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OK, then. I'm listening. Could you post some examples of socks that venture beyond the plain black, and what you wear them with?

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Wookie, I like grey or black socks with modest patterns unless I'm wearing some shade of brown/earthy tone, which gets its own matches.

Some have very tight patterns, which seem to go with more clothes than the ones with large or showy patterns, especially multi-colored ones. I've gotten nice compliments on tight herringbone patterns in a light grey. In general, thin, light greys that still call some subtle attention to themselves with a tight, subdued pattern are a nice blend of showing some unexpected style without making a fuss about it. These are the socks I've gotten the most comment upon, including many requests as to wear to buy them. I've generally just found them randomly at assorted department stores. They're almost a project to look for, because so many patterned socks are garish.

The more loud and big patterns can punch up an otherwise plain, subdued look. And if you're daring or good with fashion, matching these to an already more splashy overall look can give a good result. But for that, whoever is checking you out has to have more of an eye his/herself or your result can look overdone. Sticking to simpler things is a safer play that probably pleases more eyes.