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When it comes to your next fancy event, you're going to need one of these pairs.

I just put on a pair of dress socks. As I’m writing this (meta, right?), I'm also getting ready to head to a dinner—one with assigned seating, one prepared by a Michelin-starred chef. This means I need to actually put on something presentable; my go-to sweats and leopard-print sneakers, however sleek they are, aren’t going to cut it. I’m wearing skinny black jeans, a blue slim-fit dress shirt, a belt with a pronounced gold buckle, beige loafers with gold hardware, and dress socks in chocolate brown. Mine are from Stance.

Normally, I’d either be wearing ankle socks or something chunky as I walk the three blocks to get myself a cheesesteak and fries. But because I’m going to this shindig, I need something right for the occasion, something elevated. This is basically the defining characteristic of dress socks: a pair that’s more refined than what I’d wear to my local deli. It could be made of silk, cotton, or wool; feature a pattern or come in neutral colors; have a textured surface or not. It just has to be, well, dressier.

And if you, too, have plans to head somewhere fancy, or if you need to pair something with a suit and oxfords, check out some of the best dress socks out there.

A pair of socks, inspired by Duchamp’s fountain sculpture, that'll definitely put a smile on your face. They're from a brand called Happy Socks, after all.

If you're the type of guy who still values dressing up for flights, just take a look at the name of these streamlined, thermal-regulation socks from Falke.

Pantherella's socks are simple, elegant, and won't break the bank. This is basically the trifecta you need.

It really come as no surprise that J.Crew, purveyor of all things classic, offers some of the best, no-fuss dress socks around.

Stance is a brand that prides itself in offering the sturdiest socks—the kinds of styles with built-in arch support arch support and targeted cushioning. The brand's collections, especially its dress socks, don't disappoint.

A durable, cushioned set from Amazon's in-house label.

Cole Haan consistently offers well-made dress shoes at a bargain, so it should come as no surprise that the brand offers socks with the same quality and price point—and some damn fine stripes, too.

When it comes to fine Italian cotton, Marcoliani, a label that's been around for six decades, is the name to know.

Ralph Lauren is a label that offers a complete head-to-toe look that is always refined, with designs that are made with the finest fabrics. Case in point: these Egyptian cotton dress socks.

The world of Paul Smith is filled with bold colors and patterns, all cut to impart distinction and professionalism. You might think that these characteristics are at odds, but not in Smith's universe.

Anonymous Ism is a celebrated Japanese label that specializes in socks, all kinds of socks, offering a wide range options that'll help you stand out. It's a sock brand for fervent sock fans.

Yes, these are cotton socks, but Anderson & Sheppard takes them to a whole other level.

Cashmere: a fabric so plush, so luxe, and so insulating. And if you're the kind of guy who values all those characteristics, these Doré Doré socks are what you need.

From dress shirts to ties, Charvet, a storied brand that's been around for over a century, never fails to offer the kinds of top-quality pieces that'll endure.

In the socks game, Bombas is a gold medal-contender. From the quality to the price, there's nothing wrong with this MVP. You'll definitely want to stock up. Better yet, get the four-pack.

Nice Laundry knows how to do professional, injected with a tasteful amount of levity.

Silk. Socks. Really doesn't get much better than that.

Fear of God: minimalism at its finest. That pretty much sums up all all of the brand's designs, including its dress socks.

Macramé aint for everyone, suffice it say, but if you dig it, Fendi has an incredibly sleek option that'll add a little something-something to your fit.

Like Thom Browne's signature shrunken suits, but in sock form.

Want to impart instant cachet in high-fashion circles? It doesn't get anymore recognizable than Gucci's GG pattern.