Socks - A History of Warm Ankles and Dry Feet

Socks have come a long way over the last few centuries. Did you know the first socks in ancient Greece were made from matted animal hair? Thankfully, socks today are a little less rustic. Let's take a look at the history of some popular socks.

Knitted Socks

Before the invention of the knitting loom in 1589, socks were hand knitted and were seen as a status symbol since not everyone could afford them. The loom made more sock fabrics widely available and affordable to all, so socks quickly gained popularity as a way to keep your feet warm and dry no matter what type of shoes you were wearing. 

Mass Produced

The industrial revolution brought about the mass production of socks and thus many different choices. Thin black socks became the norm for menswear while brightly colored patterned socks for children and light neutral colors for women became popular. 

Modern Options

Nowadays there aren't many fashion rules for socks. You aren't limited to plain black socks at work anymore. In fact, a fun patterned sock is more usual than the boring plain variety. Wearing a fun striped pattern, like these socks by Robert Graham are a great way to add some pizzazz to your work wardrobe. And no one will even know!  Or try a trendy buffalo check pattern sock like this one with your jeans and sneakers.

Old Standbys

Of course, as they say, if it's not broke, don't fix it. Some things become classics for a reason like the thick white gym socks that become popular in the 1950s. They are still a staple for anyone with an active lifestyle. At Frank's Big and Tall, we carry these classics in wide sizes as well, which can be hard to find.

No matter what kind of sock you're looking for, we carry it at all our Frank's Big and Tall locations in East Brunswick, Ocean Township or Morristown. Come browse our wide selection today.