The Case Against Black Dress Socks

Person wearing gray plaid pants and black dress shoes crosses legs. Beige background with a green check mark in a circle on the right.

Introduction

Black dress socks have always been an unchallenged piece of formal menswear—but let's be honest, they're boring.

Growing up I always saw black dress socks as an essential component of the male wardrobe.

I saw them at weddings, school-dances, and banquets, and while I do think they serve a valuable function, I don't think they should be the default choice.

So, today I want to tackle the black dress sock and hopefully leave you feeling inspired to switch up your socks with my recommendations.

But first, let’s start with my story.

Close-up of crossed legs in gray pants and black shoes on wood floor. Background shows blurred brown chairs. Relaxed mood.

Falling for black socks

In high school, I felt so happy to switch from white socks to black socks.

At 16, I was ready to tell the world that I was different, so I asked my mom to buy me black ankle socks because the most fashionable guy at school had them.

Compared to the stained white mid-calf socks I had grown up wearing, these black socks felt sleek. Plus, they matched my black belts!

My love for black socks naturally influenced my choice of dress socks, causing me to fall into the trap of choosing black dress socks without any thought.

While I was busy worshiping the black sock and all of its conjugations, another trend was happening: the fun sock movement.

Brown leather shoes with colorful striped socks and gray pants on a striped rug. Background features a soft yellow border.

Falling for non-black socks

Everywhere I turned I saw loud, colorful, and vibrant socks that demanded attention.

Why would you wear socks that distract from your outfit? I remember thinking as I continued to wear black socks.

I thought that non-black socks were unprofessional and childish, but I was so wrong.

Non-black socks don’t distract from the outfit; they complement it.

When polka-dot socks are used to create an accent color, they make an ordinary outfit exciting.

Man in a blue suit sits cross-legged on a chair. He's wearing green socks with dots and brown loafers. Wooden panel background.

When striped socks match your sweater, it shows just how much you love the print/color.

Man in striped shirt and jeans, sitting on a white couch, wearing blue striped socks and shoes, looking thoughtful, light background.

Well-chosen socks can take an otherwise unfashionable outfit and make it fashionable.

Since making the switch, my socks have started to get compliments, and I think that more men could experience this if they opened themselves up to something new.

I've always been one to enjoy showing my ankle, so why not put something there that I'm proud of?

Black dress shoes and white socks with plaid pants, set against a white door on a carpeted floor.

So, I've been looking for new socks to buy, and these are some of the ones that are on my radar.

I think you should check them out too.

On My Radar - Charles Tyrwhitt

Charles Tyrwhitt is a great choice for socks if you want a high-quality choice that’s a strong investment without being too expensive.

Best Option: Charles Tyrwhitt - Multi Sock Gift Box ($59)

Budget Friendly: Charles Tyrwhitt - Micro Dash Socks French Blue & White ($17)

My Favorite: Charles Tyrwhitt - Cotton Rib Socks - Sunflower Yellow ($17)

On My Radar - Southern Scholar

Southern Scholar is another menswear brand I’ve heard has great socks. I think Southern Scholar is a great choice for someone who wants great quality and a lot of options. I also love that they sell socks either mid-calf or over-the-calf length. I prefer mid-calf, but I'm glad they give you the option.

Solid Sock: Southern Scholar - Solid Dress Sock ($25)

Polka Dot: Southern Scholar - Polka Dots Dress Sock ($25)

My Favorite: Southern Scholar - Fuchsia Ribbed Solid Dress Sock ($25)

Honorable Mention: Southern Scholar - Sprinkle Dress Sock ($25)

On My Radar - Amazon Essentials

Amazon also has a lot of great choices if you’re willing to dig through their assortment. You can figure out what you like without having to worry about price.

Best Option: Amazon Essentials - Green Patterned Dress Socks ($19)

Budget Friendly: Amazon Essentials - Cobalt Blue Patterned Dress Socks ($19)

My Favorite: Amazon Essentials - Mini Stripe/Stripe Patterned Dress Socks ($19)

Conclusion

Embracing dress socks that aren't solid black is an easy way to add character, personality, and intentionality to the way you dress.

Whether it's a fun stripe or a simple polka dot, there are so many socks out there.

I used to feel like I was wearing the same outfits over and over again, but patterned dress socks have given me something to look forward to.

And that's why I love fashion.

Thanks for reading!

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