How strong is your sock game?
You just woke up. Late. You have an important meeting this morning. You only have 15 minutes to get dressed, grab a coffee and run before you’re late. You have a really nice suit ready, stylish tie. Your pocket square is on point. Your shoes are perfectly polished.
The last touch is your socks. Your success depends on it. You can’t wear white socks. Those will ruin your whole attire. Go with black and you won’t be noticed. You’ve chosen differently. You’ll impress with the splendid, cashmere, herringbone socks that complement your outfit. Now you’re ready to take control of the meeting and really show your client that you’re worth their time. It’s all because you’ve read Socks: The Rule Book.
“Socks…” is really a remarkable, and wholly informative, read. It goes through previously unimagined detail of the sock industry. With this rulebook we learn everything about men’s hosiery. Starting from washing, ironing and storing, through to being able to aptly pair socks with outfits, and eventually complement them.
Pencil stripe, pinstripe, chevron stripe, tartan or gingham?
We learn that white socks are just not acceptable. Not to mention beige! I never thought there could be as many types of pattern – pencil stripe, pinstripe, chevron stripe, tartan or gingham to name a few. Is it fine to wear certain types of socks with sneakers? What should we wear with full suit? What about a smart-casual outfit?
This book’s advice is exhaustive. I was a bit sceptical when I picked it up in the bookstore, as I pride myself on my sock game. I thought there was nothing more to be learnt about socks. How wrong I was.
I learnt some fun facts about socks that I can now brag about. Pink socks are fine, as long as you’re not of a “fair complexion” and if you’re a brave man. I also loved the witty and colourful language of the book. It’s really joyful.
The book is exceptionally well curated, including many carefully chosen illustrations and pictures of “strong sock game.” Produced under the patronage of Sock Club London, it encourages readers to become a member of this interesting society.
All in all, the book is fun a read. It can be consumed within a few hours. It can also be very helpful for gents who would like to bring their sock game up to a whole new level.
Job interviews, client meetings, pitches – I’m a huge believer that socks can really make you stand out. A note of caution though: I believe that such rules are not definitive. After all, it’s all about individual preferences and style.
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