Five Of The Most Common Mistakes Men Make Wearing Dress Socks | Kirby Allison

[@FortressMT]

I just started buying legit over-the-calf dress socks about a half year ago. Big game changer! Great vid, sir...and awesome sport coat! I love it!

[@mohitaggarwal1996]

I bought over the calf dress socks from Pantherella last winter and while wearing it for the first time i felt that my calf was compressed and it was causing a problem, but after an hour or so it got better and on the second wear it fit real good and was very well adjusted. Many people don’t spend their money on socks and thats the worst mistake a person can make because once you wear a good quality sock you wouldn’t go back to cheap ones. They also last longer if properly taken care of. In extreme colds over the calf socks also does a better job in keeping leg warm. This is a topic which should be discussed more and Thank you so much Kirby for putting a light on this. All the best👍🏽

[@kirbyallison]

The other mistake people make is to not launder them properly or mend holes in their socks!

[@Armand-v5c]

6:37 spoken like a comic “toenail will saw through the fabric” absolutely hilarious 😆

[@ShadowForeverCG]

Amazing! So much love in such minor things that are actually matter!

[@lyontracks1]

Thank you! I appreciate the information and I will be seeking over the calf dress socks from now on. I happen to be gifted several pairs of Bomba dress socks that just happen to be over the calf style. I was certainly not used to that, but after wearing them I definitely realize the benefits and my socks stayed up all day! I also appreciate your opinions of what a well-dressed man looks like regarding socks. I cannot stand the flashy fads and trends of what I call crazy socks! I also, by the same token, cannot stand to see men wearing shoes of the same sort! I cannot stand to see a dress shoe that looks sort of like a modified sneaker. And a white sole or a blue sole… You’ve got to be kidding me. Thank you so much for your comments.

[@gregrodriguez3169]

Bravo, I love this video! A bit surprised by the idea of repairing socks. The bottom of my heel tends to wear thin before I ever develop holes at the toe area, and so for me replacing really is the best option. But yes, I’m on a mission to acquire and replace my current dress socks with OTC. Thank you for this!

[@hmrhuang]

Try Dapper Classics. My absolute favorite OTC dress sock company -- you'll love their products!

[@YataaNogar]

I might sound weird, but what are those little red fibers at the end of these socks? Are they to be taken out?

[@GenX6887]

The only times I usually follow the sock rule is when I wear a full suit or when attending a funeral. But aside from that, I love to wear different colors of dress socks. Black socks all the time tends to get boring. Colored dress socks are a fun way to branch out! You should do a video on sock color if you already haven't.

[@aaronsung6208]

I dont think sock is a very interersting piece to draw attention to. I would rather draw attention to great shoes or jacket or even well tailored dress pants.

[@salsaestonia]

@@aaronsung6208, same for me. Never got the colourful sock hype.

[@GenX6887]

@@aaronsung6208 Nothing wrong with playing it safe when it comes to socks.

[@fdw1234]

Your suggestions on pairing dress socks with trousers please ......

[@kirbyallison]

Video forthcoming!

[@Darruus]

Obviously you have your own dress socks you sell but another option that is widely available in a lot of towns is Dillard’s. They sell over the calf dress socks in your basic colors, navy, brown, black, and grey.

[@ARlELATOM]

I’m not going to lie... I’m guilty of a lot of these mistakes 😅 thanks for setting us straight! 👌

[@kirbyallison]

Good job being honest! We learn from mistakes, so don't worry. Its about not repeating those mistakes.

[@Clickerbarmicker]

@@kirbyallison so important to be honest, you can even see that in the way you talk on your videos

[@crisyorke1328]

I’m really digging the burgundy silk socks!

[@isaachatton4463]

Kirby doing his part and saving the world... one sock at a time!

[@kirbyallison]

😂😁

[@johnechelbarger7832]

I love that jacket, Kirby. That is a great pattern, and the fit is perfect. I need to get a nice casual jacket like that.

[@kirbyallison]

Thanks!

[@strappernick9891]

Classy jacket for sure mate!

[@BighatBurt]

love the video, I had a question on shirt stays in a formal setting. I have to use them for work when I'm in uniform but how would that transfer over to a formal setting so to say?

