Get a Leg Up

As it gets cooler outside, does the dress have to become a proverbial 'sleeping beauty' until awakened by spring's rejuvenating kiss? If the answer were 'yes' then this would be a very short post, but I can assume that by now you have realized that the answer is indeed the opposite. One of the trends this season to keep the higher hemline fashionable is none other than the knee-high sock.

These gorgeous gam covers have seen a lot of press, but none more notable than the Prada Fall 2010 runway show. Just about every model strutted down the catwalk sporting some variation of this fashionable hosiery. While cashmere OTK (over the knee) Prada may be virtually unattainable, wearing this trend certainly is not. Many retailers are selling various weights for you to wear out and about, allowing you to channel your inner schoolgirl.

As always, retailers love to splatter the market with a plethora of options in hopes to catch every opportunity....much like the way that a redneck might fish for supper using dynamite. Sure, it's effective, but how is one to make sense of all that visual chaos? Allow me to guide you. Here are a few helpful pointers:

• Stick with heavier fabrics....think wool or something that looks like wool. Not only are these more fashionable, but they will keep your sexy stems warmer.
  

• It might be tempting to go with something more off-the-wall, but subtle is a safer bet. Some of the season's best offerings are in the darker tones (black/grey/navy) and will keep you looking more Oxford, and less Japanese anime.
  

• Since the socks are darker, they usually will draw attention to your dress/skirt or your shoes. Pairing them with booties accomplishes two of the biggest below-the-waist trends with one "look."

Final Verdict: Whether you are are getting Urban Outfitters or Oscar de la Renta, I still recommend hand washing them in Woolite. It just isn't worth the wear and tear to save a few bucks by throwing them in with the rest of your laundry.