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Men’s Style Tips: How to Wear Knee-High Socks

Blog, Men’s Style Tips • 16 January 2023

Ever wondered what the difference between our mid-calf socks and our knee-high socks is? And how to wear knee-high socks? Well, sock sartorialists, let us enlighten you. 

Knee-high vs Mid-calf

Our mid-calf socks sit, as the name suggests, comfortably mid-calf. This length is generally the go-to length for most and offers a lovely fit and contemporary look. The knee-high dress sock is a perpetual style classic. For those looking for a clean, elegant silhouette under your tailoring worthy of Savile Row, over-the-calf socks are the quintessential choice. Our Simply Sartorial Knee-High Socks pay homage to the classic foundations of menswear without being old-fashioned. And because they offer a bit more leg coverage, knee-high socks are nice for adding a touch of extra warmth in cold weather. No need to keep our over-the-calf Simplys for winter wear only though. Thanks to the lightweight Scottish Lisle cotton knit, they are lovely in summer too.

Why Wear Knee-High Socks?

Knee-high socks are the epitome of old school, Savile Row elegance. While ankle and mid-calf styles rose to prominence in the late 1980s and 1990s, knee-high socks remained the go-to style for many traditional sartorialists. Knee-high socks sit comfortably just below the knee and prevent any flashes of skin while crossing your legs, staying put all day because of their extra height.

How to Wear Knee-High Socks With a Suit

The most common companion to knee-high socks is suit. You can count on knee-high dress socks to pull together a look for any professional or formal occasion. Our Simply Sartorial Knee-High Socks feature our signature rib design and are lightweight enough to sit underneath a fitted trouser without feeling bulky. Ideal for the office, for smart events and always a firm favourite with wedding guests and grooms.

How to Wear Knee-High Socks with Jeans

Knee-high socks naturally go with formalwear. However, there is no reason why these longers socks can’t be worn with casual looks. For a low-key evening event or Sunday lunch at the pub, pull on some knee-high socks with your jeans. Knee-High socks provide a bit of extra coverage and feel great on. 

What Shoes to Wear with Knee-High Socks?

Our Simply Sartorial Knee-High Socks are carefully designed to smoothly fit under dress shoes – from brogues to loafers and even formal slippers – and are a tasteful choice for formal events, such as weddings. Lightweight and breathable, our Simply Sartorial knee-high styles can even be a polished companion for your more casual shoes. Ultimately, over-the-calf socks are incredibly versatile. 

London Sock Company’s knee-high socks come in individual colourways of Ebony Black, Navy, Rich Burgundy, Saffron and Earl Grey, and are available in an elegant four-pair box – an inspired gift or set from a traditional sock drawer update.

To browse our knee-high sock styles, click here. 

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