[@nonbespokeelegance2481]

First to comment! Fabulous video Kirby, me and my friend Mr Silva was talking about socks on Facebook today and here you are, bringing us the most detailed sock game video!

[@kirbyallison]

Great minds think alike!

[@nonbespokeelegance2481]

@@kirbyallison You speak too highly of me Sir! We are all here to learn from you Kirby!

[@juri3745]

This might sound like a dumb question but when should you wash drees socks? My feet rarely sweat and don't really spend 5 or 8 hours in them. I feel like I am damaging them by constantly washing them after each use.

[@shawn3476]

what material?

[@juri3745]

Cotton, wool, nylon and silk

[@shawn3476]

@@juri3745 are you on IG? Was just talkin bout this to a follower

[@gcmacyman]

I'd say wash them as often as you wash your underwear. If you change your underwear daily and of course you will launder them, then wear a fresh pair of socks each day that are laundered. Most men have sweaty feet, you're rare that your feet don't sweat much but still. Clean socks and clean underwear each day are essential for men.

[@strappernick9891]

My problem with mid-calf socks is they leave stretch marks and are too tight. My favorite sock is actually a ragg type, very slouchy, at least from a comfort perspective. I know it is not as dressy as the over-the-calf socks you stock. I hope to add one of the longer socks you displayed here to my wardrobe. Thanks for the tips.

[@kirbyallison]

Interesting... where do you find your ragg type socks?

[@SirMopy]

No-show socks then with loafers in the summer or something else? Thank you for this video!!

[@kirbyallison]

My opinion is that if you are going to not wear socks... don't wear socks. I often wear loafers without socks during the summertime. And I find "no show" socks are uncomfortable and still show.

[@SirMopy]

Kirby Allison thanks for the response, Kirby! I gonna try wearing no socks with my loafers now. Never did it.. thought it wasn’t good for the inner sole 🤔

[@NeilNatic]

I found that bombas and other higher end socks are fine as no show socks. The feeling and thought of no socks is just a no-go for me.

[@danoriron4975]

Mistake 1B: If you’re wearing trousers that expose your calves when you sit down, your hem line is WAY too high in the first place. The flood pants trend must end along with those bright quirky socks

[@WallChart]

21stCentury even worse are the standing flood pants!

[@kirbyallison]

Maybe I should have said ankles or bottom leg. But, yes.

[@supersonique001]

Unless of course if you're a clam digger and actually 'on' the job !

[@ONITru7h]

Usually, yes. I've definitely seen guys who have their calves exposed while sitting cross legged but their hem is a medium break. Some people just have weird body shapes and that affects this as well.

[@Bingbangohmigollygod]

Kirby: Men make 5 mistakes with dress socks Me [muffled voice]: Is this right? Kirby [face palms]; Men make 6 mistakes...

[@thearchive9376]

I love you and your channel, Kirby Allison !

[@BudsCartoon]

Maybe it's because I played baseball almost my whole life, but I love socks that go to the underknee. Stance make some awesome high non-dress socks. They have heels and insteps and such.

[@wqsnsr8]

Very good points

[@anthonycastro6802]

Very nice suit you’ve got on. I hope to one day have one like it in my collection.

[@laner.845]

I'm so short that most men's mid-calf dress socks are thigh-highs on me. The mid-calf reach my knee and I"m stupidly happy to have comfortable socks that fit. Granted, the feet are still often too long, but considering my shoes are always too big to get them to fit, I have plenty of toe to hide the first 2" or so of sock up in, hahaha.

[@jayhightower5186]

Whew, I seem to be doing okay with dress socks. I wear Pantherella Merino wool over-the-calf socks in black or khaki (mostly black). They are very comfortable and well-made. I think a color exception could be made for Gammarelli socks, after all, if they're good enough for the Pope to wear on special occasions, then I can probably wear a 'cardinal red' pair of socks. I guess the counterpoint may be that I'm not the Pope. Thank you for the video. I like to hear professional's opinions, especially when they validate my practices...

[@kirbyallison]

Gammarelli is a great exception. I try to coordinate these socks with the Holy holidays at Church. Purple, which is worn during Advent and Lent, and red, which is worn on Palm Sunday, Pentecost, Good Friday.

[@AhmedMagdy-yy5gf]

Great video as always, but I don't think over the calf socks is my type, I wear shirt tucker and for that the mid calf is what I believe is more suitable.

