I posted some thoughts on the socks up/socks down issue in my blog a while back:
http://blog.albanach.org/2006/04/new...ock-style.html

I, too, think that to pull this look off requires a boot of some type. It's a visual thing. Also, this is definitely a casual look. Not for formal wear.

As for me, I consider myself a kilt traditionalists and on a hot day in the summer, and I am dressing casually, I will wear sandals in a heartbeat. Nothing wrong with it. Again, this is for casual wear only. With a t-shirt, polo shirt, or a casual short sleeve button shirt.

Highlanders were known historically for going bare-legged after all!

One of my favorite MacIan prints, the MacQuarrie, shows the figure in mid-calf boots and no hose!
http://albanach.org/macquarrie/MacQ.jpg

Aye,
Matt