How to Match Socks to Your Outfit

Not mere window dressing, socks are critical to getting a foot up on comfort and warmth and keeping your best foot forward.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Assorted Hosiery
• Athletic Socks
• Dress Socks
• Thigh-highs
• Shoe Inserts

1. Round out your sock wardrobe; pairs for athletics, evening wear, business and casual wear will prepare you for most activities.

2. Consider color, weight, length, shoe or boot choices, and the weather when making a sock decision.

3. Keep in mind that black, brown, gray and white go with most colors.

4. Select a heavier wool or thick cotton for heavier shoes such as hiking boots, oxfords or workman-type footwear.

5. Go for silk, nylon, thin cotton or hose with business shoes, evening wear or sandals (if you need to wear socks with sandals at all).

6. Remember that business suits dictate complementary color and weight choices; light socks don't make it with dark suits.

7. Wear socks or hose that closely match your business shoes. Nude stockings are neutral and almost always correct.

8. Choose crew or ankle socks with shorts; knee-length socks are palatable for British police officers or mail carriers.

9. Go for cotton crew or ankle socks with sneakers, tennis shoes or any other athletic shoes.

Tips & Warnings

• Read fashion and sports magazines for suggestions.
• Cotton socks, which absorb sweat, are best for athletic activities.
• Since wool socks keep your feet warmer, they're the best choice for long-distance hiking.
• A preference for patterned socks requires a sense of humor or a sense of moderation.
• Change your socks regularly for best health and well-being.

[crichards14]

on 8/27/2008 Please, someone tell me - For MEN only. Should socks match shoes or pants? It is so obvious in most situations, but I live amongst space scientists and rocket engineers (enough said?)- I see a lot of tan pants with tan socks and brown shoes - usually the pants are too short and the short sleeved shirt with the pocket protector is distracting so I forget to look at the socks, but occasionally I see brown socks and shoes with tan pants and I was wondering what the standard is out there in fashion land (the rest of the world).

on 11/22/2005 Never match your socks and your shoes it you are going for a dressy look. You should match the sock with you pants so it gives a continous flowing look between pant and shoe.