Socks are the primary gift that every man will usually receive when it comes around to his birthday or at Christmas. Socks can make or break an outfit, especially if you are wearing a high quality suit: you don’t want to be let down by a pair of comedy socks! Let’s take a look at some of the things you may want to consider before filling up your sock drawer.
Sock Design
The design of your sock can make all the difference to your outfit. A plain colour like black is best for formal occasions and a good tip is to match the colour of your sock to the colour of your trousers. This way, you avoid the white socks-black trousers situation! White socks are usually sports socks of some sort so are best left for sports activities like jogging or going to the gym. If you’re going for a block colour, try to contrast or compliment it with something in your outfit such as your tie. If you have a neutral outfit, go for something bright or a pattern to create a stylish look. You can get some ideas on patterned and coloured socks here http://www.gq.com/style/wear-it-now/201206/best-colorful-patterned-socks.
Sock Materials
Cotton socks are the norm for most men and for good reason. They are durable and are easy to wash. You can also buy several pairs for a low price. If you are merely looking for an everyday sock to wear with boots or shoes then cotton is the way to go. If you are looking for something a little classier to wear with an expensive suit then pick a pair of silk or cashmere socks. During the winter you may want to pay a little extra for a thermal sock. Go for a good pair of wool socks as they are designed to keep in heat therefore will be worth it along with a pair of waterproof boots. There are also specialised sports socks which will help support your feet and help prevent excessive sweating. You can pay a visit to http://www.sockshop.co.uk/ to browse a wide selection of socks.
Occasion
Your socks should match the outfit you are going to wear if you don’t want to make a sock faux pas. Sports socks should be left for sporting occasions and comedy socks should be left for when your other socks are in the wash! You don’t want to be caught wearing your Homer Simpson socks when you are wearing your special suit! Longer socks are ideal if your trousers are likely to ride up and shorter socks are best left when you are wearing a longer trouser or tapered jeans. Save your cashmere and silk socks for formal occasions and dinner parties. Check out this article at http://www.fashionbeans.com/2012/three-common-mens-style-mistakes/ to discover when you should stick to long socks and when you should probably leave the sports socks at home!
Men’s socks are becoming a fashion statement in themselves so why not go for something a little more daring when you next go shopping? Socks can be more than just an essential so try out different patterns, styles and materials for a bit of variety in your sock drawer. If the most common gift your receive is socks then they might as well be stylish!