Striped Style: The Sears Socks of the 1970s
In the 1970s, a pair of socks could say as much about you as your choice of sneakers or your haircut. Among the most iconic legwear of the decade were the bold, sporty socks sold by Sears. These socks, often adorned with brightly colored stripes around the calf, became a casual fashion statement in both athletic and everyday wear. They weren’t just functional; they were part of the outfit—a flash of color and personality visible between the hem of your shorts and the top of your sneakers.
This striped sock gained popularity around the same time as Pele flew over to American shores to bring soccer to the land where soccer was looked at as something weird. The sock was straight out of the football grounds from around the world and for some unimaginable reason it became a fashion accessory. Of Course it was sold “where America shops!”- Sears
The Sears striped socks were versatile, designed to match the era’s love of vibrant, eye-catching patterns. Available in a variety of color combinations—classic white with red, blue, green, or gold stripes, as well as darker tones—they could be coordinated with sports uniforms, gym class attire, or weekend outfits. For many, these socks were inseparable from the boom in youth sports and the rise of “athleisure” before it even had a name. A trip to the Sears catalog or store often meant choosing your stripes like picking a team’s colors.
Pop culture also helped fuel their popularity. From TV shows to playgrounds, you could spot these socks everywhere, worn scrunched down, pulled tight to the knee, or even layered over leggings in colder months. They carried a certain retro athletic vibe that fit right in with the roller-skating craze, track and field events, and backyard games. Whether you were a serious athlete or just hanging out, the stripes gave your outfit a playful edge.
What made these socks particularly fashionable was how they blended sporty function with casual style. Made from cotton blends for comfort and durability, they could withstand countless washings while still keeping their snug ribbed fit. The stripes, woven directly into the knit, never peeled or faded like printed designs might. In the 1970s, when polyester shorts, T-shirts with ringer collars, and colorful windbreakers were all the rage, these socks tied the whole look together.
Almost too coincidently- the striped sock went out of style right around the time the old North American Soccer League died. Anyone wearing them (other than on the soccer pitch) seemed very “disco” and out of date.
Today, vintage lovers and retro sportswear fans often hunt for original pairs—or modern reproductions—that capture the essence of that era. The Sears striped socks of the 1970s are more than just hosiery; they’re a nostalgic symbol of a time when everyday fashion was fun, unapologetically bold, and just a little bit sporty. They remind us of an age when the simplest accessory could be the thing that made your outfit pop.
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