If your socks are visible, you’re either a middle-schooler going through a growth spurt, or a trendspotter. Statement socks have been popping up in the fashion world for a few seasons now, and they aren’t hard to find if you keep your eyes at ankle-level. They were on the runways at the most recent New York Fashion Week, according to Marie Claire, and French fashionistas showed off their (sometimes lumpy!) socks in The Cut’s January slideshow of Paris street style. It all begs the question: how can non-Parisians flaunt their socks without seeming like preteens? To investigate, we paired three fun pairs of socks with non-gym shoes. (We threw in some suggestions on what to wear above the ankle, too.) RUFFLE SOCKS Model is wearing: Eyelet Ruffle ankle sock, Urban Outfitters ($12), and pumps by Steve Madden. Insider sock fact: The ruffles are like having an extra head of hair on each ankle. They can get (minor) cowlicks, and they sometimes go limp. To keep them looking fresh, fluff them regularly. Try wearing this look with: Some tomboyish pieces that contrast with the girliness. For warm weather, try these Madewell boy shorts ($64.50), a plain sweatshirt like this terry-cloth Gap one ($39.95), and a punky bag, like this one from Nasty Gal ($90). PATTERNED SOCKS Model is wearing: Magic socks by Stance ($14), and oxfords by G.H. Bass. Insider sock fact: These socks feel great. They’re one-size-fits-all, so they’re ultra-stretchy, and they really hug your foot like they care about you. Try wearing this look with: Ankle-length dark pants and a slouchy sweater, like this rich brown one by A.P.C. ($295), or a button-down (top button buttoned!), like this simple chambray one from American Eagle ($39.95). SHEER SOCKS Model is wearing: Sheer-backed socks by Rachel Comey x Hansel from Basel (no longer available, but browse similar socks in the Hansel from Basel store), and platforms by Rachel Comey. Insider sock fact: These socks look like stockings from the back and textured tights from the front, but unlike either, they aren’t prone to toe-holes—their toecaps are made of sturdy sock material. Try wearing this look with: Something bright. The colors here are pretty muted, so you could try any color, including this tangerine-colored dress from Modcloth ($49.99). Top photo: Andrew Nawrocki, Groupon; all other photos: Mae Rice, Groupon