Gentleman’s guide: socks or no socks?
The sock department is one that is all too often bypassed by gentlemen the world over. Socks aren’t given much consideration and are more seen as a functional and practical item rather than something that should take serious sartorial reflection.
But, as a gentleman, you should know that the opposite is in fact true; that socks can actually make or break an outfit and that they should be as considered a part of what you wear as your shirt or jacket. Yes, they are of course a practical item but what a lot of men forget is that they actually are on show to those around you for the majority of the day, but what we will say is that there are times in a gentleman’s life when socks aren’t actually necessary. So when to wear and when to not? Read on and find out how not to commit a sartorial sin.
Socks should generally be worn on a daily basis. If you’re a gentleman who goes to work in a suit and shirt everyday, you need to be wearing a pair of socks. This may seem obvious but you’d be surprised at the amount of men we’ve seen who just haven’t bothered – either that or they’ve chosen to wear the most hideous pair they could find.
Socks are important; the mark of a true gentleman is one who has considered every element of his outfit – from his pocket square right down to the socks we wear. If you’re wearing brogues, derby shoes or monks, you need to be wearing socks. Not only is it going to be pretty uncomfortable (and unhygienic) to not wear socks, but it’s also going to look incredibly unstylish.
Boat shoes, loafers and anything with any kind of an open foot require no socks and as a gentleman you should never think otherwise (think of this as being in the same category as wearing socks with sandals). If you’re partial to a slip-on or low-top trainer, socks should also be avoided – for extra style points, roll up the bottom of your trousers so that you are very subtly showing an inch or so of ankle.
We’d always recommend investing in decent socks for matters of comfort, longevity and style. No gentleman should ever even begin to entertain the idea that novelty socks are still okay; there is absolutely no excuse for reindeer socks – even if your mother did give you them for Christmas. You’re a gentleman who represents class and style and wearing a beautiful pair of socks is essential to achieve that.
Paul Smith three pack socks, £40
Falke merino wool and cotton socks, £12
Bresciani herringbone cotton socks £18
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