Beyond Fabric • Sock it up

Sock it up

As I’ve mentioned in previous posts, this year has seen a growing acceptance of the no socks-no break look.

Everywhere you look, people have been wearing rolled up jeans/chinos or cuffed suit pants well above the ankle line, showing off their bare skin and military shined footwear. Until a while back, when temperatures were high, it seemed like the perfect look to pull off…However, as the cold winter days are upon us, one will certainly feel the need to protect his exposed ankles from the freezing wind and rain (I for one, do).

So, if like me, you’re struggling to conciliate both ensemble and comfort, you know there’s no way around it: your socks will be out there for the world to see. As such, you might consider investing in a fine collection of assorted socks.

When doing so, you should keep in mind that depending on color, texture, fabric and pattern, socks may bear different levels of formality and suitability to outfits. Even in a time when the matching rules of old no longer apply, this is something than can make or break a look.

If you’re going for a more formal attire, stick to thin cotton socks in classic solid colors such as charcoal, navy, black, etc. Other than that, why not have some fun? Consider them a part of your overall look, one you can tweak and incorporate accordingly, either by pairing with other items or making it pop out.

Navy heavy knit cardigan by Massimo Dutti, hunter green oxford button down by Ralph Lauren, jeans by Levi’s (511 Slim), brown tasseled loafers by Lottusse, tartan scarf by Ralph Lauren, argyle socks by H&M and watch by Rolex.

Interesting alternatives are not always easy to find, but here are a few to get you going: