Lace sock are the new girly thing.

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There is something unfashionable about the socks and sandal look but, the socks with heel look works really effectively. I guess it depends on what type of shoe you go for.
The lace sock however remarks to be delicate and makes a shoe more comfortable to wear.
The vintage type of style works best for this type of sock. That's just my opinion. Not dissing the goth/emo lace sock look that can create amazing combinations of clothing.

The whole "socks in sandals" look is seen as a fashion don't, right. Switch the sock to a lace one and you have a very girly look  and can work with a sandal too, just not in a flip flop or on the beach.

If you're a goth, indie kid, vintage etc you can add a lace sock to your everyday look and it will not stick out as if you've added a lace scrunchies to your leg. It will compliment the look. It all depends how many patterns and other lace elements are in the outfit.

I'm always reminded by the childhood white socks with the band of lace on top when I see lace topped socks. Like these:

Then again they are becoming very stylish to wear in a heel shoe. They're pretty for evening decoration in an outfit.