15 Dress Socks for Men Worth Buying This Summer
How to choose great dress socks. How to style them. And when to wear which ones.
Don’t sleep on socks, guys.
I know it sounds silly. But I mean it. Don’t sleep on your socks.
A lot of you don’t care. And I get it.
Oh, little socks. Just a piece of fabric no one sees, hiding under your pants. So basic. So whatever. Who cares what’s on your feet as long as the suit looks good, right?
Wrong. Not true.
I was working on a post about men’s linen suits when it hit me.
We spend thousands on suits and hundreds on shoes and treat socks like they don’t matter. But they do.
Picture this: You’re sitting at a café, iced latte in hand, wearing a clean white linen suit.
You cross your legs and your navy dress socks with white dots peek out. You see it, right?
Now tell me that doesn’t look a hell of a lot better than some sad, thin black socks you can basically see through.
It makes a difference. Trust me.
Here’s the thing you’ve probably heard before but I’m gonna say it again because that’s what we do with facts. Repeat them until they sink in.
Details are what set you apart. And when it comes to men’s dressing, little things like socks and ties are how you do it. That’s how you show a little personality.
So again, don’t sleep on your socks, okay?
And about ties? I’ll get to them later, trust me. I definitely have things to say. But today’s all about socks, alright?
Today, I’m gonna tell you how to choose great dress socks, how to style them, and when to wear which ones.
And most importantly, I’m giving you 15 picks I actually took the time to research and pull together for you.
So sit back, relax, and scroll through.
I hope you find a pair (or three) you actually wanna wear.
But first, please read this….
Table of Contents:
Guys, I don't know how I managed to write so much, but somehow I did. When I finished this post, I found it's over 4,200 words with nearly a 20-minute reading time. I know that's a huge turn-off for some of you. So I made this table of contents, just click on whichever section interests you and jump straight there, okay?
15 Socks That Actually Look Good
o Gold Toe Harrington Crew Socks
o Polo Ralph Lauren Men's Assorted 4-Pack Soft Pattern Dress Crew Socks
o Calvin Klein Men’s Dress Socks
o Pantherella Pembrey Sea Island Cotton Crew Sock
o Bombas Men's Dress Calf Socks
o Happy Socks 4-Pack New Vintage Socks Gift Set
o Todd Snyder Merino Dress Sock in Gray
o Joseph Abboud Solid Dress Socks
o Bresciani Cotton Pin Dot Long Socks
o The Tie Bar Merino Wool Stripe Charcoal Dress Socks
o Darn Tough Vermont Merino Wool Dress Crew Light Socks
15 Socks That Actually Look Good
1. Gold Toe Harrington Crew Socks - The Friend You Can Count On
Price: $16.25–$42.01 for 6–12 pack ($22.00–$44.00)
Link: Gold Toe Harrington Crew Socks
I recommended this sock in my 20 Menswear Pieces Under $100 post this Wednesday, and I’m starting this list with them too, so you know they’re good.
This is one of the best men’s dress socks if you want a pair that just works every single day.
And about Gold Toe, you’ve probably heard of them. But if you haven’t, they’ve been making socks since 1934. Back when things were built to last. So you know, you can count on them.
Harrington Crew Socks are no-show men's dress socks. They’re not trying to be fancy. But you can wear them for 14-hour days. Through airports and meetings and long walks home and they’ll just quietly do their job.
Best for: office guys, commuters, and travelers who need socks that last through flights and layovers.
Why I love it:
Cushioned sole brings all-day comfort
Reinforced toe lasts longer (they don’t get holes easily)
No flashy patterns for guys who want to keep it simple and versatile
Used premium combed cotton that is ultrasoft and breathable
They use this moisture control technique that helps you stay fresher and drier
2. Polo Ralph Lauren Men's Assorted 4-Pack Soft Pattern Dress Crew Socks - The Quiet Rebel
Price: $24.00 for 4-pack ($30.00)
Link: Polo Ralph Lauren Men's Assorted 4-Pack Soft Pattern Dress Crew Socks
Sometimes you want to be a little extra but not too much. And these socks are perfect for that.
I used to only wear black and white. For shirts and socks and everything. But after turning thirty, something changed in me and I started loving a little pattern, a little pop of color.
If you're the same, these socks are made for you.
One thing I love about Ralph Lauren is that they know not everyone wants a giant logo screaming at people. Their classic polo player on horseback done in subtle gray looks so much better. Clean, quiet, and classy.
Best for: Smart casual events like weddings, business casual environments, or office guys who want to keep things classic with a little personality.
