Types of Socks
Plain and Dress Socks
If you are more old school, plain or dress socks are the way to go! Standard black, plain grey and navy make the best dress socks, but even white socks can work depending on your outfit and where you are going.
The Rules
- If you’re unsure about styling your socks, stick to something plain or a classic pattern such as argyle.
- Keep the colour of your dress socks matching to your trousers for suits.
- Choose a pair of socks that are either a shade darker or lighter than the trousers you’re wearing.
- Plain white socks and suits are a no-no
The Shoes: Formal Shoes
Classic black dress socks paired with a smart tuxedo and formal shoes will make you look extremely dapper while pairing plain grey or navy socks with formal shoes will give you a sophisticated look.
Textured Socks
If you like the idea of plain socks but want to give your outfit a bit of an edge then textured socks are the way to go! Just remember that textured socks can add weight to a look!
The Rules
- Choose a pair of socks that are either a shade darker or lighter than the trousers you’re wearing.
- Pair your textured socks with pieces made from similarly heavy/rugged materials for your trousers such as denim, wool or even leather.
- The socks may make your shoes a bit tighter so take this into consideration.
The Shoes: Desert Boots
Bright Statement Socks
Bright, statement, coloured socks have made a comeback in recent years with men becoming more conscious and confident to wear fashionable, vibrant colours.
The Rules
- Bright socks are generally not for funerals, important work meetings or really formal black tie events; colourful socks with suits are acceptable – just not at a funeral perhaps?
- Wearing bright socks are very ‘out there’ and you need confidence to pull it off!
- When choosing what colour socks to wear, compliment or contrast correctly otherwise they will clash and look like a disaster.
- If stuck with what colour to wear you can buy socks with more than one tone of colour shown above!
Patterned Socks
Patterned socks are actually quite versatile and easy to style. A simple white T-shirt with either indigo or black slim jeans and a pair of low tops (black or white) will make these socks stand out, making your day more comfortable and stylish. Or you can even wear them with a suit for a more snazzy look.
The Rules
- Wearing patterned socks with your finest suit is a pretty bold statement; it takes confidence.
- Patterned socks are best paired with trainers for a much more casual style.
- Keep your outfit simple when wearing these as you want them to be the main focus of attention.
- Try to choose socks in a pattern with a base tone that matches the colour of trousers you’re wearing.
- You can even co-ordinate your patterned socks with a pocket square.
- When it comes to patterns, it never hurts to stick with classic dots or stripes.
The Ankle Sock
Ankle socks are actually the best thing to wear with trainers, so you cannot see the sock yet your feet are comfortable protected by it when taking part in sport activities or even on a daily basis.
The Rules
- Invest in some ankle socks that aren’t visible when you wear your trainers.
- Make sure your ankle socks are very comfortable.
- Ensure the ankle sock fits perfectly as they usually have a bit of elastic material which hugs your ankle.
- You can experiment with colour, although it’s not necessary and neutral colours look best.
