Extolling the perfection of a ‘beautiful sunset’ and the ‘giggle of a grandchild’, American writer Sharon Draper said: ‘It’s the little things that make happy moments, not the grand events. Joy comes in sips, not gulps.’

The notion that the little things in life can bring significant happiness is the cornerstone of London Sock Co. After all, what could be a more simple pleasure than a pair of socks?

Founded by enterprising friends Ryan Palmer and Dave Pickard in 2013, London Sock Co. specialises in quality, stylish socks delivered in thoughtfully curated gift boxes or via the popular ‘Sock Club’ monthly subscription service. Crafted from premium Scottish Lisle cotton yarn, these are the kind of socks that find their way onto the feet of film stars and CEOs, and in the pages of Esquire fashion shoots. Designed by a top team of creative talent who collaborate with stylists and up-and-coming designers, they are the antithesis of cheap, novelty socks bought as throwaway stocking fillers.

While coming up with ideas for their start-up company, Ryan and Dave were inspired by the growing presence of online subscription services and the communities they create. Over the years, London Sock Co. has expanded its gifting options and online community with innovative partnerships. This includes collaborations with London gin distillery Sipsmith and Glenfiddich whisky on two gift boxes that pair socks with spirits. Further showcasing their fashion credentials, the brand also recently collaborated with celebrity stylist Ilaria Urbinati, whose A-list clientele includes Armie Hammer, Rami Malek and Chris Evans, on the Hollywood Collection.

For Ryan and Dave – and the brand’s legion of fans and subscribers – there is no better way to add a touch of pizzazz and a spring in your step than a perky pair of socks. These are modern, elevated accessories; something to complement an outfit, and not a bland necessity. With both founders hailing from corporate backgrounds, Ryan and Dave were familiar with the City’s stringent dress code, and how a stylish accessory has the power to bring an outfit together and express the wearer’s personality.

In 2020, the world of work has been turned on its head. Almost overnight, the 9-5 office worker has gone from wearing a freshly pressed suit every day to navigating the new ‘norm’ of working from home. When a full-time job and home life collide, what It’s the little things The humble sock has proved big business for London Sock Co., which combines premium materials with stylish design and a clever subscription model to deliver happiness in every step we wear can suddenly take something of a back seat. While formal dressing and the ‘normal’ rules of everyday life have gone out of the window, taking pleasure in the little things – a quiet stroll in the park or wearing a jazzy pair of socks on your morning Zoom call – once again come to the fore.

Clothing has the power to instill confidence. London Sock Co. was founded on the basis that ‘pulling on a great pair of socks in the morning has the power to transform not just your style, but your state of mind.’ When it comes to expressing who we are through what we wear, a little, indeed, goes a long way.

Starting from £12; londonsockcompany.com