Own the New Year in Style:
The Ultimate Sock Showdown
©The Independent
A generational sock war: ankle socks vs. crew socks
The sock war has been heating up unexpectedly. It all started last year when podcaster Phoebe Parsons claimed in a TikTok that “ankle socks are a sign of age.” She suggests that you can distinguish Gen Z from Millennials by the length of their socks: Gen Z favors taller socks pulled up their calves(crew or long socks), while Millennials stick to ankle socks or shorter styles.
The New York Times conducted a study on sock preferences among Gen Z in the U.S. and discovered that they’ve embraced their own long sock trend. “I only wear crew socks,” some Gen Zers said, while others added, “I hardly ever see anyone wearing short socks except my dad.” Adidas has also reported a surge in traffic to its crew socks webpage since 2023, and sportswear brand Under Armour revealed that sales of mid-length socks have grown from about one-third to half of all global sock sales over the past five years.
Crew sock fashion hits the streets ©wardrobeoxygen
Take a moment to pause and look down at your socks. Which type do the socks you’re wearing belong to?
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If you’re wearing ankle socks or even sneaker-length, fake socks that hide inside your shoes, you’re either a pre-millennial or way behind the times. There was a time when medium or long socks were considered “old man” style, but now, longer socks are a major fashion trend. Leading the way are slouchy socks, which are making a major comeback.
Slouchy socks are boosting beauty supply sales
Slouchy socks are ankle-length socks made from stretchy material that loosely drapes around the ankle, as the name “slouchy” suggests. Popular in the 1980s and ’90s, this nostalgic trend has made a major comeback thanks to the colorful charm of slouchy socks.
©marieclaire.com
– Comfortable
Made from a blend of soft, breathable cotton and cozy yarns, slouchy socks prioritize comfort (though it’s best to avoid those with a high polyester content). Their loose fit eliminates tightness around the ankle, offering free movement and all-day wearability.
– Effortlessly stylish
Slouchy socks are incredibly versatile when it comes to styling. Pair them with jeans and sneakers for a casual look or with a dress or skirt for a bohemian touch. Their relaxed fit and draped silhouette add a chic, effortless vibe to any outfit.
– A variety of designs
One of the best features of slouchy socks is their adaptability. They can be styled for any season, occasion, or personal preference. With varying lengths, they complement all types of footwear—from sneakers and boots to sandals and even high heels.
– Budget-friendly must-have
Unlike expensive designer pieces, slouchy socks are both affordable and accessible. Despite their low cost, they come in a wide range of textures, materials, and embellishments, including cozy knits, sheer fabrics, lace trims, and even metallic accents.
Tips for Choosing Quality Socks
As slouch socks continue to grow in popularity, beauty supply retailers have expanded their sock selections. From budget-friendly slouch socks to high-end options with quirky designs, most stores now cater to a wide variety of tastes, attracting many loyal customers. However, some customers have complained about socks becoming damaged after washing them. Manufacturers like Company G and Company V, known for their quality socks, recommend the following tips to retailers for selecting reliable products:
- Choose socks with a cotton content of at least 70–80%. Cotton is both breathable and durable, making it an excellent choice for all customers. African American customers, in particular, often have softer, more sensitive skin and tend to prefer socks with a higher cotton content and the natural color of cotton.
- Avoid choosing socks solely based on their design or color vibrancy. A higher polyester content often produces more vivid colors and a silkier finish, but polyester lacks heat resistance and has low moisture absorption. This can make socks uncomfortable for individuals with sweaty feet and may increase the risk of conditions such as athlete’s foot.
- Opt for socks made with high-quality yarn. Look for a firm, dense texture that feels durable, rather than loose or fluffy.
- Provide proper care instructions to customers. Ideally, socks should be hand-washed. If using a washing machine, use cold or lukewarm water with a mild detergent, as hot water can cause shrinkage. Whenever possible, skip the dryer and air-dry the socks to help them last longer.
From affordable to luxury!
The best socks for beauty supply stores, curated by company
Genesis slouch socks
– Made from a high-quality cotton blend, creating natural, elegant wrinkles.
– Crafted with 80% cotton, 17% polyester, and 3% elastic fiber for a soft, comfortable, and breathable fit.
– Machine washable
IVY Red Beauty slouch socks
– Features 1.5 times longer and fuller ankle gathers than regular socks, offering a natural, stylish look.
– Made with a spandex blend for a comfortable, enhanced fit that pairs well with a variety of styles.
VOV SOX fashion socks
– A wide variety of designs and color options, perfect for showcasing your unique personality. Crafted with details tailored to Gen Z’s tastes, these socks are made to be worn with confidence, not just put on.
– Made from 30s cotton fabric, offering a luxuriously soft and comfortable feel against the skin. Built for durability, ensuring they maintain their shape over time.
– Tightly woven with a 200-thread count for a smooth, soft touch. Whether for everyday activities, sports, or stylish outfits, VOV SOX offers options to meet all your needs.
