How to wear colourful socks the gentleman's way

Colourful socks are a trendy fashion accessory for men but can be intimidating to wear. Whether you are a fashion lover, love expressing yourself, or simply want to spice your look, colourful socks are always the right choice regardless of your style or aesthetic.

However, the question always rises about how to wear them.

Here are some styling tips when it comes to matching the socks to the outfits.

Wear them with casual outfits

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Nothing says 'casual' than letting your fashion sense out when going out or on Friday at work. When the theme is casual, let your imagination run the show on what socks to wear. If your outfit is mute, go for the crazy pattern and funkier socks.

When in doubt, imagine if someone you know wore them.

Match the outfit

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Casual outfits allow for crazy colourful socks. Semi-formal events where you dress business casual can still allow room for slightly crazy colourful socks but don't go overboard.

When it comes to formal events or outfits, make sure the colour of your socks matches the colour of your suit or tie.

Let your pants guide you

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Try matching your socks to your pants. The socks may have a similar base colour to your pants or have a slightly off-tone. Blue jeans, for example, can work well with blue socks. However, jeans allow for a wide range of patterns and colours so trust your fashion sense.

Don't hem your pants higher to show your socks

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A recent trend in men's fashion is decreasing the length of pants. Although this allows you to show your colourful socks, it also makes your pants look ill-fitted. You want to show enough sock to catch the eye but not draw too much attention. Keep your pants at an appropriate hem length and play around with the shoes to show your socks. You can also opt for shorts.

Stay away from clashing colours

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Don't be inspired by festive season colours to wear socks that clash with your outfit. For example, don't wear red socks on green pants. A little clashing can be daring and come off well but avoid it as much as possible. You risk looking silly. Here are some tips on colour clashing that can help you move past this stage.

Choose patterns that don't compete with the outfit

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If your outfit has articles that are loud and patterned, avoid socks with patterns. Look at your outfit and check for opportunities to clash. Another way to clash is with the setting. Read the room, as the saying goes, and find a fitting pattern that won't offend the environment or tone of the event.

Avoid wearing colourful socks in these situations

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Tuxedo occasions and funerals are a no-go zone for colourful socks. They can kill your tux and make you look weird. They can also make you come off as immature and very out of place.

Experiment!

Colourful crazy socks are about letting your personality show through your outfit. There's not much or anything terrible that can come from it. It is a harmless way of trying new things. Most of them can be matched to any outfit with good judgement.

How to wear colourful socks