Simone Ashley—who stole hearts in Bridgerton—has just added another style moment to her resume, and this time, it’s straight off the streets of Midtown Manhattan.
Snapped on the set of her upcoming film, the British actress made heads turn with a fashion-forward look that proved once and for all: socks and heels are having a moment.
Making a Statement in Monse
Her outfit was anything but ordinary. Simone paired sleek, opaque black knee-high socks with glossy, black patent Mary Jane-style pumps.
The shoes alone were bold, but it was her Monse dress that truly caught attention.
Featuring a whimsical UFO print and black harness-style straps, the dress costs a cool $990 (around R18,500).
She wore it over a crisp white shirt with a Peter Pan collar—adding a playful, schoolgirl-inspired vibe to the ensemble.
According to WWD, it was a clever nod to youthful fashion with an edge.
Celebs Everywhere Are Embracing Socks and Heels
Simone isn’t the only star stepping into this bold trend.
Just days earlier, singer Ciara made her own statement in New York, sporting white socks tucked inside eye-catching Christian Louboutin Condora pumps.
Meanwhile, Keke Palmer brought the energy to New Orleans during the Essence Festival of Culture.
Her twist on the trend? Louboutin heels paired with sheer socks adorned with delicate bows.
“This look feels fresh,” Keke said. “It’s a playful twist on tradition, and I love how it changes the vibe.”
Local Voices Weigh In
Turns out, the socks-and-heels movement isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s practical too.
Durban-based fashion blogger Sipho explained why the combo is gaining traction locally.
“With our climate, socks and heels are practical,” he said.
“Nights can get chilly, but you still want to look polished.
Mixing textures and colours makes your outfit more dynamic.”
Once frowned upon, this combo is now a powerful fashion statement, embraced for its boldness and versatility.
Lights, Camera, Fashion—The Devil Wears Prada 2 Is in the Works
The fashion fever in New York isn’t limited to street style.
Production for The Devil Wears Prada 2 is officially underway in the city, and fans are buzzing.
Anne Hathaway is back as Andy Sachs—now a formidable player in the fashion media world—and Meryl Streep reprises her role as the no-nonsense editor Miranda Priestly.
Directed once again by David Frankel and written by Aline Brosh McKenna, the sequel will explore how Miranda navigates a rapidly changing magazine industry.
Nearly 20 years after the original film, the story—and the style—is back with a fresh twist.
South Africa’s Ready for a Style Revolution
Back home, don’t be surprised if this trend hits our own streets soon.
From Bree Street in Cape Town to Sandton Square in Joburg, South African fashion lovers are known for taking risks and rewriting style rules.
And with international stars setting the tone, the socks-and-heels combo could be the next big streetwear flex.
As Simone, Keke, and Ciara have shown—it’s not about following the rules. It’s about making your own.