Guide
7 great socks that you can give away with a clear conscience
by Stephanie Vinzens
You'll knock your counterpart's socks off
4.10.2019
Translation: machine translated
Socks are probably the most underestimated Basic. A shame really, because this item of clothing has a lot to offer. If you combine them correctly.
Male colleagues keep asking me what I think of colourful socks. I like them, especially in combination with a dark suit. The splash of colour peeking out from under the hem of the trousers adds an exciting twist to an otherwise rather staid look. However, the right styling is not quite as easy as it may sound. I'll tell you how to skilfully showcase this trendy Basic.
Socks were long regarded as a means to an end: as a hygiene item that covers your feet and looks discreet. Until the combination of loafers and tennis socks suddenly became the ultimate in the 1980s. After that, the Basic went quiet until fashion label Vetements sent socks and T-shirts with the DHL logo down the catwalk almost three years ago. Suddenly, socks were being flaunted and celebrated by fashionistas. Tennis socks are particularly popular because they add the necessary coolness to any street style look.
Colour yay, comic nay: patterns
Be bold, but only to a certain extent. There are no limits when it comes to colour, but there are when it comes to patterns. This is because comic motifs can come across as ridiculous, especially at work. Attitude is important when wearing them. If you feel dressed up, you will radiate this. On the other hand, you can't go wrong with classic prints such as dots or stripes. It's a completely different story if you work in a creative environment. Then you can go for glittery or animal print styles. The important thing is that you feel comfortable in your outfit.
Are you unsure about socks? If you have to stick to a certain dress code in the office, focus on plain-coloured socks in muted shades. This even works in a bank.
White vs. black socks
Although I'm an advocate of black socks, I have to admit that white sneakers simply look better with tennis socks of the same colour. That's why I vow to do better and won't make any more negative comments about them in future. However, you have to be aware that you are making a statement when you wear tennis socks. If you wear a suit to work, white socks are taboo. Instead, match them to the colour of your two-piece suit.
Socks with sandals?
Yes, after all the hype about trekking shoes, ugly dad trainers and Crocs, it's no surprise that socks in sandals are totally wearable. Especially now that the days are getting cooler again, you can extend the wearing time of your sandals with socks. Think of the Teva trend.
Show your skin
If you're wearing a suit, I recommend knee-high socks or socks that end at calf height. Socks that slip down and expose your bare ankle as soon as you sit down or cross your legs are out of place in a meeting.
Colour concept
Are you a fan of eye-catching ties? Then your socks don't have to stand out too. In this case, I recommend a plain-coloured model that is either the same colour as your double-breasted tie or a shade that picks up on the pattern of your tie. Two different coloured or patterned socks, on the other hand, are too much of a good thing.
Last but not least
Old socks belong in the bin. Felted and faded styles don't look cool, they look unkempt. The same goes for washed-out socks. If, like me, you're not a fan of our throwaway society, you can wear them tucked into boots instead or turn them into cleaning rags.
Here's the sock range. You can follow my bundled buying guides by clicking on the button at my author profile.
When I’m not exploring the depths of the sea as an open water diver, I enjoy plunging into the world of fashion. On the streets of Paris, Milan and New York is where I keep my eyes peeled for the latest trends. And I’ll show you how to take them from the catwalk to your everyday life.
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