Why are Gucci, Versace and other luxury brands playing around with footwear and accessories this season?

Almost anyone these days can buy an item similar to what they see on the runway and style it to look unique and expensive without breaking the bank. High quality shoes, however, are the exception to that rule.

This explains why shoppers are willing to spend so much more on footwear than any other category in the luxury market, according to market research company NPD. Good footwear never goes out of style and has the power of changing an outfit’s entire look. This is especially true in the world of streetwear, where loyal fans are willing to wait in long queues for limited-edition trainers. The same happens when major fashion houses release their coveted seasonal shoe.

And the obvious accessory to pair with shoes? Socks. In recent years, it has been all about luxury socks clashing with a good shoe and completing the look of an outfit. There are various socks and stockings, ranging from glittery and complex prints to vibrantly colourful and patchwork style that shoppers are eager to buy because they are a more affordable way to glam up one’s look.

This season, though, is all about stockings. Marc Jacobs is offering lace and silk stockings paired with open-toe shoes and short dresses with ruffles. The most impressive look from the brand is a lilac-and-canary organza sculpted dress cinched at the waist, paired with vibrant, woven stockings and open-toe shoes in a gold hue. The stockings create an illusion of continuity that is striking. There is also a pair of brown stockings with a cute trio of orange hearts on the sides that adds the right amount of fun, cheeky detail.

Gucci has come up with red fishnet stockings to pair with slit dresses and skirts. The pop of colour amplifies contrast and makes for a smooth transition from day to night. Another highlight from the brand is a sparkly Kermit green, high-collar, qipao-like dress worn with black fishnet stockings and a pair of flats.

When it comes to shoes, it is all about fancy adornments and embellishments. For their final stint as creative directors of Kenzo (before being succeeded by Felipe Oliveira Baptista), Humberto Leon and Carol Lim created a stunning pair of Japanese-inspired open-toe boots, embellished with a floral design reminiscent of a watercolour painting.