Dress socks are a critical piece to any formal man’s wardrobe. Not only do they provide additional comfort when wearing dress shoes, but they also subtly demonstrate your own unique sense of style.
When researching the best dress socks, you will find that they come in many different materials, fits, lengths, colors, and very few do as well at demonstrating strength in all of these key areas such as the socks made by the Boardroom Socks we reviewed.
In this guide, we will list the finest dress socks currently available.
Best Dress Socks for Men of 2022
- Boardroom Socks Mid-Calf Dress Socks
- Amazon Buttoned Down Pima Cotton Dress Sock
- Ministry of Supply Atlas Crew Sock
- Happy Socks Dressed Socks
- Bonobos Soft Everyday Socks
- Gold Toe Men’s Over-The-Calf Dress Socks
- EMEM Apparel Men’s Diabetic Dress Socks
- Polo Ralph Lauren Big & Tall Dress Socks
- Bombas Merino Wool Dress Socks
- Dr. Scholl’s Men’s Non-Binding Crew Sock
- Mack Weldon Cashmere Dress Sock
4 Tips for Buying Dress Socks
While you may already have a good idea of what you want in a dress sock, we wanted to share with you a few considerations to keep in mind when making your selection:
1. Material
Dress socks are often made from one of the following materials, here’s what they are:
- Cotton: Breathable and lightweight, this material is perfect for summer months. While not as stretchy as other materials, cotton may lose its shape after several wears. Cotton comes in many different grades including pima and supima cotton.
- Merino Wool: This animal-derived material is naturally moisture-wicking. Additionally, merino wool resists odor and feels comfortable against your skin.
- Spandex: This gives the dress sock a nice bit of stretch. Look for Spandex if you are tired of your dress socks always falling down after a few uses.
- Artificial Fibers: Will be intensely durable and naturally moisture-wicking. This is a good choice if you find that your dress socks always get holes in them.
2. Performance Features
Some modern dress socks contain performance features that can make a difference in comfort. Here are a few that we came across in our research:
- Moisture-Wicking: This is an important feature, especially if you have profusely sweaty feet that may even lead to blisters. Moisture-wicking fabric pulls the sweat away from your skin ensuring your feet stay dry.
- Sock Padding: A reinforced heel, footbed, and toe will greatly enhance the durability of the sock, making for a better investment.
- Silver: Some companies embed silver into the fabric as it is effective at neutralizing odor.
3. Length
Dress socks come in two primary lengths: mid-calf and over-the-calf. Here’s how each of them differs:
- Mid-Calf: These are going to be slightly higher than traditional crew socks. Mid-calf is a touch more comfortable when worn for extended periods. This dress sock is also a bit more casual.
- Over-the-Calf: More formal and traditional of the two. However, the biggest advantage that men like about this cut is that they rarely slip down. Additionally, no skin will ever be exposed if you sit with your legs crossed and the pant leg hikes up.
4. Color
When buying dress socks, it’s a smart move to purchase them to compliment what you intend to wear. Here are a few quick style tips:
- Bright Colors: Who said dress socks couldn’t be fun? A bold or bright dress sock is a fun way to express your style for a casual or informal office setting.
- Patterns: From a nice USA flag to polka dots, patterns can set a tone. You should exercise your judgment here with the occasion that you plan on wearing the socks.
- Shoe Color: Some men like to play it safe and match sock color to shoe color. Nothing is wrong with this – it’s a classy move and safe for the boardroom.
- Tie Color: Coordinating your tie and socks shows that you put thought into your outfit. For a bonus, compliment the color with a classy pocket square.
- Pants Color: This may be tricky if your socks are several shades away from the color of your pants. Careful selection is required here.
Best Dress Socks Reviewed
1. Boardroom Socks Mid-Calf Dress Socks
Designed and made here in the USA (North Carolina), Boardroom Socks are the quintessential dress sock that should be in every man’s wardrobe. The authentic USA roots demonstrate the high level of craftsmanship and that we can still make quality textiles stateside.
What makes these dress socks so special is the material coupled with their construction. By relying on a high-quality merino wool fabric, these dress socks will wick moisture to keep your feet nice and dry throughout the day.
With fabric reinforcement at the heel and toe area, these socks should be plenty durable to last several wears before showing any signs of use.
While above is just the black variant, Boardroom Socks makes the mid-calf merino dress sock in a variety of colors.
