Novelty socks are a great gift for acquaintances or people you don’t know well! They’re not an overly familiar present, nor are they inappropriate to give at a workplace party (depending on what’s on the socks, of course!).
Socks also usually fit a variety of foot sizes, so they should fit the recipient as well. Famous painting socks, or socks with animals, food, or fruit on them are all whimsical and make great novelty gifts.