Why I love it:
Comes as a 4-pack so you get variety without commitment
Patterns are interesting but not loud
Soft cotton blend that's comfortable for all-day wear
Colors and patterns work with most business casual outfits
3. Calvin Klein Men’s Dress Socks - The Simple Choice
Price: $9.87–$14.99 for one pair (depends on color or size)
Link: Calvin Klein Mens Dress Socks
White spots on a solid color are one of my favorite sock patterns. They're subtle, interesting, and classic. But that's not the only pattern Calvin Klein offers. There are plenty of other options like solid colors, stripes, and various patterns to choose from.
Most guys know Calvin Klein for underwear, but their socks are definitely worth checking out too.
Best for: Daily wear, work, or any time you want comfortable, quality socks.
Why I love it:
Made from luxurious Egyptian Cotton blend, these men's crew socks are soft and comfy and durable
Promotes air circulation, keeping your feet cool, dry, and fresh all day
Comes as a 4-pack so you get variety without buying individual pairs
4. Pantherella Pembrey Sea Island Cotton Crew Sock - The Special One
Price: $44.00 for one pair
Link: Pantherella Pembrey Sea Island Cotton Crew Sock
Okay, now let's level up your sock game a little! This cotton blend uses 80% Sea Island cotton. And you know? That's where the price jumps up. Because It's the kind of cotton that feels like touching a cloud.
I know this sock costs more than some shoes. But they'll be worth it.
Best for:
Formal environment (Important work meetings or presentations)
Weddings (yours or as a guest)
Date nights or anniversary dinners
Job interviews
Business travel when you want comfort that looks professional
Why I love it:
80% Sea Island Cotton and 20% Nylon. Durable as wool but cooler on the skin and easier to care for
Solid navy color makes them super versatile with any outfit
Fine-linked toes for seamless comfort (no weird bumps!)
Reinforced heels and toes for extra durability
5. Bombas Men's Dress Calf Socks - The Comfort King
Price: $16.00 - $18.00 for one pair (depends on color or size)
Link: Bombas Men's Dress Calf Socks
You might’ve heard of Bombas or even worn their socks and loved them without knowing why they're so good, but you just know they are.
Let me tell you why.
Bombas' founders, David Heath and Randy Goldberg were inspired to start the company after learning that socks are the most requested item in homeless shelters. They then set out to address two main goals: To create the best socks possible and to donate socks to those in need.
So you know how good they are.
These dress socks have padding in all the right places. The seams are so smooth you forget they're there. And honestly, they're not pricey at all considering the quality.
Plus Bombas operates on a "buy one, give one" model, which means they donate a pair to someone who needs them for every pair you buy.
Comfort with a good heart. Indeed.
Best for:
Daily office wear and business casual outfits
Long days when you're on your feet a lot
Travel (the comfort features make flights and walking around much better)
Why I love it:
Mid-calf height makes them more casual than traditional dress socks
The cushioned footbed and honeycomb arch support for all-day comfort
Y-stitched heel and stay-up technology keep them in place
Extra-long staple cotton feels premium but breathes well
6. Happy Socks 4-Pack New Vintage Socks Gift Set - The Mood Lifter
Price: $32.00 for 4-pack ($64.00)
Link: Happy Socks 4-Pack New Vintage Socks Gift Set
When the brand name is Happy Socks, you know how much happiness these socks can bring, lol. But honestly, it's not a joke. Look at these colors, patterns, and that huge “HAPPY” text.
Sometimes that’s all you need, you know? A little color or fun pattern peeking out from your pants is enough to change your whole mood. Wear them when you need to remember that work doesn't have to be sad and boring.
Best for:
Gifting (this literally comes in a gift box!)
Guys who like expressing themselves through fashion
Anyone who wants to add some personality to their wardrobe
Breaking up an all-neutral outfit with a fun surprise
Why I love it:
Reinforced heel and toe for durability
Vintage-inspired designs that feel both nostalgic and fresh
Comes as a 4-pack, so you get variety in one purchase
Quality cotton blend that's comfortable, not just pretty
7. Todd Snyder Merino Dress Sock in Gray - The Magic Sock
Price: $48 for one pair
Link: Todd Snyder Merino Dress Sock in Gray
Okay, we've talked about cotton blend socks, now let's let’s talk a little about wools. Not regular wools. Merino wool, the good stuff.
So let me explain what is it, okay?
While all wools come from sheep but they’re different. I’ll use an analogy but don’t get me wrong, alright?
