THERE WAS a time when dress socks were boring, uncomfortable foot covers that you had to slip on for work. But nowadays, some of our favorite sock brands have made great strides in looks and comfort. Nowadays, some of the best dress socks for men are worth wearing all the time.

If you want a 24/7 type of dress sock, make sure to look for fabric blends that are moisture-wicking and cozy. Most of them are based in either cotton or merino wool (see: our best wool socks). They also incorporate elastic materials and artificial fabrics that will retain the shape of the socks without being constricting on your leg. But if you're feeling extra fancy, we suggest splurging on cashmere socks.

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When it comes to colors and patterns, the best dress socks fall into one of two categories, depending on occasion. For more formal occasions like black tie events, stick to solid dark colors. You should also stick solid colors when your outfit or shoes contain bold patterns. This is a way to keep things from getting too busy. For more casual outfits, you can use socks as a splash of texture. Just try to stick to dots, stripes, and other geometric patterns. Timeless patterns like paisley and florals are also a good choice.

To help you keep your feet looking sharp, we assembled a list of the best dress socks out there that work way beyond formalwear. You can wear these socks with dress shoes, or show them off with loafers.

Mack Weldon

mackweldon.com

$24.00

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These dress socks from Mack Weldon look cool in a way that goes just as well with a suit as they do with jeans and sneakers. With ten color options to choose from, you can find more than a couple to upgrade your rotation. While they look nice, the best part about these socks is their odor-fighting properties. Mack Weldon infused the pima cotton with silver fibers that are naturally antimicrobial. They're using a little basic chemistry to keep your feet smelling good all day.

Corgi

mrporter.com

$30.00

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Corgi proudly shows of their seal as an officially endorsed brand by the English Royal Family. It's been making socks since 1892, sticking mostly to the same trusted manufacturing techniques. Essentially, Corgi really does make 'em like they used to which means they will keep your feet looking styling for a very long time.

Bombas

bombas.com

$18.00

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From the ankle down, Bombas built socks out with all the features you would see in high end athletic or running socks. They have arch support, moisture management, extra padding in high pressure areas, and seams removed to avoid chaffing. From the ankle up however, they look like traditional dress socks, and come in white, black, or heather charcoal. If you need to be on the move or just on your feet for long periods of time, these are the dress socks you want on your feet.

J.Crew

$14.50

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J.Crew has an impressively large variety of foolproof dress socks on hand at any given time. The label's offerings range from timelessly classy like polkadots and stripes, to sporty and fun like dogs and beach balls. If we had to pick just one pattern though, it would be the red, white, and gray anchors on a cream background. This pattern has been in J.Crew's stock for years because it is different enough to stand out, but classic enough to match everything.

Alex Mill

alexmill.com

$75.00

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Are cashmere socks a necessity? If you said no, then you've probably never worn a pair during the colder months. They're like a soft, cozy little hug for your feet. Alex Mill makes cashmere socks with good color selections at a very reasonable price. So reasonable that you can definitely rationalize treating your feet to this luxury.

The only draw back is that cashmere socks are more delicate than other fabrics, as you would expect. So you don't want to wear them with heavy dress boots or leather shoes that will cause a lot of wear on the fabric. Stick to sneakers, slippers, or wearing them around the house.

Chaps

amazon.com

$18.00

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These 3-packs of dress socks from Amazon are an incredible value. They offer a great range of patterns and colors that are all simple and versatile, and feature an extra wide elastic band at the top to prevent any slipping down your ankle. A thin and lightweight fabric blend will keep your feet from overheating. If you need to stock up on dress socks fast and on a budget, a few packs of these will do the trick.

Paul Smith

paulsmith.com

$90.00

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You can always count on Paul Smith to have fun with colors. So if you're in the market for some bold dress socks that will stand out any time your ankle peeks through, these are the socks for you. They come in a three pack with two bright color varieties and a muted option of dark colors, cause we can't have fun all the time. Plus, they're made in Italy from a cotton blend fabric that is durable and breathable. If you're rocking loafers and/or cropped pants then these will certainly draw attention in the best way.

