Leg Warming For Fall

With cool weather on the horizon, now is an excellent time to start stocking up on those pieces of apparel that will prove so lifesaving when the chilly days arrive. For me, the most important article I am stocking up on is legwear. I am an enormous baby when it comes to cold weather, so it's important that I have fall clothing that is both cute and warm - and nothing is better equipped to handle this than a great pair of tights or leggings.

My favorite place to purchase tights, leggings and socks is Sockdreams.com. I first blogged about Sockdreams several years ago, when I had another blog, entitled Pieeyeddesign.com. Since then, I am happy to report that Sockdreams has branched out - they now have a physical storefront in Portland, and their online selection is better than ever.


Clockwise from Left Simone's Argyle Tights in Dark Orange, Simone's Wide Striped Tights in Wine,Simone's Argyle Tights in Dark Green,Simone's Wide Striped Tights in Navy

The one thing to note about Sockdreams.com is that their inventory changes constantly - which is great for selection, but it's wise to keep in mind that if you see something you like, you should grab it up fast! Hopping on last night, I couldn't help but grab up a few styles that were being removed from their inventory permanently. These will be perfect for those fall and winter days when I will be desperate to keep my legs warm.



Clockwise from Left American Apparel Shiny Legging in Eel, SockDreams Ribbed Cotton Tights in Black, American Apparel Shiny Legging in Lame' Black

Another staple for this autumn and fall are black leggings. Warm and adaptable, they are a great touch to any cool weather outfit. Even better, there are a mind blowing selection available today, in a variety of colors, styles and sizes. I nabbed up three new pairs for this fall: a standard knit set from SockDreams, and two sets of shiny leggings from American Apparel in Black Eel and Lame' Black. The Lame' Black have a matte, almost rubber look, which will be perfect to spice up and warm up any short dresses and skirts. A good tip is that you can also purchase leggings in a size up, to create a looser, more pants-like piece (just make sure the booty doesn't sag ;), which is just what I did with the Black Eel style. Since the leg is longer on a larger size, the leggings bunch a bit around my ankles, creating a fun, casual look that will be perfect for large tops and sweaters.

For all tights and leggings, the most important thing to remember is CARE. Leggings need to be treated with kid gloves to maintain their elasticity, color and quality. Read the care directions carefully on all pairs you purchase. If directions state that machine washing can be used, make sure you invest in a laundry bag to pop them in, or you might find yourself out one pair of leggings, and in one enormous KNOT. Personally, I find the best method of care is to hand wash your tights and leggings in warm water with a little bit of Woolite, and then hang dry. It also tends to feel very glamorous hanging hosiery all over your pad (though I am sure Fiance Kaboom would disagree;).