After years of white crews and sensible neutrals, socks are getting a little more interesting again. No, we’re not talking about “fun” socks or heavy patterns. It’s just that stylish guys are reaching for richer colors and unique textures—socks that have the confidence to be called hosiery. And they add just enough personality when you get a flash beneath a trouser hem. If you ask us, fall is the ideal time to bring them back. A pair of brick red socks with black loafers, mustard peeking out above suede chukkas or cobalt blue worn with a pair of chunky derbies can make an otherwise straightforward outfit feel a lot more styled.
It also fits with menswear’s gradual return to color after years spent comfortably wrapped in grey, beige and other dusty neutrals. These richly hued socks make for an easy entry point: inexpensive, low commitment and mostly hidden. If you’re in need of a little inspo, Mehmet Louis Noiré’s Instagram feed is full of cool combos. Wear them with basically any shoe and let a couple inches of color do the work. It’s not a shout. It’s more of a wink. And sometimes that’s all an outfit needs.
