When in Doubt, Go Dark
If you’re in a traditional industry or are having tea with a world leader, play it safe with black, brown or navy socks. This traditional look will keep you under the more rad. As much as we love colorful socks, sometimes it’s better not to stand out.
Try Adding Texture or Ribbing
Just because you’re wearing conventional solid socks doesn’t mean you’re left without options. For something with a bit more interest, experiment with texture. Ribbed socks are available in almost every neutral color imaginable and the seams add a subtle visual interest.
Wear No-Shows with Discretion
Beware of baring ankle in any formal environment — many conservative types consider no-show socks to be in poor taste, especially with suits. If you love making those types of people uncomfortable, more power to you.
Try Bold Solids
Use solid or color-blocked socks to add a sense of sartorial know-how to your look. Bold toned socks are the easiest way to dip your toe into thoughtful accessorizing.
Stripes, Dots & Argyle
The next safe bet for colored solids are stripes, polka dots or argyle. A three of these sock patterns are timeless and make for easy matching.
Coordinate Your Colors
When it comes to the question color, we suggest that you mirror your sock color with another color that you’re wearing above the waistline. This color continuity ties your outfit together. If however, you’re already great at color coordination, do as you like. At the end of the day, if it looks good, it looks good.
Avoid Pattern Matching
Avoid matching the pattern of your socks with a pattern that already exists in your look. If you’re wearing a polka dot shirt, avoid dotted socks. If you’re rocking an argyle sweater, avoid argyle socks. Matching pattern on pattern can look a little too deliberate — and not in a good way.
Going Bold School
Novelty socks are not everyone’s cup of tea but when done right, this is the just about the most fun you can have with fashion. These kinds of socks range from boldly tasteful to just plain tasteless, so step with caution.
Cuff or Crop Your Pants
If you really love your novelty socks, don’t hide them from the world. Try cuffing your pants or having them tailored with no break (or even cropped) in order put your socks on display.
Let Your Socks Be the Star
We’re big proponents of socks that show off your personality. But if you decide to rock a novelty pair, consider toning down the other aspects of your ensemble. The more toned down the rest of your outfit is, the more striking your socks will be in comparison.
Keep Your Sock Drawer Organized
The more organized you keep your sock drawer, the more likely you are to find the right pair for the right outfit. Instead of folding them inside out, try folding your socks and stacking them in a row horizontally. This will give you a great idea of what socks you’ve got at any moment.
Sock It to ‘Em
Whichever way you decide to sock up, make your choices pre-meditated and deliberate. At this point, there’s no good excuse for a threadbare sock drawer.