View the Full Review: Boardroom Socks Review
The Bottom Line
If you want a well-made and super comfortable sock, then put Boardroom Socks at the top of your list.
2. Amazon Buttoned Down Pima Cotton Dress Sock
Amazon is quickly turning heads in the men’s fashion industry by making quality garments at an affordable price. But what truly makes their Buttoned Down dress socks so special that they deserve your consideration is their composition.
Relying on a high-quality Pima cotton (65%), this long-staple cotton will be super soft and breathable – making them comfortable to wear particularly in the warmer months of the year. While this sock relies on an additional blend of nylon, polyester, and elastane for both structure and durability, the majority cotton blend is what you will particularly feel once you slide them on.
Available in a few different colors and patterns, these will match well with the dress clothes in your wardrobe.
Additionally, these cotton socks will fit shoe sizes 8 to 16.
The Bottom Line
Affordable and comfortable, these Pima cotton dress socks by Amazon are a hit. The nice addition of spandex ensures that they stay up all day long.
3. Ministry of Supply Atlas Crew Sock
If Nike and Brooks Brothers had a child, then the Ministry of Supply Atlas Crew Sock would be the offspring. By merging key qualities found in both athletic performance and formal dress socks, the Atlas Crew hits a home run when it comes to odor control.
These sweet-looking dress socks rely on some intense fabric engineering to keep your feet both odor and sweat-free. In order to achieve this, Ministry of Supply relies on both targeted ventilation through the fabric along coffee-infused fabric for odor control. Together, you have a dress sock that keeps your feet feeling fresh long after your 9 to 5 day is over.
If that weren’t enough, the Atlas Crew Socks rely on recycled materials to lower the impact on the environment.
Who said you can’t have your cake and eat it, too?
The Bottom Line
Ministry of Supply is dedicated to engineering well-made men’s garments, and the Atlas Crew Sock is no exception. Specifically designed to combat sweat and odor – these are a home run.
4. Happy Socks Dressed Socks
Be bold and express yourself. Those are the first words you will think of when considering any of the dress socks from Happy Socks. Bright and colorful, these dress socks not only make for a great gift but more importantly, an outlet to express your unique personality.
Perfect to wear in an informal office, or even with a nice pair of chinos or raw denim jeans – they are available in a multitude of colors and patterns.
Crafted from a blend of cotton (72%), polyamide (27%), and elastane (1%), you can expect these socks to feel mighty comfortable once you slide them on.
If you are looking for patterned dress socks – then consider these by Happy Socks.
The Bottom Line
If you want to liven up the office and have a bit of fun in your work life, then these are nice socks to consider. Although Happy Socks are colorful and bright, they are equally comfortable – enough to bring a smile to your face.
5. Bonobos Soft Everyday Socks
A trusted clothing brand for the working man, Bonobos knows how to make a good piece of clothing that men absolutely love – and that couldn’t be more evident than with their Soft Everyday Socks.
Constructed from a soft Pima cotton (72%), polyester (25%), and spandex (3%) fabric blend, these socks will keep your feet warm while offering plenty of breathability to prevent moisture buildup thanks to the ventilated design.
With the addition of spandex to the fabric blend, you can expect these socks to stay up when worn for extended periods – no adjustments necessary.
Unlike cheesy novelty socks, these dress socks by Bonobos have some nice and subtle patterns that are workplace appropriate while casually making a style statement.
Additionally, these dress socks have a cushioned footbed that allows for great comfort, a particularly important feature should you be on your feet for an extended period.
Available in a myriad of patterns and two sizes (S-M / 6-9, M-L / 9.5-13), most guys should have no problem finding the perfect sock.
The Bottom Line
The reliance on quality Pima cotton makes these a comfortable pick for everyday wear. You may want to pick up a few as styles may rotate frequently.
6. Gold Toe Men’s Over-The-Calf Dress Socks
If you are looking for over-the-calf socks that will stay put throughout the day, then the Gold Toe Men dress socks should be considered. Crafted from 100% nylon, these super durable socks will naturally wick moisture from your feet.
While pictured above is from their Metropolitan line, Gold Toe makes this over-the-calf sock in a few different lines including Stanton, Harrington, Canterbury, and more. All these lines differ in moisture control, fabric composition, and cushioning – which is good should you not find the 100% nylon blend ideal.
With a firm over-the-calf fit, you never have to worry about these socks falling down or needing to be readjusted throughout the day. Additionally, if you like to cross your legs while sitting, you never have to worry about your skin showing.