We humans all have hair (I mean when we are born), but the hair color and texture are different. Asian hair tends to be thicker and straighter and harder, European hair is often softer and thinner, and African hair is thicker and curlier.
Now replace humans with sheep. You get it, right?
Merino wool comes from Merino sheep. If you've ever worn a regular wool sweater, you know how itchy it can be. But merino wool fibers are super thin and smooth, which makes them way less scratchy and more comfortable against your skin.
So you know Merino wool is good stuff and Todd Snyder takes this amazing wool and makes dress socks with it. One thing I didn't mention about Merino wool is that it's naturally temperature-regulating and odor-resistant (nature's magic indeed), which means these socks are warm when it's cold, cool when it's hot, and they don't smell bad even after long days.
And because Todd Snyder also throws a little nylon for durability and spandex for stretch, these socks last longer and stay in place.
Best for:
Cold weather days when you want your feet warm
Long workdays
Business travel
Guys with sensitive skin (I’m one of them guys)
Business attire
Why I love it:
Made in Italy (you know that means quality!)
High-quality stretch merino blend that's soft, fine, and holds its shape
Ribbed top keeps them perfectly in place all day
Natural odor resistance means fresher feet
The gray color works with everything
8. Joseph Abboud Solid Dress Socks - The Safe Bet
Price: $17.99 for one pair (or 3 for $30.00)
Link: Joseph Abboud Solid Dress Socks
Look, I know not everyone wants to spend $50 on socks and I totally get it. But every man needs socks he can count on, right? So these Joseph Abboud ones are for you. They just hit that sweet spot between good and cheap.
Good construction. Classic colors. Fair price.
They are 97% polyester. You know this is a great sweat-wicking fabric, right? This means goodbye to sweaty feet and no more squeaky sounds with every step you take.
And the other 3% is spandex, which enhances stretch.
I love their black dress socks with the little white diamond spots, but there are other colors and patterns available if you want to mix them up.
Best for:
Professional business settings
Special events like weddings (whether it's yours or you're a guest)
Any occasion where you need reliable, comfortable dress socks
Why I love it:
Soft fabric blend that feels good all day long
Mid-calf height that stays put
Just the right amount of stretch for comfort without being too tight
Clean, minimalist styling that works with any dress shoe
9. Bresciani Cotton Pin Dot Long Socks - The Italian Beauty
Price: $40.00 for one pair
Link: Bresciani Cotton Pin Dot Long Socks
These are the socks you grab when you're wearing your best suits. Made in Northern Italy by a family workshop that's been making socks for over 50 years. If you're familiar with Italian craftsmanship, you know the kind of care that makes Italian fashion so famous.
Personally, the pin dot pattern is the classiest pattern when it comes to dress socks. It's interesting but not screaming for attention.
These socks feel expensive because they are. But they also feel worth it.
Best for: Your nicest suits, fancy events, luxury business attire.
Why I love them:
Real Italian craftsmanship from a family that knows what they're doing
Hand-linked toes so there's no weird bumpy seam
Light cotton blend that actually breathes
Pin dot pattern hits that perfect classy-but-not-flashy sweet spot
Elevates your whole outfit from good to great
10. The Tie Bar Merino Wool Stripe Charcoal Dress Socks - The Smart Buy
Price: $11.00 for one pair ($22.00)
Link: The Tie Bar Merino Wool Stripe Charcoal Dress Socks
Another Merion wool dress socks. You know what’s the difference? The price!
You already know Merion Wool is good stuff, right? And you also think It means it’s pricy because Todd Snyder is. Surprise, these are half the Todd Snyder price.
Now you’re probably thinking, does that mean the quality is half as good too? Don’t worry, okay? They’re solid. These are made with 70% Merino wool, just 10% less than Todd Snyder. That’s still more than fair.
Honestly, Sometimes it’s the brand that makes the price difference. If these were from Gucci, they’d be like $200. Don’t get me wrong. Todd Snyder is totally worth it. I mean it! I’m just trying to say don’t let the price be the only way you judge quality.
And let me tell you something more exciting. They are currently 50% off!
Best for:
Office and work meetings
Job interviews
Weddings and formal events
Date nights with a dress shoe moment
Everyday business-casual outfits
Why I love it:
Great material at a good price
The thin stripe adds just enough interest without being loud
Charcoal works with almost everything in your closet
11. Darn Tough Vermont Merino Wool Dress Crew Light Socks - The Forever Promise
Price: $25.95 - $32.03 for one pair (depends on color or size)
Link: Darn Tough Vermont Merino Wool Dress Crew Light Socks
Okay, I should've probably started with fabric specs but I just can't help myself to tell you about something almost unheard of in fashion. Darn Tough offers a lifetime promise. For socks! Can you believe it? These socks wear out? They'll replace them. No questions asked. Forever.
