“One can never have enough socks,” once said Albus Dumbledore, from Harry Potter. For the ultimate style, men should care about what socks to wear. As important as the tie or the bow, a good pair of socks never go unnoticed.
On the contrary, socks with holes or stains show a lack of style. One of the best styling options is to match your socks with your trousers. Today, socks make the entire difference in your outfit.
Whether it be to keep warm in the winter, for sports, or for work, wearing socks should never be underestimated. So which socks are best for you? How should you choose your socks? And should you wear them? Keep reading.
The origin of socks
Did you know that sock history can be traced back to the 8th century BC? Discovered in Greece, socks are perhaps the oldest type of clothing ever. In one of his poems “Days and Works”, the Greek writer Hesiod refers to “Piloi” which is a type of sock made from animal hair.
Yet it wasn’t until 1000 BC that socks started to become everyday wear. However, socks were not always used for their functional purposes. Later in the 5th century, tights and socks were worn by holy people to symbolize purity.
With the invention of the knitting machine in 1589 by William Lee, an English clergyman, socks could be knitted quicker and spread over Europe. In 1938, the introduction of nylon was going to revolutionize the entire textile industry — including the production of socks.
Today, in the 21st century, socks are worn for multiple purposes, from fashion to protection. Cotton was largely used until the 17th century, then nylon took over for its elasticity and strength.
Different materials and fibers
Wool was used as one of the earliest materials for sock production. Yet today, wool socks are luxury items. Wool socks are comfortable and bring protection to the feet — will it be for hiking or for winter. Often blended with synthetic materials, wool socks keep the feet warm and absorb moisture.
Cashmere is a soft wool fabric and is another luxury blend for socks. Cashmere keeps the feet warm and protected. Extremely soft and silky, cashmere socks are easy to wear and very discreet. Thin and premium materials such as cashmere and silk make socks elegant, perfectly suited for a nice tuxedo.
Cotton is another common material used to produce socks. Cotton fiber is inexpensive and durable. Mixed with lycra, cotton fiber socks provide an excellent fit for the feet.
This material is great for outdoor and everyday wear since it’s resistant. Cotton fiber socks can be washed at high temperatures with detergent, making them a great choice for easy maintenance.
Nylon fabric is one of the most useful synthetic fibers and is great for activewear. Traditional fibers such as wool and cotton exist by nature while nylon results from a chemical process.
Nylon has a number of advantages such as resistance and abrasion. Being resistant to sunlight, nylon is used for producing activewear, including socks. Furthermore, nylon is elastic.
Types of socks
Whether it be for fashion or sport, socks serve different purposes.
Athletic performance socks
Athletic performance socks are made of heavier weaves, boasting a higher concentration of insulating fibers. If you go running, hiking or biking, performance socks offer the best protection and comfort. If you go running, go for compression socks, which will encourage blood flow throughout the body.
For those interested in weightlifting, choose rub-resistant materials socks that keep the feet warm even when they are wet. If you are a cyclist, go for light running socks that are versatile and will keep away moisture.
Dress socks
Dress socks are commonly used to fit a man’s suit or casual clothing. If you want to reach the next level in menswear, rocking dress socks are a must! Dress socks offer plenty of creative possibilities to achieve a one-of-a-kind look. From traditional dark to black colors, to more versatile shades and colors, dress socks are a must for any sophisticated gentleman. Remember to avoid socks entirely made from synthetic fabrics.
Japanese socks
Japanese socks are very unique and though not worn by Westerners are worth checking out. Having experienced the wonders of Japanese socks myself, I felt I needed to mention them. Perhaps, you noticed that Japanese socks were split between the big toe and the other toes. These socks are worn for traditional tea ceremonies in Japan, or simply to wear with a kimono even today. In fact, these socks are the best element of the utterly weird and cool Japanese fashion.
If you go to Japan, you may notice strict sock etiquette as people love commenting on socks. In some regions of Japan, walking bare feet on a tatami is seemed rude. If you fancy Japanese socks, go for modern tabi, which is the contemporary version of the traditional split toes socks, but blended with modern materials.
7 golden rules when wearing socks
Don’t go for black:
Whatever you may think, black isn’t that trendy anymore for men. Too common, black socks can lack identity so wear them with caution. The standards to wear socks have shifted and black socks don’t always go.
Long socks can be cool:
It’s alright to wear long socks depending on the occasion, season, or style. To wear long socks, use either shorts or cropped pants, and play with various shadows or layers.
Never forget to wear socks:
Not wearing socks is unacceptable, it seems to show a lack of hygiene, and second, it makes your style unfinished. Even in the summer, go for low ankle socks.
Play with patterns or colors:
Follow the British rules and dare to wear pink, orange, or red for socks. Match your socks with your pants and be careful when choosing the materials. If you wear cotton pants, go for cotton socks.
No stains, no holes:
Take care of your socks. There’s nothing worse than seeing a man wearing socks with stains or holes. Play the cards of sophistication, and wear socks that are well taken care of.
A pair of socks should be worn in pair:
You can be creative when wearing socks but don’t go against common sense. Do actually wear a pair of socks, and not two separate socks as this may look awkward.
Good socks, good man:
Try to be as sophisticated as possible with your socks. Research trendy styles or colors, and stay abreast of men’s fashion. Women like any man who properly takes care of their style, socks included.
The right sock length
No-show socks: As their name indicates, these socks can easily be hidden inside your shoes or be worn with sandals. Wear white for the most hidden look.
Ankle socks: Covering your ankle, these socks are perfect for autumn or spring. Unnoticed, ankle socks show a timid personality without compromising on style.
Crew socks: Designed to sit at mid calves, crew socks offer the right warmth and protection and often feature a ribbed section at the top.
Long socks: Just under the knee, these socks provide the best length for cozy winters in Montreal, Oslo, or Berlin.
Where to shop fashionable, high-end socks
Visit your favorite department stores or go online. Spend time to look for colors, patterns, textures, and take your girlfriend (or boyfriend) with you. Look for the right size. Also visit top brands such as Dolce & Gabbana, Prada, or Alexander McQueen, and find out when their new socks arrive. Learn how to take care of your socks, and ask for guidance from the sales consultant to maintain your socks properly.
When in Japan or in the UK, visit the most fashionable neighborhoods such as Savile Row or Soho in London, and shop for trendy sock designers. William Hunt or Richard James are some of the coolest high-end sock designers you may find in London. In Japan where streetwear is king, try out some utter cool sock designers such as Chup or Anonymous Ism.
Final tips
Love your socks and learn how to tidy them up in a secure place in your home. Messy socks are uncool.
If you travel, keep your socks in a separate section so you can easily find them at your own convenience.
Don’t lose your socks in the washing machine! If you happen to miss the second sock, look around for it.
If one of your socks is damaged or stained, consider washing them at the appropriate temperature with a stain remover.
Don’t overwash wool or cashmere socks. These materials are precious and require special care, especially when they are washed.
Look up “trendy socks for men” on Google and find out what’s on-trend. If you attend a wedding ceremony, make sure to go for a pair of socks that fit your tuxedo.
If you go hiking, consider another pair of socks, just in case your pair gets wet or dirty.
For Father’s day, don’t hesitate to get a nice pair of socks for your dad. Socks are amazing gifts, especially after you read this guide and know exactly how to buy men socks.