Our buying guide—fact-checked by menswear expert Eric Twardzik—will help you find the perfect pair without second-guessing yourself. We've also compiled 10 of our favorite pairs from among the best-selling men's dress socks on sites like Amazon to help you kickstart your search. Whether you're suiting up for the office or a special occasion, a solid pair of dress socks can help you look polished and confident all day.
Quick List - Top Men's Dress Socks
Polo Ralph Lauren
Athletic Socks That Can Double as Dress Socks
Eric Twardzik is a Boston-based writer specializing in classic menswear. His writing has appeared in Esquire, GQ, and Robb Report, among other websites and publications. He also publishes “The Search Continues,” a newsletter about substance and style at Substack.
With over a decade of weightlifting experience, Christopher Heffner is an avid fitness enthusiast who enjoys starting his day with a good workout. He also has a background in engineering and business, bringing a unique blend of technical knowledge and practicality to his endeavors.
The expert oversees the Buying Guide only, and does not determine the products and services featured.
Every mybest article is crafted with hours of in-depth research and interviews with experts. Each month, we are continually expanding our database of products based on our research. By emphasizing user insight and reliable information, we deliver trustworthy content to readers.
While all types of socks are designed to cover the foot and provide a barrier between the foot and shoe or boot, the primary differences lie in their intended use and aesthetic. Dress socks are crafted explicitly for formal occasions, often paired with suits or tuxedos and formal footwear. They are typically made from high-quality materials, have a sleek design, and come in classic colors like black, navy, or gray.
In contrast, casual socks are more versatile and can be worn with casual attire like jeans or sportswear. They come in various materials, colors, and patterns and are often designed for comfort and functionality rather than formal elegance.
We recommend looking for socks in your size range to ensure the ideal fit. Unlike shoes, socks aren't typically made in individual sizes but for a range, given their stretchy nature. A properly sized sock will be snug enough to prevent bunching yet loose enough not to restrict the movement of your toes.
The sock's material impacts how warm or cool it feels, how it is best cared for, and, of course, the feel of the fabric.
Wool and cashmere are excellent for warmer socks, especially during colder months. These natural fibers have fantastic insulating properties that help keep your feet warm and cozy. Wool, in particular, is known for its moisture-wicking abilities, drawing sweat away from your skin to keep you dry and comfortable. On the other hand, cashmere is incredibly soft and luxurious, providing superior comfort and warmth.
Cotton is popular for warm-weather socks due to its breathability and softness. It effectively wicks away moisture, keeping your feet dry and preventing discomfort. Additionally, cotton is easy to care for and machine-washable, making it a practical choice for everyday wear.
Polyester is a synthetic fiber that offers durability and affordability. It is resistant to wrinkles, fading, and shrinking, making it a long-lasting option. Polyester socks are also easy to care for and machine-washable. While they may not be as breathable as natural fibers, they are a good choice for those who prioritize durability and cost-effectiveness.
For a truly luxurious sock experience, consider materials like silk and bamboo. Silk is incredibly soft and smooth, providing a sumptuous feel against the skin. It also has temperature-regulating properties, keeping your feet cool in summer and warm in winter. Bamboo, another natural fiber, is known for its softness, breathability, and antimicrobial properties. It's an excellent choice for those with sensitive skin.
When selecting the perfect pair of socks, it's essential to consider the specific occasion.
Opt for darker, more conservative colors like black, navy, or charcoal gray when attending formal events. These classic colors complement formal attire and provide a polished, professional look. As a bonus, these timeless colors will stay in style.
Feel free to experiment with brighter colors and patterns for casual or festive occasions. Choose socks in colors that coordinate with the rest of your outfit, such as a colorful tie or pocket square. You can even look for more unorthodox patterns to add a playful touch to your look.
If you want socks that can be worn with various outfits, opt for subtle patterns like stripes or small geometric designs. Sticking to colors you commonly wear elsewhere in your outfit will help, too. Even a lighter blue pattern on your socks won't look out of place in the office if it coordinates with the blue in your tie.
The construction of a sock is a critical factor in determining its durability, comfort, and overall performance. Take a look at some of your old, worn-out socks. For most of us, the heels and toes are the first places to wear out, so a bit of reinforcement in those areas can help extend their lifespan.
Extra padding isn't just for running and hiking socks. It can be just as crucial on dress socks–maybe even more so, given the lack of cushion on dress shoes (especially compared to more athletic footwear). If you'll be on your feet for an extended period, especially in shoes made for form rather than function, getting extra help from your socks can make a big difference.
The length of a sock can significantly impact your overall look and comfort. Socks that cover the calves are the traditional and, thus, more formal option. These are what comes to mind when most of us think of dress socks, and for good reason: they're easier to pull off in casual settings and a requirement in more formal workplaces. As a bonus, they'll help keep you warmer in cooler weather.
No-show socks have gained popularity in recent years, especially in more fashion-forward tailoring. These socks are barely visible, if at all, making them ideal for staying cool while adding a sleek, minimalist look and a touch of Mediterranean flair to your outfit. They'll also help keep your feet more comfortable and your shoes fresher than going sockless.
