'Socks you want to be noticed': Not your everyday mundane fashion item

A pile of shiny metallic socks in various colours. They resemble foil balloons, make a crackling sound when slipped on and, for a growing number of people, have become a simple luxury. Photo: The New York Times

The socks look like deflated foil balloons and make a faint crackling sound when you first put them on.

They are made in Italy and cost about US$50 (approximately RM221) a pair – a price that some say is worth it for the joy the socks have inspired.