PUT A SOCK IN IT: 7 PAIRS OF SUSTAINABLE SOCKS I LOVE
If you follow me on Instagram, or are a long-time newsletter subscriber, you’ll know that I am the queen of layers. Being Vata-dominant (take my Dosha test here) I am nearly ALWAYS cold, so layering for me is not a question of following a trend, it’s out of necessity — though that doesn’t mean I can’t incorporate a bit of style whilst I’m donning my many pieces. Socks are a must-have, and much to the gratitude of my toes, socks and sandals are also currently a big trend. Love it or hate it — everyone is doing it! OK, maybe not everyone, but before you write it off, try it — you might be surprised how much you like it. Read on for my round-up of sustainable sock brands and my selects which are perfect for wearing with loafers, trainers and sandals.
Courtesy: Swedish Stockings
Swedish Stockings is a hosiery brand on a mission to replace the nylon yarn most often used in hosiery with recycled and eco-friendly materials, with all hosiery produced in zero-waste factories and using renewable energy. These semi-sheer shimmery socks come in wine or black and will jazz up any outfit and I covet everything they design — these would not be out of place on a luxe fashion site. Made from recycled yarn, this is hosiery made to be seen.
Courtesy: Colorful Standard
Colours and simplicity are at the heart of Colorful Standard. They design basics — from t-shirts to beanies — made to last, using all organic cotton and ensuring fair working conditions. I love the sunny mustard colour of these ribbed socks (which look great pulled up taut or slouched), but they come in loads more shades if yellow (my favourite colour!!!) is not your cup of tea!
Courtesy: People Tree
I’m a big fan of People Tree (their jammies are the comfiest!), whose core mission has stayed the same over the past three decades: every product is made to the highest ethical and environmental standards from start to finish. These playful patterned socks are made by People Tree Fair Trade producer partner Bulus Socks using 98% GOTS certified organic cotton and 2% elastane. One of my besties bought me a polka dot pair for Christmas to wear on New Year's Day — a Filipino tradition of polka dots for luck that has been taken up by my closest friends.
Courtesy: Organic Basics
Organic Basics is out to clean up the fashion industry. They put sustainability at the centre of everything they do, designing products that last, with function and simplicity in mind. They work with certified factory partners, ensuring sustainable practices and fair labour across the production process. I’m really feeling the dusty rose of these socks, but they come in four other subdued shades to suit every mood.
Courtesy: Seasalt
Seasalt Cornwall is a pretty special brand, based on creativity and sustainability. Everything they create is Cornish-inspired, produced through ethical and sustainable practices, with respect for people and planet. They use sustainable materials including GOTS organic cotton, support charities through donations and volunteering, work with ethical suppliers and do everything they can to reduce waste. These bamboo floral socks are so whimsical you’ll find it hard to choose just one pair!
Courtesy: Kind Socks
Stephen Steele had the idea for Kind Socks one morning when he couldn’t find a pair of clean socks. He realised that when it came to socks, he often had to choose between bright colours and a sustainable product, so he combined the two aspects into what is now Kind Socks. Every pair is ethically manufactured in a safe facility where workers are paid a fair wage, and made from non-toxic materials. Kind Socks is also committed to giving back to charity. And tiger-print socks made from GOTS certified organic cotton, grown without chemical pesticides and fertilisers? Yes, please!
Courtesy: Etsy/MAiKLifestyle
MAiKLifestyle socks are ethically made in a family-run factory in France from yarn spun in Italy and Portugal and dyed with eco-friendly pigments. I think this colourful houndstooth pair is so much fun and will add a little oomph to even the most simple, pared back capsule wardrobe.
