From hats, shades and tie, to shirts, belts and shoes, there is a rule book for everything you wear. Even the undergarments have some mannerism associated with them. Like, you don’t wear a black ‘chuddi’ under a white linen trousers, obviously you can when it becomes fashionableto subtly flash their innerwear, but as of now it would be a gaffe. However, there is nothing authoritative on socks because those who dress-up the world (labels, designers and fashion writers) never care to talk about it, so we thought, we will do the needful and come up with a reckoner on socks etiquettes. After reading this story, you will have to buy several pairs of black, grey and blue socks. 

• White socks are only for play sports: Please don’t club white socks with black trousers because white socks are only for the gym or the playground, and it would be criminal to not adhere to this thumbrule. See, fashion is about minute details, hence if you are all suited up in the most expensive suit for you elder brother’s wedding, but your socks is white, you have got it all wrong man. Also, tell your friends about it because it’s the most common faux pas.
• Socks should be in good condition: Rats don’t come and stay in your feet, so there is no point in wearing a pair in which there are more holes than the fabric, because if at the airport, the security guys ask you to remove your shoes and put them in the scanner, Mr.Gentleman, you’ll be really embarrassed. And we certainly don’t need to caution you about the socks that smell like fish market, do we? Wash them regularly, you owe this much to the friends whose house you visit everyday.
• Fabrics matters: For posh engagements like a high profile party, farewell or a prom, you can opt for thin and delicate socks, however, for everyday wear, buy cotton socks that are comfy, look good, provide adequate cushioning and moisture absorbing qualities.

• Match the colour of your socks with pants, not the shoes: If it’s a formal meet (job/college interview), don’t wear a neon coloured socks with your suit. For all formal occasions, match the colour of your socks with that of your trousers because they enhance the look. This is why there should be more of black, grey and dark blue coloured socks than any other colour. “For casual and intimate occasions, the odd splash of colour or dose of sartorial quirkiness can be introduced with your socks. As far as essentials go, it would be best to invest in the basics and ensure that you are well-stocked when it comes to the neutrals,” suggests Payal Bathija, director, Heel and Buckle India. Ever in doubt, go with a dark shade. 
• The fit has to be right: The socks should be able to hold on to the foot properly, and for this, you have to find a pair that fit well, especially around the ankle. It would be advisable to buy a pair that moulds your ankle appropriately with a proper elasticated seam. This will prevent them from bunching up around your ankles and looking untidy. 
• Socks with patterns are brilliant, if kept simple: If you have a thing for pattern socks, make sure you keep it simple. Any loud pattern should in flashy colour combination should either be locked in the wardrobe and forgotten, or worn at casual event (and at places where no one knows you).
• Buy a pair that covers: Ankle length socks are certainly comfortable and passable too, but only while you are wearing shorts. In formal settings, trust in a pair that’s long enough to covers the calves, so that when you move or sit, no skin is exposed between your socks and trousers.

• Socks are not for floaters: One tight slap for anybody who hasn’t left that annoying habit of wearing socks with floaters or sandals. It’s best left for days when an individual’s presentability is inconsequential. 
• Don’t roll down your socks: Another habit that you need to get rid of. If you wish to wear short length socks, buy the ankle length socks.