What kind of socks should I be wearing now?

What kind of socks would you like to wear? Given the proliferation of styles, there is a good sock option for everyone. According to the stylist Bemi Shaw, you can never go wrong with a sports sock. “They add a bit of edge to a basic outfit and make streetwear look more authentic.”

Is it OK to wear white socks?

Yes and no. Yes, when playing sport; no, when wearing a suit – until recently that is. Now, it is the subversive nature of white socks that makes them so appealing, says the fashion stylist Tom Stubbs, who wears his with Prada penny loafers. “That’s what’s so good about them, they’re wrong!” he says. “For a tiny bit of man-hosiery, [they are] freighted with controversy … They appear synonymous with the 80s, a decade decreed fundamentally bad stylistically. This obviously adds to the attraction.” So when to wear them? “Whenever you want to break the norm … socks don’t usually have attitude – but these white fellas defo do.” SC

What material should socks be made from?

Most socks are made from a blend of materials and those that include elastane are likely to be a better, more comfortable fit. Bamboo fibre socks absorb moisture and boast antibacterial and antifungal properties. “Bamboo socks aren’t quite as green as they may appear, due to the processing of the bamboo and dyes,” says Steve Hynd, campaign manager at City to Sea. “Look out for organic cotton certified by Gots (global organic textile standard), which means your socks will be independently checked throughout the supply chain. Also, don’t throw out your old socks – and wash them in a Guppy bag to ensure you don’t leach microplastics as you wash.”