Products | Image | Click to purchase | Key features | Details | |||||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Size Ranges | Primary Material | Colors/Patterns | Reinforcement | Cushioned | Length | Pairs of Socks | |||||
1 | Goldtoe Men's Harrington Crew Socks | ![]() | An Iconic Dress Sock With Signature Reinforced Toes | Large to X-Large | Cotton | 10+ Formal Patterns | Toes and Heels | Calf | 6 Pairs | ||
2 | Easton Marlowe Men's Dress Socks | ![]() | Six Pairs of Socks in Coordinated Patterns and Colors | 6 to 15 | Cotton | 5+ Formal and Bold Patterns | None | Calf | 6 Pairs | ||
3 | Polo Ralph Lauren Men's Athletic Performance Cotton Crew Socks | ![]() | Athletic Socks That Can Double as Dress Socks | 6 to 17 | Cotton | 10+ Formal and Bold Patterns | Toes and Heels | Calf | 6 Pairs | ||
4 | Hsell Men's Fun Patterned Dress Socks | ![]() | Four Pairs of Dress Socks With Humorous Patterns | One Size | Cotton | 10+ Bold Patterns | None | Calf | 4 Pairs | ||
5 | Amazon Essentials Men's Solid Dress Socks | ![]() | Five Pairs of Solid Colored Socks | 8-15 | Cotton | Black | None | Calf | 5 Pairs | ||
6 | Sock Amazing Unisex Bamboo Rayon Socks | ![]() | Rayon Socks With Reinforced Heels and Toes | 9-13 | Synthetics、Bamboo | 5+ Formal Patterns | Toes and Heels | Calf | 8 Pairs | ||
7 | 7DayOtter Modal Odor Resistant Dress Socks | ![]() | Bold Colors and Patterns Without Stepping Into Novelty Territory | 6 to 13 | Cotton | 10+ Formal and Bold Patterns | Toes and Heels | Calf | 6 Pairs | ||
8 | Darn Tough Ultra Light No Show Sock | ![]() | A No-Show Sock With a Lifetime Guarantee | Small to X-Large | Wool | 2 Bold Patterns | Toes and Heels | No Show | 1 Pair | ||
9 | Duna Lightweight Cotton Crew Socks | ![]() | Black Socks in Three Sizes | 7 to 15 | Cotton | Black | None | Calf | 4 Pairs | ||
10 | Albert Kreuz Men’s Luxury Business Socks | ![]() | Made of 98% Silk | 6.5 to 15 | Silk | Black | Toes and Heels | Calf | 1 Pairs |
Size Ranges | Large to X-Large |
---|---|
Primary Material | Cotton |
Goldtoe is famous for their reinforced toes and affordability, making them a popular choice found in many men’s sock drawers. This particular six-pack of primarily cotton socks is available in various sizes and colors, from formal to festive. While most are solid colors, some are available with subtle stripes. Many customers are long-time fans and praise these socks for their consistency and comfort, even when worn for long days. Some reviewers mention the padding making them thicker than other dress socks
Reinforcement | Toes and Heels |
---|---|
Cushioned | |
Pairs of Socks | 6 Pairs |
Size Ranges | 6 to 15 |
---|---|
Primary Material | Cotton |
Reinforcement | None |
---|---|
Cushioned | |
Pairs of Socks | 6 Pairs |
Size Ranges | 6 to 17 |
---|---|
Primary Material | Cotton |
Reinforcement | Toes and Heels |
---|---|
Cushioned | |
Pairs of Socks | 6 Pairs |
Size Ranges | One Size |
---|---|
Primary Material | Cotton |
Reinforcement | None |
---|---|
Cushioned | |
Pairs of Socks | 4 Pairs |
Size Ranges | 8-15 |
---|---|
Primary Material | Cotton |
Reinforcement | None |
---|---|
Cushioned | |
Pairs of Socks | 5 Pairs |
Size Ranges | 9-13 |
---|---|
Primary Material | Synthetics、Bamboo |
Reinforcement | Toes and Heels |
---|---|
Cushioned | |
Pairs of Socks | 8 Pairs |
Size Ranges | 6 to 13 |
---|---|
Primary Material | Cotton |
Reinforcement | Toes and Heels |
---|---|
Cushioned | |
Pairs of Socks | 6 Pairs |
Size Ranges | Small to X-Large |
---|---|
Primary Material | Wool |
Reinforcement | Toes and Heels |
---|---|
Cushioned | |
Pairs of Socks | 1 Pair |
Size Ranges | 7 to 15 |
---|---|
Primary Material | Cotton |
Reinforcement | None |
---|---|
Cushioned | |
Pairs of Socks | 4 Pairs |
Size Ranges | 6.5 to 15 |
---|---|
Primary Material | Silk |
Reinforcement | Toes and Heels |
---|---|
Cushioned | |
Pairs of Socks | 1 Pairs |
No. 1: Goldtoe|Men's Harrington Crew Socks
No. 2: Easton Marlowe|Men's Dress Socks
No. 3: Polo Ralph Lauren|Men's Athletic Performance Cotton Crew Socks
No. 4: Hsell|Men's Fun Patterned Dress Socks
No. 5: Amazon Essentials|Men's Solid Dress Socks
View Full RankingThe descriptions of each product are referenced from content available on manufacturer, brand, and e-commerce sites.
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