The Sock Types Every Businessman Needs

Like & Follow Us On Facebook!

Pinterest

Socks have come a long way over the centuries. From a plant-based foot covering to the stretchable comfort of many textile blends, our feet most definitely get good treatment. As a wardrobe piece, socks follow only a few specific rules.  Often socks are worn more to keep feet comfortable in shoes than for any other reason. But before we take a look at the types of socks every businessman should own, let’s look at some of the sock rules for men. 

Sock Rules For Men

Oddly enough, that strange tube of fabric you slide over your foot comes with a few interesting guidelines about what is appropriate for any given occasion. Here is a quick look at some of the sock rules for men.

 1 – Wear It Right

Socks should be pulled up as far as they will go. Socks come in several lengths and whatever length you are wearing should be pulled up and fit smoothly over your leg or ankle. In sum, don’t roll socks down your ankles and don’t let them bunch up or slouch. 

2 – Choose The Appropriate Socks

Your sock choice should be based on the type of day you have ahead of you. This means that your stock style on a casual day should be different from what you would wear if your day is formal and work-related. On travel days, a still different style of sock would be appropriate.

How To Select The Correct Socks

Socks come in three basic styles: low-cut sport socks, ankle- or midcalf-dress socks, knee length socks. Here is how you decide which is the best choice for your needs. 

Style #1 – Low-Cut Sport Socks

The name says it all. They are shorter than your average sock and meant for wear during sporting activities. These socks are cut typically below the ankle but rise just enough to be above the cuff of an athletic running shoe. Often made with a wool/nylon blend, they are durable and will absorb moisture to keep your feet dry.

Style #2 – Ankle-Dress or Mid-Calf Socks

Most of the socks in your sock drawer probably fall under this category. These socks come in various textile blends and offer the greatest selection of colors, patterns, and designs. According to No Cold Feet, this is the correct category for argyle socks.

Style #3 – Knee-Length Socks

These are the longest socks you will own. Depending on your wardrobe, you may want to include a few pairs of these in your collection for when you prefer the confidence that comes from a taller sock. If your calves are visible during the day, you should opt for a pair of knee-length socks just to keep you looking dapper in your work attire.

The Main Materials For Socks

We’ve indicated that socks are available in various materials – often a blend of two or more – but we haven’t explained what those materials are. Here is a breakdown of the top four sock materials. 

Material #1 – Wool

This is at the top of our list simply because it is the most popular choice of yarn for socks. Wool keeps feet warm in the colder months and cool in the warmer months. When blended with other fabrics, wool adds durability and strength.

Material #2 – Cotton

Cotton is another very popular sock material simply because it does the same basic thing as wool when considering temperature control for comfort. Cotton is also lightweight, more affordable than wool and is easy to blend with other materials to create comfortable and durable socks.

Material #3 – Synthetics

If you lead an active lifestyle, you already appreciate the resilience that synthetic socks bring to your arsenal. They won’t stop you from sweating but they will last you a good, long time.

Material #4 – Cashmere/Silk

Of course, you won’t wear socks with these yarns in them just casually around the house. Socks with cashmere or silk are strictly for those black-tie occasions where you are dressed to the nines.

Choosing The Correct Sock Color And Pattern

Below is a simple guide to assist you in choosing the perfect sock for the occasion. You can thank us later.

For A Casual Look

The length of your socks should be shorter and the color should be bright and bold. Funky patterns are also a good idea for casual wear.

– Ankle-length dress sock

        Cotton for summer wear, wool for winter

– Go for bright colors but make sure that at least one color in your socks matches a color you are wearing in your outfit

– For A Formal Look

Longer socks will do the trick here. Opt for high-end sock materials and keep the color selection toned down.

– Knee-length socks

– Cashmere or silk socks (depending on your budget)

– Stick to “formal” colors such as black, navy or grey. Try to pick a color in these families that matches the primary color of your suit.

One Final Tip: Match Socks To Accessories When Possible 

Disclaimer: You do have to be careful about what you are trying to match and whether or not it throws off the balance of your complete outfit. There are times when bright, bold socks that scream “look at me” are appropriate.  At other times this choice could lead to whispered uncomplimentary comments. Pay attention to your footwear. If you are wearing a dynamic pair of shoes or boots, don’t overpower them with loud socks. Matching your socks to the pattern or color of your shirt or handkerchief is always a safe move.

In Conclusion

Socks are awesome! They are far more than just something to cover your feet when you wear shoes or boots. Socks keep your feet warm in winter and cool in summer.  They come in various materials, each of which provides special properties ranging from comfort and durability to moisture-wicking and resilience. They come in many different styles, colors, and patterns so that you can show off a bit of personality when you are dressed casually or formally. This is just so much better than grass sandals, isn’t it?