I know it’s the Vermont made quality that backs up big promises. The Merino wool blend feels incredible. But that promise is still special.
Best for:
Office days (Professional and comfortable )
Travel
Gift giving (who doesn’t love a gift with a forever promise?)
Why I love it:
Built light, darn comfy, and super strong-substantial construction for a Lightweight, sure fit
Mid-Calf Height. A go-to, working height
Knit with 55% Merino Wool, 42% Nylon, 3% Lycra Spandex. That means it’s not just smooth and comfy but all-weather wearable
Last but not least. Guaranteed For Life
12. J.Crew Ribbed Dress Socks - The Classic American
Price: $10.99–$20.99 for one pair (select colors, $24.50 — extra 60% off with code EXTRA)
Link: J.Crew Ribbed Dress Socks
You can't skip J.Crew when it comes to menswear. Doesn't matter what piece you're talking about!
These ribbed dress socks capture that timeless spirit J.Crew is known for. Simple, classic, and comfortable.
They come in different colors, but all are solid colors without any patterns save for the ribbed texture. Perfect for building a wardrobe that will look good and stay interesting for years.
Best for: Weekend events, business casual settings, or building a classic wardrobe foundation.
Why I love it:
Classic solid colors with ribbed texture - timeless but still has visual interest
Versatile enough for any season or occasion
Machine washable (for lazy guys like me, this alone is worth it!)
13. FALKE Men's Shadow Striped Dress Socks - The Perfect Machine
Price: $31.00 - $51.63 for one pair (depends on color or size)
Link: FALKE Men's Shadow Striped Dress Socks
Let me cut the fluff and get right to the juicy part. This is a sock from a family-run premium German brand founded in 1895!
Look, the German brand is already a win, but since 1895? That's a big yes!
German care applied to sock making. FALKE's attention to detail shows everywhere. From the perfect fit to the way, the shadow stripes create a quiet texture.
These keep their shape and comfort wash after wash. Perfect work at its finest.
Best for: work and leisure. Gifting (Great as a Christmas, New Year, Easter, or Father's Day gift).
Why I love it:
German heritage brand (of course! Germans know what they're doing)
Made with fine Scottish cotton thread ( works for both summer and winter)
Contrasting toe and heel colors with reinforced, flat seams for comfort
Ribbed elastic top and special knitting process designed specifically for men's feet
Shadow stripe pattern adds texture without being loud
14. CDLP 6 × Mid Length Socks - The Clean Choice
Price: $110.00 for 6-pack
Link: CDLP 6 × Mid Length Socks
Another European brand! This one's from Sweden.
You know that simple and clean design Swedish brands are known for, right? Think IKEA! Yes, that exact feeling!
CDLP is no exception. Look at the colors. Gray, black, white, and olive. And textures too. Are beautifully simple.
These mid-length socks work perfectly with modern suits. Clean lines. Good construction. Honest materials.
They understand that sometimes the best design is the one you don't notice.
Best for: Modern professional looks, minimalist wardrobes, or anyone who appreciates understated quality over flashy details.
Why I love it:
Made of mercerized organic cotton (feels premium, looks refined)
Fitted construction that actually stays in place
Reinforced toe and heel for durability
Discreet logo - no unnecessary branding
That perfect mid-length hits just right with suit pants
15. Kingsman Ribbed Cashmere Socks - The Special Day Sock
Price: $55.00 - $110.00 for one pair (depends on color or size)
Link: Kingsman Ribbed Cashmere Socks
Oh guys, the real king on this list: The Kingsman Ribbed Cashmere Socks.
I hid it down here because I didn’t want you opening this list and rolling your eyes right into last week.
Why are they pricey? Maybe because they're 100% cashmere?
Pure cashmere socks are one of life's small treats. These aren't everyday socks, mind you! They're for big moments, once-in-a-lifetime days.
Kind of a turn-off? You can't machine wash them - Dry clean only. But honestly, I wouldn't throw a $100+ sock into a washing machine anyway. Darn no!
Best for: Moments that matter (wedding days, big presentations, first dates, or anytime you want to feel absolutely premium).
Why I love it:
100% pure cashmere (the ultimate in luxury)
Rib-knitted construction stays in place all day
Navy color gives off that luxury vibe without being flashy
An investment piece that makes every step feel special
What I Learned About Picking Socks
The Material Truth
Cotton: Breathes well and washes easily.
