Chris, came back to this today after a bit. Here is a view to consider.
Dressing properly is a 100% commitment. You can't do 90% and say it's OK. For example, I have seen Tiger do some great stuff (low black socks on hot days, with black pants), but then he wears a black belt with white shoes. That's a no-no. I've seen Earnie Els with white low socks and black pants... Ewwww!
So even if you travel, you have got to cover all the bases. I always coordinate my socks to either my shirt or my trousers. I'm a bit wacky (OK, a lot wacky) and my socks include red, ornage, light blue argyles and herringbone, dark blue with argyles or patterns, green, tan, brown, olive, and of course... black. Throw in a few with stripes and I have a major drawer full of options. It's not that hard to throw a couple extra pairs of socks in the suitcase when you travel in order to make sure you are covered.
A great pair of socks with nicely polished shoes can really get some attention, especially in the sea of khaki out there today!