sainz]

This fashion has also hit the Cosplay scene as it is often seen in manga and anime.


Another thing I learned from an old girl friend of mine that liked to wear them even several years after she finished high school, is that there is a special glue for loose socks. This "special" glue helps them stay exactly where the wearer wants.  I laughed when I heard this!! The things girls will do for their fashion...