Fall's Best Socks

Fall's best socks are the argyle, the diamond pattern that was first seen when an anonymous Scotsman cut his tartan blanket on the bias to use as a foot covering. Argyles became popular with knicker-wearing golfers in the twentieth century and were brought to the U.S. by Brooks Brothers.

Today's argyles are a casual sock, not quite formal enough to wear with conservative suits but a perfectly appropriate bit of color year-round with odd jackets and sports clothing. My personal favorites are knit in both fine cotton and merino wool by Milan's Marcoliani. A man should choose the mid calf length for walking the golf course or other athletic activities where he won't be sitting down and inadvertantly displaying a bit of bare leg. Stick with the over the calf version the rest of the time.

Choose the usual seasonal colors for autumn. The cinnamon pair shown adds interest to khaki, corduroy and moleskin trousers.