When you walk into a department store and see socks decorated with palm trees, flying pigs, cupcakes, and rainbows, it’s obvious that they were created with the fun-hearted person in mind.
But what if there is more to these crazy patterned pieces of clothing? What if they reveal something about the people who chose to wear them?It turns out that’s exactly what they do. They give society a little glance into their owner’s personality. Wearing these wacky patterns and crazy colors makes a statement to society in regards to your personality.
People who wear these socks are typically rebellious and boldly expressive. These same people refuse to conform to social trends or be limited to what society says is “in.” They are also displaying their playful personalities and unique individuality.
As put by Quartz contends, crazy socks create a vivacious and intriguing image, especially in the workplace:
“Colorful or character socks show playfulness and make a great icebreaker or way to connect with others
…Another possible advantage of wearing fanciful socks and other unexpected attire: You build a brand as ‘the gutsy guy’ or a creative type and over time, it may give you more room to bend or break rules.”
As research proves, the clothes people wear often reveals a bit about their personality and can determine how others view them. Research has also indicated that they clothes people wear can help determine how they feel about themselves. I don’t know about you, but I always feel confident if I know I look nice.
Dr. Adam Galinsky, a social psychologist from the Northwestern University conducted a study that was highlighted by the New York Times, that determined clothing choices also affect the cognitive process. This is related to embodied cognition, that determines humans think with both their brains and their bodies.
Speaking with the Times, Galinsky stated:
“Clothes invade the body and brain, putting the wearer into a different psychological state.”
To put it more simply, the clothes you wear can actually change the way you think, feel and act. I know this to be true for myself, as I said earlier, when I look good I feel more confident. When I feel confident I am more apt to act boldly and go after what I want.
It would make sense then, to say that when people feel good about what they are wearing they may end up being more successful, due to their confidence boost. Those who are confident enough to wear whatever they want and embrace who they are can probably go after their aspirations at full speed, not lacking the bravery or commitment it may require. And even if they don’t succeed, at least they looked good in the process!
Wacky socks are seen more and more, but the New York Times notes,
“Showy socks hark back to the 1700s, when people wore them embroidered or in outlandish colors, fashion historians say.”
It seems even then there were people who embraced and flaunted their uniqueness and could care less about conforming to societal trends.
Today, many successful people sport these silly socks. I’m talking everyone from executives to valedictorians to former presidents. It looks like success and socks might have some sort of connection after all!
If you sport these crazy colors and patterns, kudos to you for embracing your individuality and being confident in your taste. And if not, try a pair out and let us know how it goes!