The transformative power of a really beautiful pair of socks
Good socks aren't just a practical necessity — they can be far more than that, as Ryan Palmer and Dave Pickard of The London Sock Company told Giles Kime.
Why socks?
We wanted to create something that would make a stylish sartorial statement and also provide an opportunity to treat yourself (or someone else) to an accessible luxury that can significantly enhance your experience of everyday life.
Are they for business of pleasure?
Both. When we were working in the corporate world, we realised that socks offer a chance to personalise business dress. And now that ties are no longer obligatory in the workplace, socks can make a discreet but distinctive style statement. People really notice them. Better still, they really inspire confidence, whatever you’re doing.
What makes them different?
Before we launched The London Sock Company we spent a long time in the factory exploring different ways to create the fabric and construct our socks until we knew that we had the best possible product. The secret lies in a fabric that is both finely woven and also very strong.
How have your collections evolved?
Having established our Simply Sartorial collection that offers a rainbow of strong, confident colours – and which remains our best seller – we have taken a playful approach to patterns and textures. We have added jacquards, herringbones, merinos and cashmeres to the range.
And what about collaborations?
We are really excited to have launched a collection that is the result of our partnership with the world renowned McLaren Automotive. Eight pairs of socks and striking packaging interpret its distinctive orange.
Why are your boxes as high quality as your socks?
Our view is that it’s the small things that make a big difference; we firmly believe that buying online can also be a luxurious experience, so we maintain the same approach to every aspect of what we do, from customer service to packaging in which your socks arrive.
Given you have such a dizzying choice, do you help customers choose?
We offer lots of pointers, with suggestions of socks for different purposes such as working in the city, attending interviews, relaxing at the weekend and date nights. We also highlight socks that would be a good choice for creatives.
What else sets you apart?
Our sock club provides our customers with an opportunity to subscribe to a monthly delivery of new socks, either for themselves or as a gift for others from as little as £10 a month.
Are your socks only available online?
No, they are available at both Fortnum & Mason and at Harrods during Christmas.
The London Sock Company — www.londonsockcompany.com
Exquisite houses, the beauty of Nature, and how to get the most from your life, straight to your inbox.
-
'Wade through a bog in the morning and then waltz into The Ritz for breakfast': For fashion and function, you can't beat country clothingFor the fashion conscious city dweller, the lines between rural and urban are blurring, especially in outerwear, says Madeleine Silver.
-
Staffordshire's fairytale flatpack glass palace destroyed by Second World War soldiersThe repeal of a tax on glass led to the construction of some awesome hot- and glasshouses, including the one at Enville Hall.
-
A very English house abroadAt 276 years old, Swaine is embarking on its most ambitious chapter yet, with new boutiques in France and the USA, plus trunk shows to carry the House to its clients.
-
Reader Event: Jewels of distinction at Elizabeth GageCountry Life readers are invited to an exclusive private Christmas salon at Elizabeth Gage in Belgravia on Wednesday, November 25.
-
The Art of Effortlessness: Code8 Beauty Finds the Modern Woman's Cheat CodeLooking effortless needn't take hours — just great products, and that's where Code8 comes in.
-
Happily-ever-after treasures created by Cece JewelleryCece Jewellery’s latest collection — Once Upon A Time — brings to life figures from fairytales, dreamlike settings and romantic charms.
-
'The Art of Living Well Longer': A wellbeing event at KYN HurlinghamConsider this your invitation to discover a quietly revolutionary approach to later life.
-
Reader event: A rare glimpse into the world of Elizabeth GageThe iconic jeweller Elizabeth Gage is opening up her workshop to a small group of Country Life readers in an intimate event on Wednesday, May 13.
-
Couture’s best-kept secretBased in the heart of London’s Belgravia, Stewart Parvin’s timeless womenswear guarantees the wearer will make an impression, whatever the social occasion.
-
Jewels of the Mediterranean: Luxury multi-generational villa holidaysThe Thinking Traveller have some of the finest villas in the Mediterranean on their books for multi-generational holidays. Here are just a few of the highlights.