As a great fan of quality shoes, I often find myself glancing at the shoes of people as they walk by, and one thing I’ve noticed recently is a lot of chaps often forget about the importance of socks.
Image from Swagger 360
Yet this seems a little remiss, as they are a rather integral part of dressing every day. If a man takes care of his shoes – it’s often said – you can assume he takes care in everything he does, and I think I’ve come to the conclusion that this point should really refer socks. What a lot of men often ignore are the details, which are more evident distinguishing the difference between a serious outfit and a weak one.
However there is a glimmer of hope, it seems that gentlemen are taking more risks in their personal style, by wearing more colours to express themselves much more, but I find that the socks sometimes get left out of the arrangement. Different socks suit a different occasion; you can tell those who take an interest in their socks, as they match them to their trousers, which is what my grandpa taught me.
Matching socks to ones shoes can dull the footwear somewhat. I’ve also been told by some of my more sartorially-inclined friends that they like to match them to their accessories. My point is they should act independently, a chance to add a little colour and create a unique look. Paul Smith is a great campaigner for coloured socks, traditional with a twist, you might say.
Mostly socks come in three different types, low cut, ankle cut and knee length. I prefer knee length or ankle when dressing for work, and no socks when it’s warm. Cashmere socks are the extremely comfy alternative, great with a wool suit in the winter. If you’re in the market for some new pairs, try Pantherella, Paul Smith or Richard James, all part of my personal collection.
Yes this seems to have turned into a sockey rant, but for those of you with an interest in quality shoes/garments, it really is an essential detail which needs to be taken into consideration when purchasing such lovely shoes, please take care of those cotton friends.
By Christian Kimber at stylesage.co.uk
