Socks: A History

Since there have been humans, there have been socks.

The first socks in the Stone Age were made from animal skins tied around ankles. Gross, but a good start, I suppose. The 2nd century A.D. brought "udones," which were the first to be pulled over the foot.

The perfect sock for sandals (circa 1000 C.E.)

The real luxury began in Egypt during the 3rd-6th century, where the first knit socks were discovered. Around the same time Europeans were in the midst of combining breeches and hose to make tights. The beginning of the most uncomfortable garment ever invented. These poor people thought socks had to cover half of your body.

High fashion. High leg. Low practicality. (mid 1500s)

The first knitting machine was invented in 1589 when William Lee wanted all of his lady's attention. He was tired of her knitting all the time instead of checking him out so he created a more efficient way to knit. After the machines spread around Europe, knitted hose were the newest fad until cotton stole the show in the late 17th century.

"What the hell, Martha? Stop knitting and start kissing me." (1589)

Nylon brought elasticity in 1938 and argyle brought the first fashion statement in the 1920s. Socks have changed little since then, but have expanded in style, allowing for personal expression and creative outlet.

However they got here, we are glad that socks are here to stay. Where will they go from here? What is the future of socks? Dream on, sock people.

Source: http://www.lonelysock.com/SockHistory.html