Il Regalo f/w 2024

Rewind back a couple of years and I can assure you I never would imagine a sartorial interest could lead to me writing about socks. Even more so, a specific seasonal collection. But here I am. Writing about socks.

I wrote about Il Regalo a year or two ago after my initial encounter with the brand, prompted by my enthusiasm for the quality this brand represents and what they bring to the table visually. Since then it seems more people have been made aware of Il Regalo and I see a lot of people sharing my enthusiasm, rightfully so.

As for this article, the reason for my enthusiasm is almost the opposite of previous impressions and perhaps this is only relevant to people whom follow the brand closely. But first.

If you are new to Il Regalo, or wondering why people are talking about them, I would suggest watching my friend Chris and his insightful (and humorous) YouTube video on the subject. Everything you need to know about quality and craftsmanship is thoroughly explained in an entertaining way. Honestly, he is unmatched, so give the guy a follow (or subscribe as they say) if you’re interested in classic menswear.

So why am I talking about this collection?

Il Regalo have some of the most interesting pattern and color choices available beknown to me. They’ve set themselves apart by taking that extra step out of the comfort zone without it seeming like a disingenuous gimmick. Since they are a sock brand this might seem obvious, but their socks aren’t the type of bland socks you just add to the basket to get free shipping, they aren’t covering all the basics to assure sales. They are genuinely intriguing and inspired designs without compromising to please the majority market. And as mentioned in Chris’ video, nor are they compromising on quality either.

But, since I started my affiliation with the brand the one thing I felt was missing was a broader range of in-between options, especially for fall and winter. Not basic, not boring, but just that slight step down to accomodate a more sombre, earthy palette, not to mention the textures we transition into as the days start becoming darker. And now it’s here.

Don’t get me wrong, there has been options, and stunning options as such, but for someone like me who sees socks as an integral part of the outfit a broad range of options is quite important.

Now the two most important factors the f/w’24 collection brings to the table is first and foremost a broader range of OTC (over the calf) socks, and, more “natural” earth tones.

Secondly, the combined colours in each model have a lesser contrast between them, still unique, still enough to impress, but in essence giving the socks in combination with, lets say flannel trousers a more smooth symbiosis.

Lastly, a lot of the socks in this collection have more season appropriate texture and density which is an important factor when you want to stay on top of your sock game in the colder months.

For the real enthusiasts, like myself, as if these new, slightly more tempered models weren't enough, you can bet they also came out with quite a few bolder pattern and color combinations as well. You can have a look among my picks from the collection at the bottom and give Il Regalo’s site a visit if you’re ready to up your sock game.

What I think this collection does for Il Regalo’s assortment as a whole is fill in the “gaps” sort to speak and the most impressive part is that they still do so without compromise. They aren’t caving in to demand or abandoning their aesthetic in any way. On the contrary, they’re showing us that they can provide these options while maintaining their identity, their uniqueness and equally importantly their level of quality.