November 11th is designated as "Sock Day" because the number "11" resembles two pairs of socks placed side by side, and also represents a pair. This day was established in 1993 by the Japan Sock Association, making it a venerable anniversary day celebrating its 30th anniversary this year. To celebrate this auspicious day, the sock department on the first basement floor of Isetan Shinjuku Store, Men's Building is trying out a new product lineup that includes sports socks and specialty brands that they haven't carried before. We spoke to buyer Kimura about this new product selection.

"High-spec socks for serious competitive sports are available in specialized sports stores, with lineups tailored to each sport. But when it comes to casual sports like going to the gym, jogging, or playing futsal after work, it's hard to know what kind of socks to wear. With the rise of office casual and jacket-and-pants styles, there's a growing demand for functional and stylish socks that are suitable for commuting in sneakers, and with the expansion of formal dress codes, there's a wide variety of fashionable socks available. We want November 11th to be an event day dedicated to proposing new scenarios for socks."

Although people are gradually returning to the office, working from home has become a rotational practice, and it's said that there are more days when people don't wear socks. However, with more opportunities to go out again, more people are buying new socks. Furthermore, ankle-length pants have become commonplace, but the "no-socks" trend of the past has subsided, and fashionable socks are being re-evaluated. New suggestions for coordinating socks with shoes are also being made, and it seems that the sock industry is quietly making moves.

"The evolution of knitting technology, which has made it possible to create precise patterns and three-dimensional knits, is also a driving force in creating new socks. Until now, I don't think there have been many projects that focus on socks, so that's why Isetan Shinjuku Store, Men's Building , is not only focusing on expanding our standard sock selection, but also on challenging ourselves with new things."

We asked enthusiastic buyer Kimura to personally explain the featured sock brands for this collection. Check out the hottest selections from three categories: sports, casual, and dressy.

Sports: Bring the functionality of authentic sports socks to your everyday footwear.

From realistic competitive sports scenes to active everyday looks, when styling sneakers, you'll want to pair them with sports socks. Therefore, we've selected sports sock brands worn by serious athletes. This collection, which incorporates the functionality of professional athletes into casual socks for everyday use, is a high-performance lineup making its debut at Isetan Shinjuku.

OLENO wool socks featuring sports functionality developed for professional athletes.

The "Performance Wool Crew" socks incorporate the features athletes demand from their socks into a casual sock. Made with carefully selected merino wool, they are suitable for all seasons. The arch support area offers high compression, while the heel area has excellent elasticity; the knit pattern is changed for each part to ensure a comfortable fit.

The toe area is designed symmetrically for a better fit. The flat, non-bulky stitching at the toe is another thoughtful detail. The upper is made of mesh, and the sole is made of high-density terry cloth for cushioning. The panel colors for each part are also distinctive, with a vivid color used around the ankle area being a notable feature.

Athleisure-style outfits are typically paired with sneakers, so a color scheme of gray with a pop of orange would really bring out the sporty feel. It would also complement trendy ankle-length jogging pants.

The key to choosing the latest VIBSOX socks is "cleanliness" through deodorizing and antibacterial properties.

"VIBTEX" stands for "VIRUS BLOCKING TEXTILE," an antiviral treatment developed by a domestic textile manufacturer. It works by chemically reacting with oxygen and moisture in the air to break down harmful substances such as bacteria and viruses that adhere to the fibers. VIBTEX products are produced using this technology, starting from the yarn. One of its features is that the 100% cotton material feels great against the skin. It has also collaborated with brands such as FreshService and BIOTOP, and is attracting attention from various quarters.

The leg opening is made of a double layer of gauze material that fits comfortably loosely. This reduces the likelihood of ribbing marks on the skin and minimizes stuffiness and itchiness. The opening is also double-layered with ribbing to prevent slipping. The arch support is high compression, the sole is made of terry cloth for enhanced cushioning, and some models even have mesh material on the instep, demonstrating the attention to detail. It seems like it will fit a variety of occasions, from sports to everyday wear and business casual.

Even fluorescent green socks, which can be tricky to coordinate with other colors, can be easily paired with high-tech sneakers that incorporate pop colors. A luxurious yet sporty look for your feet becomes effortless.

Smart Casual: Smart casual style with the latest features.

In recent years, business casual attire has become increasingly diverse, with office dress codes increasingly allowing both leather shoes and sneakers. In this context, socks that can be worn with both leather shoes and sneakers are incredibly useful. The simple, versatile socks that go with any shoes that I will introduce below are arguably the most sought-after socks right now.

RANGL L-shaped socks researched for ultimate comfort.

The shaft section features a special knit for a soft fit. The four-stage knitting that curves from the ankle enhances the fit around the heel, and the technology to achieve this knitting is extremely rare. The exhilarating feeling you get the moment you put them on, and the cutting-edge comfort that is said to unravel the feelings of your feet while wearing them, are all created by the latest technology.

For autumnal suede loafers, medium-weight socks in a contrasting color would be a good match. Langle offers a range of simple colors that are easy to coordinate, so this kind of combination is recommended.

YUQRI slowly blends "expert craftsmanship" with "cutting-edge technology."

These socks are also state-of-the-art in terms of functionality. Yukuri Protection socks are functional socks with antibacterial, odor-eliminating, and antimicrobial properties. Furthermore, the soles use adhesive yarn, which firmly grips the leather insoles of leather shoes that tend to slip. These socks make leather shoes, which can be slippery inside, much easier to wear.

Be careful when pairing light gray flannel pants with dark-colored socks, as this can make your legs look shorter. Plain gray socks are recommended instead. They create a visual effect that makes your legs appear longer, as the pants and ankles blend seamlessly.

Dress Up: A dressy style that starts from your feet.

Regardless of business settings, when wearing a suit to a glamorous occasion like a party, you'll likely choose top-of-the-line leather shoes. While dark, plain socks were traditionally the norm, nowadays there's a wider range of color and pattern options available. However, surprisingly, patterned dress socks are hard to find. So, we asked popular women's brands to create patterned men's socks.

Kiwanda: Avant-garde and mysterious glimpses of color and pattern

The use of colors and patterns not commonly found in men's socks, and the creation of patterns based on a theme each season, are hallmarks of designer socks. This season, the theme is "Black Magic," and they are offering a wide variety of mysterious colors and patterns. The precise patterns, showcasing the skill, knowledge, and design prowess of these designers, are a must-see.

The avant-garde and bold use of colors and patterns glimpsed in the women's line sold in the main store is fully showcased in these men's socks as well. These unprecedented colors and patterns are sure to appeal to fashion-conscious men of all ages. They're sure to add a touch of flair to any dressy style.

For a dressed-up suit style, delicate knitted socks add a touch of flair to the feet. Using unexpected colors and patterns in socks, like paying attention to the lining of a jacket, conveys the refined taste of a stylish gentleman.