The ‘Socks’ v ‘No-Socks’ debate is one that seems to rage on and always without question comes up as a discussion point in the office when the topic of menswear arises. As I sit writing this article, ankles slightly refreshed from the air-conditioning that filters the office, ahead of another 31 degrees day, I recall a discussion on the lack of socks on Monday.

It so happened that on Monday I had a very important meeting with a client. It was the kind of meeting where socks were required along with a perfectly knotted Hermes tie. To be honest, I hadn’t really thought too hard about the socks. However, it seems that my regular lack of socks has attracted considerable attention and as a result, the appearance of socks framing my penny loafers resulted in at least 4 comments of various tones in the office and even my barista noticed the unusual appearance of socks. Given all of this I thought it appropriate to give my view on this interesting debate.

Sprezzatura

I think that most stylish men tend to have what I call influencers, i.e. stylish role models that one takes reference from and incorporates elements in ones look. I certainly do and one of my favourites is Prince Michael of Kent the very elegant British royal with a Russian heritage. Another element that I’m a very keen follower of, is the Italian word for effortless style and that is ‘Sprezzatura’. The term ‘Sprezzatura’ can be mostly simply be described as ‘studied carelessness’, and to my mind this is where the no-socks look has originated. Any close follower of menswear will have observed the so-often photographed Italian gentleman wearing a decadent suit, sans socks and over recent times, this look has been achieving a heightened level of interest and there are more ankles on display than ever before.

Tips for leaving the Socks in the draw.

As I regularly opt for the ‘No-Socks’ look here I introduce some key tips.

I personally think that if you are going to display your ankles then they really need to be tanned. There can surely be no more-ghastly look than pasty white ankles hanging beneath a suit or ‘Cords’. There are of course one of two ways to deal with this problem, either spend countless days suntanning which is a fabulous pastime if you are fortunate to lead the pure life of luxury or alternatively invest in a great fake tan. The second option is my preferred option, not least as it is this most health conscious and secondly because I am very fair, so tanning is a challenge.

I think that the ‘no-socks’ look paired with a suit gives that perfect ‘Sprezzatura’ impression. The tanned ankles, indicative of a life of luxury and vacation, the suit an extreme sense of style and paired with no socks achieves that look of effortless style.

I am a big supporter of loafers and the ‘no-socks’ look is outstanding when paired with loafers. This of course doesn’t mean that you can’t also look fabulous in lace up derby’s without socks.

When NOT to leave the socks behind.

What are my rules when it comes to NOT going the ‘sans socks’ route?

Well if it’s summertime or even spring, I’ll always leave the socks behind unless I have a very formal meeting or I’m wearing black-tie.

If it’s autumn/winter, then socks on, I think it’s just trying too hard if you are leaving the socks behind in the winter, even if you are tanned to the hilt. This to my mind is NOT ‘Sprezzatura’. You’re just trying too hard.

It’s going to be hot for a few months yet…today I’m rocking an Italian Solaro suit with chocolate suede derby’s – Sans socks of course.

If you can’t do it in style – don’t do it!