[@caseyjonesbklyn5796]

So true all around. Thanks again for the video.

[@dylanbailey1944]

Where is your video on matching socks? You mentioned it in this video but I can’t find it.

[@kirbyallison]

Publishing this week

[@ollieapril]

thank you for the informative video. I really like your glasses! :)

[@kirbyallison]

Thank you! These are from Francois Pinton!

[@kennethjohnson6141]

Great video Kirby. I must confess, I am guilty of wearing socks not made of natural fibers. In your opinion what do you think of socks made of nylon, and I also wear Pantherella socks,and Dapper Classic socks, just wanted your opinion of those brands. I just purchased the Sovereign Grade silk socks from your collection, and must say they are the finest I have ever worn Thank you 🙏🙏🙏

[@randyfuller7294]

Need to see more on cowboy boots. Please you live in Texas how to include boots in dress wear! I wear them with sport coats and suits maybe a episode on formal cowboy boots

[@kirbyallison]

I need to get my pair made by Lee Miller!

[@gabrieleamornim960]

I have seen men in cowboy boots in white sport Socks or in sheers socks, or tick or very fine

[@Konsaliki]

Looking at a picture of a G8 meeting, you basically see nothing but bad style. Politics nowadays is not a good point of reference when it comes to dressing well.

[@kirbyallison]

But no purple socks... (well, except Justin from Canada, which everyone has since pointed out 😂)

[@mcmickey3344]

If your shirt elbows blow out, is that fixable?

[@TeodorSt]

Hi Kirby, in my experience, even with 100% cotton over-the-calf socks, my wool suit trousers were riding up as I was walking, as they were getting hung up on the socks. Do you think this is due to the poor quality of the socks or just something normal that one has to accept with over-the-calf socks? I am considering purchasing some of the socks you presented but I am afraid the issue might occur again.

[@kirbyallison]

I really don’t ever have this problem... do you put your socks in the dryer?

[@TeodorSt]

@@kirbyallison Thanks for your reply! I can probably conclude that it must have been poor sock quality that led to this effect. Another question - what would be the best all-around mix of materials for everyday business use for over-the-calf socks? All cotton or maybe a wool-cotton mix?

[@keithmesmer3254]

What kind of glasses are you wearing?

[@kirbyallison]

francois pinton from Paris. Famous eyeglass maker... check them out!

[@Jim58223]

3:08 Kirby you should tell Justin Trudeau that. He actually makes it a topic of conversation.

[@Clickerbarmicker]

Only thing he should be telling him is to vet out of office

[@andrewwolkowich]

Does he actually count as a real head of state? The former Australian prime minister actually said to him Justin we're not here to talk about your socks. If he's not talking about his socks he's showing off his hair. And giving one of his famous apologies.

[@Clickerbarmicker]

@@andrewwolkowich or giving me a handy Mandy under the table 🤜🏼 💦

[@supersonique001]

You could certainly add that other entitled goof, Ben Mulroney host of e-talk and local news, who wears no socks, no tie and sometimes athletic white Nikes with suits on the air !!!! Heaven help us !

[@Clickerbarmicker]

@@supersonique001 calm down

[@simontuffen8243]

Is it really possible to have a good, long-lasting elastic property to the socks if they're 100% cotton, wool or silk? How is that achieved?

[@Omniscient_Maverick]

Interesting

[@kirbyallison]

Well, when I say “100% Natural” I’m referring to the yarn used to knit the sock. All of our socks have some elastic at the top to help them grip.

[@lebonnet1602]

Thank you for the video (beautiful costume)!

[@OneTonneNoodles]

To clarify for those who would misunderstand, "costume" is French for "suit".

[@lebonnet1602]

One Tonne Noodles thank you to explain my mistake

[@OneTonneNoodles]

@@lebonnet1602 It's not a mistake at all, friend. I was just making it easier to understand for those who might not know what you mean. Cheers.

[@CasanovaQuicky]

One Tonne Noodles love the collegiality of this comment section.

[@FrederickIngraham-yq4sz]

Great info..thanks

[@bheinatz1]

Kirby, I have you a thumbs up for the jacket. Mama Mia, that's a nice one!

