Male stockings

The impeccable look on a Monday morning, at a social or casual function, is usually breathtaking. However, for the men, whatever lies beneath the lovely shoes is a question that is left unanswered to many.

Men, like the ladies, have “lingerie�. I am not talking about the obvious under garments but the smallest pair in the lingerie sect - which is the socks.

To most men, walking out of the house without a pair of socks is close to impossible. Some go as far as wearing the same pair everyday as long as the feet are covered up as they slide into the shoes. However, socks, just like any other outfit, play a vital role and deserve attention.

While at a house party last Saturday, one gentleman was shocked at learning that he had to remove his shoes before entering the house. He had no choice but to boldly expose his feet, which were covered up in a torn pair of nylon socks.

As if that was not enough, the obnoxious smell that filled the air after he removed his shoes left most of the guests running out for fresh air. Not even his expensive outfit could compensate for his embarrassment that evening.

Just like shirts, trousers and all, socks too have a lot to do with fashion and fashion statements. It is important to include them on your shopping list and have them in mind even as you get ready for the day. Of course this includes taking care of them and having them in various types and colours.

The question as to how many pairs one should have is still a mystery. Some think that one pair can do, and to others more than one is quite appropriate. The fact that one can go a day without exposing what is under the shoes should not be taken for granted.

Margaret Nampala, a housewife, has got seven pairs of socks for her husband. She feels it is better for men to have as many pairs as possible for hygienic purposes.

Socks are meant to prevent the inner parts of the shoes from wearing out. As we go through the day, our bodies sweat; therefore it is important that we wear socks to protect the feet and shoes, and avoid the bad odour that might form as a result of the dirt and sweat.

Socks come in types of cotton and nylon mainly. There is also the thick and very thin type. The thick type is mainly worn on cold or chilly days to keep the feet warm. The thin type is well suited for the hot days.

In most cases, a long day’s work calls for the thin type because they keep you comfortable as you run the day’s errands.

The sizes also vary from small to large so it is important to know which size suits your feet best.

It is imperative to match the socks with the particular outfit that one intends to wear such that incase the trousers slide up; the inner view is still worth looking at.

There is also the short type of stockings that are meant for casual occasions. These stockings go as far as the ankle. An evening at the gym necessitates these as opposed to those that go as far as the calf or mid leg. Also, this type matched with the necessary casual pair of shoes suits the weekend out with family and friends.

To maintain their longevity, socks should be well taken care of. It helps if they are washed immediately after they are worn. Wash them with lukewarm water and a mild detergent. Also, pay attention to the elasticity to avoid overly stretching them.

Keep away from rubbing even as you wash. Instead, dip them up and down slowly. After washing, rinse thoroughly until the water is clear.

Unlike other types of clothes, socks are delicate so squeeze lightly to remove the water and lay them on a flat surface to dry, a towel preferably. Do not wear them until they have thoroughly dried up.

Depending on where you shop, a pair of socks will cost you between Shs2,000 to Shs9,600. As a tip, it might help if you bought at least three pairs at a go. This could save you the trouble of postponing when to actually buy your next pair.

It gives great satisfaction to know that you are smart and neat right from the inside so men, go ahead and boost your confidence by paying attention to your socks as you dress up for the day.