Mes Chaussettes Rouges: the Paris shop that keeps popes and lovers of fine socks well stocked

In Paris’s 15th arrondissement, Mes Chaussettes Rouges has made premium socks its specialty. The shop stocks, among other things, the famous styles made by the tailors to the popes, as well as hundreds of pairs in carefully selected colors and fabrics.

Cardinals’ socks may be red, but they’re not reserved for grand ceremonies at the Vatican. You can even buy them in Paris, at 9 rue César Franck in the 15th arrondissement, at Mes Chaussettes Rouges. Behind this rather self-explanatory name is a shop that takes an accessory often relegated to the back of a drawer very seriously—and has a few stories to tell about what lies beneath its stitches.

It all began in 2009, when Jacques Tiberghien and Vincent Metzger, two childhood friends, decided to sell socks by Gammarelli, the famous Roman tailor who has been dressing popes since the late 18th century. Until then, you had to go to Rome to get your hands on these styles, prized by a small circle of connoisseurs. The idea caught on, and the range gradually expanded, turning the shop into a destination for quality socks.

Today, more than 600 styles make up the collection, including brands such as Gammarelli, Bresciani, Gallo and Mazarin, the label created by the founders. Red remains an iconic color, but the palette goes far beyond it: green, purple, blue, beige, vibrant shades or more understated combinations—everyone can find the hue that suits them.

You can also choose your socks according to their fabric and intended use. Lisle cotton, merino wool, cashmere, silk, fine styles to wear with a suit, over-the-calf socks that stay up under trousers, or more casual pairs: the selection gives this accessory a whole new dimension. The finishing touches matter too, especially hand-linked seams and reinforcement in areas prone to wear. All the socks are knitted in Italy.

The finishing touch? Personalized embroidery of initials, making it possible to give a more personal pair, complete with the house’s signature red pouch. You can also have fun with historical references, such as the green socks inspired by the uniforms worn by members of the Académie française.

A stone’s throw from Ségur metro station, this boutique appeals as much to fans of elegant menswear as to lovers of beautiful accessories—including women. It’s a reminder that an impeccable suit can come down to the choice of socks, too—and that they shouldn’t always be left in the shadow of your trousers.