Way to embrace the party season ahead of schedule
how loud you decide to go. Similarly, for those who balk at the idea of anything remotely Christmassy before December 24 and yet find themselves with a diary full of festively-themed obligations, a party sock is a tentative nod to the season. Think of it as a wearable version of treating yourself to a gingerbread latte instead of going for the full works Christmas sandwich. Plus, it’s the perfect solution for those with a penchant for shoes that pinch, or who struggle to ditch the deniers for a night out.
Personally, I’m currently feeling a velvet sock. Darner Socks — a specialist of high-end socks, made in LA and available at Matchesfashion. com — has a plethora of plushy party socks, spanning ribbed styles in icebreaking shades of hot pink or cherry red to crushed velvet versions in jewel hues of sapphire or emerald. They also come in black and grey, if banana yellow is a step too far for you. And at £30 a pop, they’re a good selfgifted stocking filler which can make recycling last year’s outfit a far more appealing proposition.
Happy Socks’ appropriately titled Hysteria range also has something to suit every personality, from sparkly lurex to power prints such as these leopard print and stripe options which would look ace paired with brogues and cropped black trousers (NB: if you’re going to invest in the perfect pair of party socks, make sure they’re seen).
Alternatively, head to the high street. & Other Stories currently has a good line of glittery polka dot and sheer floral styles, all of which will leave you with change from a tenner, while ASOS’s sequin socks are a dream to team with plain black strappy sandals and a vinyl skirt.
But for the most dedicated party peacocks, there can be no better party sock than the ostrich feather trimmed finery courtesy of Italian export No.21. Practical? Of course not — these are as bad a partner to a drizzly December evening as they are a washing machine. But totally fabulous? Without a doubt. Particularly as far as shaking a tailfeather is concerned.