Merino wool: Is magic. It keeps your feet at the right temperature in summer and winter. It doesn't smell bad. It's incredibly soft.
Silk: Pure luxury. Cool against the skin. Naturally shiny. Perfect for special occasions.
Synthetic blends: Can surprise you. Modern ones like polyester are designed for sweat-wicking. Don't ignore them completely.
The Fit Truth
Over-the-calf dress socks are the best! They stay up all day and create clean lines when you sit down. You never have to pull at your socks under the table.
Crew length dress socks hit mid-calf. Good for most situations, though they might slip with some shoes.
No-show dress socks work with loafers and casual shoes, but they're not right for formal wear.
How to Wear Socks Right
The Big Matching Question
Should dress socks match your pants or shoes?
Match your pants!
Let me explain.
When you sit down, you want a clean line from pants to socks. Matching your shoes creates a break that makes people look at your ankles.
Navy blue dress socks with navy pants create a smooth style. Black socks with black pants disappear completely. That's exactly what you want.
Color Wisdom
Safe always works:
Black socks with dark suits
Navy with navy or charcoal
Gray with gray suits
Brown with brown suits
But if you want a little more fun:
Red socks add warmth to navy or gray suits
Forest green works great with charcoal
Quiet patterns like spots can make solid suits more interesting
When Different Socks Matter
The Office
Like I said, match your pants!
Black dress socks are safe. The Navy works with everything. And if you want fun dress socks with patterns, save them for casual Fridays.
Client Meetings
Keep it clean and simple!
You want to be remembered for your ideas, not your socks. Go for classic colors, good materials, and perfect fit.
Weddings and Special Events
This is where you can have a little fun. Think of nice details and subtle patterns.
Job Interviews
Play it totally safe. You have one chance to make a first impression. Don't let your socks steal the show, okay? Let your skills be the thing they remember. Unless you’re interviewing at a fashion brand, then they might actually get it.
Taking Care of Your Socks
Good socks need good care. You don’t want your $50 pair wrecked in the first month, right?
Washing tips:
Turn them inside out
Cold water (!important), gentle cycle
Skip the fabric softener (it breaks down elastic)
Read the care instructions. Some socks can't be machine washed
Drying tips:
Air dry when you can
Low heat if you must use a dryer
Never twist or squeeze wet socks (!important)
Storage tips:
Fold or roll, never ball up (!important)
Keep pairs together
Use drawer dividers to stay organized
Building Your Sock Collection
Start with:
Three pairs of black dress socks
Two pairs of navy
Two pairs of charcoal gray
One pair of brown
Add Later:
One pair of red for warmth (I don't know why, I just love red socks)
One or two pairs of forest green or olive for interest
One pair of fun dress socks for personality (think Happy Socks)
One fancy pair for special occasions (think Kingsman)
Quality Over Everything
Look, this applies most of the time. For dress socks too!
I'd rather own five pairs of great dress socks than twenty pairs of okay ones because they last longer, feel better, and actually cost less per wear over time.
The math is simple. Great socks cost three times as much but last five times as long. They're an investment in daily comfort.
FAQs About Men’s Dress Socks
What Makes a Sock a "Dress Sock"?
Okay, this is probably the question you want answered.
Here's what makes dress socks different:
Dress socks are thinner, longer, and made from better materials like merino wool and cashmere. They're made to work with dress shoes and nice clothes. They often have cushioned soles and reinforced toes so they last longer.
How Many Dress Socks Should You Own?
Ten to twelve pairs minimum!
I know it sounds like a lot, but if you don't want to run out of socks while some are being washed. Then it's not a lot. And please throw out your old thin socks that are almost see-through.
Are Expensive Socks Really Worth It?
Yes. But not because they're expensive. Because they're better.
Good dress socks made with merino wool are pricier than cotton ones because merino is a higher quality fiber. It keeps your feet cool in summer and warm in winter and it also wicks sweat to keep them dry.
And cashmere dress socks are even pricier. Why? Because it’s softer, rarer, and more delicate.
Simple, right?
The Bottom Line
If you made it here, thank you! And also, I believe you've learned some basics about dress socks? Now you should agree that socks aren't just pieces of fabric that wrap your feet. They matter too, right?
But, listen. Whether you start with cotton socks for everyday comfort, invest in merino wool dress socks for special occasions, or even splurge on cashmere, make sure they're actually worth every penny, cool?
What do you think about dress socks? Or what's your dress sock story? Leave a comment, I’d love to know your thoughts.