Rick, Hose tops are mostly worn with military and band uniforms. I would say that 99% of the time they are worn with spats or gaters. About the only other way they could be worn is with boots or high top shoes as you wouldn't want the space between your regular socks and the hose tops to be seen. Some companies now sell the full length diced hose that can be worn with any shoe. Check the J. Higgins web site!