Available in three different colors including black, brown, and navy – these socks should pair with your dress pants or preferred dress shoe. No pattern options are available.
The Bottom Line
If you are tired of always having to readjust your socks, then consider these Gold Toe Men’s Over-The-Calf dress socks – they will stay up so you can concentrate on the work at hand.
7. EMEM Apparel Men’s Diabetic Dress Socks
Diabetic socks offer a unique construction that doesn’t restrict blood flow when worn for an extended period. It’s through this need that the EMEM diabetic dress socks are special in their own right. With a non-binding top that rises to the mid-calf, these will feel looser and more comfortable.
Relying on a cotton blend, these socks will also be plenty breathable. There is a touch of polyester and spandex that will help retain the shape and increase durability.
Available in several different colors (no patterns), they should pair well with all your dress clothes.
The Bottom Line
Your dress socks don’t need to be painful or restrict blood flow. These socks feature a unique top that rests comfortably on your mid-calf.
8. Polo Ralph Lauren Big & Tall Dress Socks
If you are over 6′ and find that most dress socks just simply don’t fit well on your naturally larger frame, then you should consider the specially made big and tall dress socks by Polo Ralph Lauren.
Designed for shoe sizes 13 to 16, these dress socks are designed for large feet and won’t be stretched thin when you pull them up.
These mid-calf socks are primarily made from cotton and feature a ribbed top. There is a touch of spandex (3%) added to the fabric blend to ensure that they don’t fall down at all. Additionally, these socks feature antimicrobial properties so your feet won’t smell.
The Bottom Line
Finding dress socks for larger-built men can be notoriously difficult. While there are some niche retailers out there – the Polo Ralph Lauren Big & Tall Dress Socks give you the best bang for your buck.
9. Bombas Merino Wool Dress Socks
Men are quickly discovering the quality that Bombas delivers when it comes to all sorts of socks. Whether it’s a pair of no-show, crew, or dress socks – their craftsmanship is top-notch. Their merino wool dress sock is no exception here.
Able to naturally wick moisture, reduce odor, and keep your feet warm but not too overly hot through its temperature regulation properties, merino wool is a great primary fabric when it comes to dress socks.
What makes these socks by Bombas so special compared to other merino wool socks is the small details. These dress socks feature their proprietary sure-fit cuff, seamless toe, and honeycomb art support. All this combined ensures that you have a dress sock that stays put throughout the day.
Lastly, and perhaps most importantly, for every sock you buy through Bombas they will donate one to a homeless shelter.
The Bottom Line
A premium blend of materials coupled with quality craftsmanship makes these over-the-calf socks a true winner. Sold individually, you may want to pick up a few pairs.
10. Dr. Scholl’s Men’s Non-Binding Crew Sock
If you are on your feet all day, then you know that thin dress socks are not ideal as they provide next to nothing when it comes to cushioning and seam reinforcement that can quickly develop holes or signs of wear.
Therefore, if you want extra cushioning and support, then you should consider the orthopedic-focused Dr. Scholl’s Men’s Non-Binding Crew Sock. With reinforced cushioning along the footbed paired with a smooth toe seam, these won’t feel like your typical dress socks.
Rising to the mid-calf, these socks won’t get in the way when working. Lastly, they use Silvadur antimicrobial technology that does a good job at resisting odor.
The Bottom Line
Adding athletic-like cushioning while still adhering to the formal dress code – these are great daily use sock.
11. Mack Weldon Cashmere Dress Sock
Cashmere is silky smooth, warm, and naturally moisture-wicking. Like a quality men’s sweater, cashmere socks are a welcomed addition to any man’s wardrobe. Mack Weldon hits all the right notes when it comes to fine craftsmanship. For the body of the sock, they rely on a durable double-fiber construction that makes this sock an ideal candidate for daily wear.
Furthermore, they employ a seamless toe and heel that won’t cause discomfort or blisters when worn for prolonged periods.
While this is marketed as a cashmere dress sock, Mack Weldon does rely on a touch of nylon (only 6%) likely to help the stock stay put and retain its body.
While the price of these socks is higher than most (nearly $70 for a single pair), you quickly forget all of that once you slide them on.
The Bottom Line
If you prioritize comfort and warmth above all else, then consider these cashmere dress socks. They look great and will keep your feet nice and toasty.