The saying that men are dressed from down to up wasn’t only referring to the shoes. Many men overlook their socks, as these are seen as accessories that you throw on when you’re rushing out of the house, without much thought put into it.
Although it seems like no one cans see your socks, it never hurts to learn how to wear them the right way. Whether you want to look smart when you go to work, make a great first impression, or simply ensure you look good from head to toe, it’s important to learn how to wear your socks.
Types of Socks
The first thing to consider when wearing your socks is the type that you are wearing. You can’t wear mid-calf socks the same way you wear no-show socks.
Over the Calf (OTC) Socks
One of the best ways to keep your socks from pooling around your ankles is by buying OTC socks, although they aren’t as popular as they used to be. But if this is a major concern, you should definitely look for these socks at retailers around you. It appears outdated, but the truth is, no one will actually know the type of socks you’re wearing.
Mid-Calf Socks
Regardless of what you’re wearing, mid-calf socks always do the trick. From dress shoes and boots to sneakers and loafers, this style of socks always works. Plus, they are pretty popular, so you can easily find this type of socks in any material, color, thickness, or pattern. Your sock drawer should be chock-full of this type of socks.
Ankle Socks
Except if you’re going to the gym or going for physical activities, you shouldn’t wear ankle or athletic socks on a daily basis. They sit slightly above your ankles to prevent chafing as you walk. If you have no choice but to wear ankle socks, you should go for black ones.
No-Show Socks
Finally, you can go for no-show men’s socks, as they also match with almost any outfit except for boots, sandals, or high-tops. These kinds of socks aren’t only great for wearing shorts, as you might have been led to believe. If you choose the wrong shoes, you will end up with blisters on your feet.
Sock Materials
Another thing you should think about is what your socks are made of. When it comes to socks, there are five main materials to consider.
Cotton
When it comes to socks, cotton should be your go-to choice. This material is known to be lightweight, durable, breathable, and will last for a long time. Plus, they are pretty affordable.
Cashmere
If you want something more luxurious, you can go for cashmere. Although they are really comfortable and super soft, they require a lot of care, especially if you want them to last long.
Wool
It’s pretty easy to find a pair of socks made with wool, as this is also one of the most popular materials for socks. They help keep your feet warm when the weather is cold and cool when it gets hot.
Silk
If you’re going for formal affairs, then you should wear silk. Although these are not practical, as they are expensive and don’t last as long as other types, silk socks will definitely add the flair you might be looking for.
Synthetics
Finally, you can go for synthetic socks. Except you’re buying it for athletic use, you shouldn’t wear 100% synthetic socks. It is best when it’s blended with wool or cotton.
Dos and Don’ts of Wearing Men’s Socks at Work
Here are some dos and don’ts that you should keep in mind when wearing your socks at work.
- DO pair your socks with your outfit color-wise.
- DO experiment with bold colors and patterns.
- DO wear mid-rise socks.
- DO match dressy socks with dressy outfits.
- DO pull your socks up.
- DO match your socks with your skin tone.
- DON’T wear socks with shorts (at all, ever).
- DON’T wear white socks except you’re going to the gym.
- DON’T get used to wearing novelty socks.
- DON’T put on knee socks.
- DON’T wear socks when wearing sandals.
- DON’T wear socks in bad condition (just buy new ones).
Common Mistakes Men Make
Here are some common mistakes that men make with socks, and they don’t even realize it.
Wearing Your Dress Shoes with Any Socks
You should only wear dress socks with dress shoes, and nothing else. Even if your socks are black, if they are not designed for dress shoes, you will end up with some bunching at your ankle and a bad pairing with your leather shoes.
Exposing Your Skin
If you’re wearing socks, but we can still see the skin between the socks and the ends of your trousers, then your socks are too short. You should wear socks that don’t show any skin. And if you are wearing ankle socks, they should be with sneakers or loafers.
Socks and Shorts
You shouldn’t wear any type of socks with your shorts except they are no-show socks. No-show socks aren’t only meant for women, and it would be much better than walking around looking like you’re dressing to go to private school.
White Socks
Only wear white socks when you are going to the gym or doing any other physical activity. Wearing white socks with any other outfit is a big contrast and just a fashion fail.
Rolling and Folding Your Socks
Another act that can make you look like you’re wearing a uniform is folding or rolling your socks. It’s a sloppy act that will add unneeded bulk around the ankles, so always pull your socks up.
Novelty Socks
It might be fun to wear novelty socks, but this is an old trend. Except no one can see them, you should avoid wearing these socks as much as possible.
Always Wear Your Socks Well
You should keep your sock drawer organized, as this makes it easy to find socks that go well with your outfit. It’s also a good idea to stock your sock drawer intentionally, with good choices that will always come in handy.
Whenever you’re not sure of what socks you should wear, simply go dark. You’re always safe with black, navy, and brown socks, regardless of the occasion. And you can pair these with mid-calf socks, as these are also a safe choice.
