The history of men's socks

We rarely consider the origins of our everyday clothing. The shirt you wear, for example, or your jeans... Who decided our clothes should look this way and not otherwise? How has this evolved over time? Men's socks are another remarkable garment. And what a journey they've made! From animal hides to the wonderful cotton and wool socks we wear today. Want to read along?

The origin of socks

Socks have been around for centuries. Around the 8th century BC, people wore socks made from animal hides. Then came socks made from braided animal hair, primarily for warmth. These were tied around the ankle and were even one of the first garments people made for themselves! The word "socks" is derived from the Latin word "soccus."

The Roman sock

It wasn't until ancient Rome that we saw an evolution in socks. Known as "udones," socks were made of leather or fabric and decorated with patterns. This garment was especially popular among the upper classes and symbolized status.

The knitted sock

Another important change occurred in the 16th century with the invention of the knitting machine, a major breakthrough. Socks could now be made more quickly and were more accessible to a wider audience. As a result, socks became an integral part of European clothing. They were usually decorated with lace or embroidery. The length of socks varied considerably, depending on the prevailing fashion. They were almost always worn with garters to keep them in place. Around 1800, socks were machine-made from wool, cotton, and silk.

The 20th century

The role of men's socks naturally remained functional, but their appearance also began to play a greater role. The introduction of nylon made men's socks more elastic and easy to dye. Various materials were available in vibrant and eye-catching colors.

A fashion item

Today, men's socks have become a staple in our wardrobes. They're available in a plethora of styles, colors, and patterns, and people often choose socks based on their outfit or mood. From classic solid-color socks to bold, patterned socks, the possibilities are endless. Today, you can choose high-quality men's socks that offer optimal comfort. At least, you can at Carlo Lanza. Order them here !