Best casual socks

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I've pretty much always worn standard white ankle or quarter socks from Hanes/Gildan/whatever low end brand I find at the Dollar Store or wherever, because they're just socks, so I figure why splurge, but I'm trying to dress a little better, and I hear white socks are bad. Besides, the type I'm buying hold up terribly. After a month or so, they usually have holes, and at a bare minimum, really deep dirt/jean stains that don't seem to wash off.

What type of socks should I be buying? I don't want to spend a ton of money. I'd like to be able to get at least a few pair for $20. I don't really think colorful/fun socks would suit me. I'd prefer something in black, grey, or navy. I've heard a lot of people recommend Darn Tough, but most of their socks seem to have noticeable branding, which I don't like. Any ideas?