Sunspel

sunspel.com

$33.00

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These dress socks are made in England, not far from Sunspel's headquarters. They're made from a long staple cotton—meaning more strength and durability than standard cotton—blended with nylon for stretch. They come in four colors, all with a simple white stripes. Not only are these socks built to be comfortable and last a long time, but the simple pattern means you can wear them with everything from a suit to sweatpants and slides.

Everlane

everlane.com

$35.00

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Everlane used organic cotton for these simple solid dress socks. They may be modeled after traditional dress socks but the fun color options in this 3-pack make them great for everyday wear. The ribbed design is comfortable and will retain its shape, and they packed extra cushioning into the footbed for added support. These dress socks definitely won't stick around till laundry day before they see action.

Pantherella

neimanmarcus.com

$30.00

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Pantherella is one of the oldest and most trusted names in men's dress socks. Made in the UK, It's been worn by well-dressed men since the days of Frank Sinatra and Sammy Davis Jr. The simple navy and white chevron pattern will add a nice little detail to any formal outfit without standing out, and the wide ribbed cuff will keep your socks in place and all the seams are strategically placed to avoid irritation.

Gold Toe

amazon.com

$23.00

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Sometimes you're confronted with an occasion that requires simple black dress socks. Gold Toe is probably the brand that your dad wore to work and they're just as dependable today.

RoToTo

toddsnyder.com

$25.00

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The waffle knit used in these dress socks from RoToTo provides extra breathability and stretch compared to standard sock knits.

Vuori

vuoriclothing.com

$18.00

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Vuori may be known for their athleisure apparel but their socks are built for extreme comfort in any occasion.

FootJoy + Todd Snyder

toddsnyder.com

$14.00

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When one of top menswear brands teams up with one of the top golf brands, you know you're in for a treat. These dress socks from Todd Snyder + Footjoy look great on and off the links.

Acne Studios

acnestudios.com

$65.00

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These cheeky dress socks feature Acne's signature indifferent logo in a skull and crossbones motif. The perfect excuse to show a little ankle.

Anonymous ISM

mrporter.com

$35.00

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Hemp socks are a game changer because they're more breathable than cotton and far more durable. Anonymous ISM does hemp socks as well as anyone and these tye-dyed jawns look great too.

American Trench

americantrench.com

$20.00

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As the name suggests, American Trench started out making trench coats. However, they quickly became known for their socks. Their Kennedy collection is inspired by socks worn by the former President.

Falke

falke.com

$29.00

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If you've ever been stuck in an airport, or multiple airports in one trip, then you understand the importance of good socks during travel. Falke engineered their Airport socks to keep your feet comfy during long hauls. They also come in a wide range of colors.

Flint and Tinder

huckberry.com

$14.00

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These mid-ankle dress socks from Flint and Tinder are dependable basics that look great, just like everything else the brand makes.

MR P.

mrporter.com

$95.00

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If you really want to show your feet the good life, outfit them in these cashmere blend dress socks from Mr. Porter's in-house brand.

Amazon Essentials

amazon.com

$14.40

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The dress socks from Amazon Essentials come in several different 5-packs, each one with 5 unique patterns. This stripes and dots set is classic enough to match everything but there are much more playful options if you're up for it.

Nordstrom

nordstrom.com

$14.50

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Nordstrom's in-house sock collection is designed to keep your feet nice and cool and they come in a fun collection of bold patterns.

Corridor

bergdorfgoodman.com

$35.00

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The melange texture of these dress socks from Corridor provides an understated pop of color. They're made from a thick organic cotton with a long ribbed ankle.

Happy Socks

amazon.com

$64.00

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If you're looking to make a statement with your dress socks, then Happy Socks is a good place to start. They offer affordable 4-packs and this particular option is about as tame as they come.

John Smedley

mrporter.com

$40.00

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Dress socks used to all come in very high ankle designs that went half way up your calf. John Smedley still offers this classic design if you want a traditional look.