[@terrycullen3302]

How short are your trousers that you're revealing your calf? I really don't get your insistence on over the calf socks.

[@Clickerbarmicker]

Amazing you were able to narrow it to 5! I see 20 a day! I LOL

[@edwardscissorhands4007]

Great Content!

[@supersonique001]

Well Kirby you really 'socked' it to us today! But, of course, you are quite right on all points. It's odd that the Brits have a bizarre affinity to this colorful (too) sock virus, I've frequently witnessed this during my travels. We also know that Cary Grant was once reproached for this very sin by his father and forthwith mended his ways! It is also increasingly difficult to find otc socks at men's stores, the salesmen often thinking you are looking for medical compression socks!!!LOL. I personally feel awful if wearing mid-calf socks given my Adonis like figure LOL and the inevitable sock creeping down during a client meeting....I digress!

[@LoudCitizen]

Over-the-calf: Agreed. Understated: Maybe. Quality/Elastic: Agreed. Natural/In-Season: Yes. Toenails: Surprised, but yes.

[@davidedmonds6427]

Beautiful Jacket

[@robo2606]

My problem with over the calf socks is that the trousers of my suit don't slip down when I stand up after sitting down. How can I solve this problem?

[@aaronsung6208]

I had this problem with my slim fit chino. But i dont think you should go with suit pants that is too slim. 1~2inch wider than slim fit will look modern and elegant.

[@kirbyallison]

I think this has a lot to do with the fibers. 100% natural fibers do not develop static electricity like synthetics. For the most part, this isn’t a problem I’ve had to deal with.

[@robo2606]

@@kirbyallison My socks and my suits are 100% wool.

[@robo2606]

@@aaronsung6208 The trousers have a 'regular' 20 cm/21 cm width so they are not slim fit.

[@aaronsung6208]

@@robo2606 then i dont know why. (Unless you have really big leg, so the leg opening is too small for you though it is regular fit for people).

[@IveJustSeenAFace23]

I agree on the quality and tradition of OTC socks, and I actually bought my first pair this year. However, I do see a place for mid calf socks, particularly in today’s business casual environment, where the emphasis is moving (or has moved) to casual. Slacks, chinos and dark denim are the norm these days, certain industries withstanding. I think men in colder areas could learn to benefit from adding wool/cashmere OTC socks to their arsenal during the winter months.

[@gcmacyman]

Wearing funky pattern dress socks is not so bad. I wear them and get major compliments on my socks from many other men and women who absolutely love them. Now if you're talking an elegant affair of course maybe I wouldn't wear my patterns, but I've never had someone tell me "those socks look horrible and why would you wear them?" I do agree however that especially for men who have sweaty feet that good socks with material that allows their feet to breathe better is essential as well as men keeping their feet in good shape regarding trimming their toenails, etc so that the socks don't get holes in them.

[@Selbach555]

You must be 12 years old then.

[@rarkyrie]

Hi Kirby, off topic a bit: I really love your frames, tell us about them.

[@kirbyallison]

Thank you! These are francois pinton

[@jaasparada7889]

Heard that they are sustainable or eco friendly surprised me, in a good way

[@JohnLee-vl8qk]

Still waiting on the Sovereign Grade Dark Navy Ancient Madder Tie...

[@kirbyallison]

We're expecting a shipment of ties this next week. Hopefully they have the Dark Ancient Madder Tie! One of my favorites!

[@ninjadudeofficial]

I do get that obviously you spend time in certain situations sat down, but I don't tend to be that bothered with brighter socks as long as the trousers cover them 99% of the time

[@chiane1968]

Try living somewhere like Miami and wearing an over the calf dress sock. That's comfortable. Why not just put on a snow suit as your suit?

[@kirbyallison]

I get away with them in a Texas summer...

[@Richard-wb6hk]

Disagree with natural fibers...my boyfriend prefers nylon OTC socks..they stay up and he says they are smoother when he wears his leather dress shoes. Never has a had odor when he wears them with real leather shoes. When I buy him socks, he asks that I buy gold toe nylon or other brands from Ebay. Thank you!

[@kirbyallison]

Not too sure about this... maybe give him a pair of our socks for Christmas and see what he thinks?

