How to Choose the Best Socks

Most guys wake up to the daily struggle of picking out an outfit - and shoes - and accessories. The little details often get overlooked, sometimes purposefully and other times not. However, these little details are actually so crucial as they pull the entire outfit together, right down to the shoes and even more particular, the socks. Here to help with this exertion is a concise guide to finding the best socks for each type of shoe.
Whether you are enhancing a classic look or simply avoiding a fashion disaster (i.e. gym socks with a suit), it is paramount that every guy pays attention to his socks. Aside from basic functions like protection, perspiration and comfort, socks are one of the only undergarments visible to others. Don't forget about these small-scale necessities when opting for an impeccable look.
First and foremost, there are a few rules never to be broken, and some other things to keep in mind regarding socks:

• Rules
• Both socks must match
• No holes or stains
• Correspond to the dress level of your outfit
• Opt for knee-length over ankle-length when wearing pants. Don't let any flesh show!
• Fiber
• Wool
• Most traditional
• Best insulation (to warm your feet when cold and cool them when warm)
• Absorbs moisture
• Cotton
• Most common
• Relatively inexpensive and durable
• Fused with other fibers for a snug fit
• Lightweight
• Machine washable
• Cashmere
• Similar properties to wool but far less cumbersome
• Luxurious
• Proper care required
• Silk
• Second most luxurious
• Formal fabric for formal affairs
• Delicate; not very durable
• Proper care required
• Shorter lifespan
• Designs
• Neutral
• Professional or black tie events. Match the color of the sock to that of your pants.
• Can be worn casually as well.
• White socks are exclusively for working out.
• Colored
• Pastel or bright colors will pop!
• Try to accent colors already in your look. Contrast or complement.
• Patterned
• Do not match the pattern of your sock to another pattern in your look.
• Do not go overboard with patterns.
• Boot socks
• Ideally paired with chunky boots.
• Provides exceptional comfort.
• Can serve as a central point for color.
• Care
• Hand wash nicer socks with fine fabric soap
• Hang dry your nicer socks. (Read the label!)
• Fold or roll socks in drawer rather than stretching out the elastic.
• Refresh sock drawer three to four times a year, at least.
• Tips
• Avoid wearing socks with shorts when possible. Although this look can be pulled off, you're stuck with the dilemma of either folding your socks down, which is never recommended, or wearing them straight up - yikes!
• Pair socks with another color in your outfit. Seek out the scarcer colors for an unconventional style.
• Select complementary colors to keep it simple.

The type of sock must also be considered. For example, athletic socks should be restricted to working out - no matter what. Dress socks must accompany a fancier ensemble, but can be suitable with a more casual get-up as well. Bulky socks should fit comfortably in the shoe – no one likes a tight squeeze!
Regardless of the season, socks are a necessity. Reserve going sockless for sandals, boat shoes, and between the sheets.

 

 

 

 

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