Being a style risk taker can feel (literally) like you’re toeing the edge of the DON’T pages in Glamour. Mixing prints, the hotly debated PJs at work (hey, I’ve worn a swimsuit to work before… with pants, mind you), and here’s another one to add to the sartorial controversy list: socks with heels.

Alexa Chung’s been rocking them for years. And no way, José, do I mean white knee socks with slip-on sports sandals. I’m talking about those cute little open-toe sandals, the pair you don’t pack away just in case there’s a freak heat wave in January.

Here in New England, we’re entering into an eight-month season of tights and boots. I’m not ready for that type of commitment. Instead, I’m thinking Dolce & Gabbana Fall 2012 and easing into the cooler months with a slew of shoe and sock combos.

This post from Stylelist, which references the same Dolce & Gabbana collection, gives a quick rundown on how to get it right. Though I’ll admit it certainly is a toughie, this trend’s not as intimidating as it sounds.