All I want for Christmas: socks (no, really!)

It's a staple of gift-giving humour isn't it, the sock? From the dad pretending to be excited about yet another pair of socks and a tie from his loving brood, to the teenager who knows that the parcel from Great Aunt Eustace will contain a pair of sensible socks, a floral hanky and $2.00 "to buy yourself something nice, dear".

But, if you've ever checked out Sock Dreams, you'll know that socks can actually be pretty awesome - provided they're the right socks.

There's some socks there I'd love to find in my santa stocking. (Geddit, stocking? Sock humour! Ba-doom tish!)

Lace Topped Over the Knee, US$15.00.

Cherry Blossom Knee Highs, US$7.00.

Sock It To Me Stripey Cats, US$7.00.

Some things that 14 Year Old Daughter is bound to love:

Skull Tights, US$7.00.

Fingerless Skull Gloves, US$10.00.

Striped Thigh High With Skull Tops, US$6.00.

Something for the Gothic Lolitas:

Fishnet Knee Highs With Garter Tops, US$8.00.

Striped Thigh High With Poker Suit Back Seam, US$8.00.

And for lovers of vintage fashion:

Vertical Crochet Tights With Lace Details, US$9.00.

Fern Lace Stay-Up Thigh Highs, US$20.00.

And even some socks your poor beleagured dad might actually like to receive:

Sock It To Me Bring It Bot, US$7.00.

Sourpuss Men's Pirate Midcalves, US$13.00.