[@Richard-wb6hk]

@@kirbyallison He likes the thin feeling and look of nylon socks...they slip in and out of his shoes nicely..he likes that. They have a cleaner look as well, with his trousers. He is pretty set in his ways. Ive been buying his socks for years. Im just being honest with you.

[@rovercoupe7104]

I wear Pantherella. M.

[@Huffman_Tree]

8:15 Did you just assume my planet?

[@Bellroysg]

I disagree with the choice of colours. parisian gentleman has a video on socks worth checking out

[@aleksanderulanicki4897]

Except you do see heads of state in bright dress socks....

[@gabrieleamornim960]

My husband is a judge and always wears silk bright socks

[@SaltySlug]

How long are your toe nails.. You're getting holes in your socks often enough to need to keep the repair tool in the drawer..

[@gabrieleamornim960]

Hahahha that’s right

[@AlexanderKominek]

3:14 Canadian PM Justin Trudeau is known for his loud, fun socks, even at G7 meetings, and I think he pulls it off quite well.

[@gregoryoehl8347]

I thought the same thing, but then again. I am not trying to imitate Mr. Ducky socks.

[@rw2382]

Let me say how many things are wrong with this video. If you're not 5'7" 150 lbs., the odds of finding good over the calf dress socks are next to nil. I have a size 13 that can run wide. Kirby Allison doesn't go beyond 12 and in some socks, only to 11½. And what about people that suffer from diabetes or have some sensitivity to socks that squeeze the hell out of you? Then there is the issue of colorful socks. While I agree that there are some that are outrageous, I don't give a damn about following a trend set in old Europe. I also note that Kirby Allison still sells colorful socks. Also, who the heck wears pants that are so ill-fitting that their calf is showing. I think that's a bigger problem than drooping socks, though not by much. I have researched socks companies to see if they catered to people who don't have one size fits all feet and calves, and even the bespoke brands were rarely able to fill that need. And those that did only had mid calf black socks. Many of us aren't trying to make fashion mistakes. We just have no viable alternatives to avoid those mistakes.

[@countalma9800]

It's yet another myth that mid-calf socks "always slide down and reveal the ankle when one sits down and crosses his legs." I've always worn mid-calf socks and I never experience the above-mentioned problem, and believe me, I do care about my appearance, so if I'd ever noticed that my inexpensive, standard, mid-calf socks keep sliding down, revealing my ankles, I would've switched to over-the-calf socks a long time ago. Over-the-calf socks are, certainly, more luxurious and special, and probably something you might want to wear with evening formalwear, but "menswear gurus" should stop spreading the myth of mid-calf socks being "cheap and having no place in a discerning gentleman's closet". That is just plain snobbish. Besides, mid-calf socks have one significant advantage -- they are much more comfortable and don't make the wearer overheat.

[@kirbyallison]

I’ve worn a lot of mid calf socks, and they always slide down... maybe I was wearing them wrong.... 🤔 But I certainly find OTC socks better. With mid-calf you can get away with cheaper socks, but with OTC you really need something that is knit finely or it’ll be uncomfortable.

[@Ma1nguy]

Inappropriate white socks with dark suits

[@levelheadsteve]

These guidelines are fine if you want to look like some stuffy head of state from Albania. If you want to look fashionable, lighten up a bit.

[@kirbyallison]

For sure these are the tried and true rules... learn the rules first, then break then.

[@ravkhinda]

Kirby - you must have missed Justin Trudeau’s sock game. Mid calf and “vibrant.” IMO, OTC or no sock.

[@kirbyallison]

Well, we discussed it internally, but didn’t want to risk potentially offending any of our Canadian friends. However, I totally agree with you! I might only have two or three pairs of mid calf socks left.

[@mr.adamsapple3679]

I love scented dress socks sniff sniff anyone with me ......

[@jouyuanda]

Except Trudeau

[@SubversionGarage]

I hate mid calf socks

[@VD-or9nl]

"A member of the British royal family" --> 🤦‍♂️. The paragons of what the modern man aims to become.

[@Mike-qq7vu]

Kirby, why don't you show what you're describing by using your feet and legs.

[@ChipsChallenge95]

2:55 that fruit Justin Trudeau is a notable exception to that statement

[@MrDanielWP]

Trudeau's socks. Not a fan.

[@thinkingallowed6485]

First-world problems

[@oskartheme5233]

Why did you watch the video?