Babble

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Socks are the bane of the infant wardrobe. Most socks in my household are crawled off, walked off, or pulled off and eaten by my nine-month-old. During my quest to find the perfect infant sock, I acquired these tips from veteran moms in the know:

1) Wash baby socks in a lingerie bag so they are easy to match up, or keep a jar in the laundry room to hold solo socks, going through occasionally to match up lost pairs.
2) Buy socks in one or two colors so you spend less time looking for matching pairs.
3) Mark the size of the sock on the heel with a small permanent marker. When you pull them out for the next kid or pass them down as hand-me-downs, it will be easier to tell what age they are for.

Whether you are looking for a sock that is warm, stylish, eco-friendly or just able to stay on your kid's foot, read on to find out about best baby booties in the business. – Katie Bayless



Petunia Pickle Bottom's Sock Gift Set
$13 for 3 pairs

If I had a nickel for every person who has made some comment about my son not wearing socks, I would probably have enough to get the large latte as opposed to the kiddie cup of caffeine I usually shell out for. And believe me, it's not for a lack of trying. If I could keep socks on him, I would. Then I found Petunia Pickle Bottom's Sock Gift Set, which includes a trio of striped socks with a flavorful color selection (including chocolate, orange, raspberry and lime). Three hours of crawling, one car trip, two naps, two high chair meals and one stroller ride later, they are still on.



Infant Socks : Runners-Up

Trumpette Socks - $24.50 for 6 pairs

In terms of style, Trumpette is the brand that seems to have a headlock on the rest of the baby sock world. Any Blackwell List-fearing fashionista under the age of five will be familiar with the brand. The most popular styles mimic sneakers, Mary Janes and ballet shoes, but their smartly packaged Half Dozen Collections have patterns ranging from jungle prints to polka dots. Pick up a pack next time you need a chic shower gift.

Organic Cotton Socks by Sage Baby - $5 a pair

Having a little one finally made me wise up to the dangers of pesticides and the benefits of going organic. These organic cotton socks by Sage Baby are made of thick, pesticide-free cotton. A built-in heel and a ribbed cuff help these eco-friendly booties stay on, and their cozy fit will make your grown-up feet envious.

Smartwool Stripe Infant Sock - $16 for 2 pairs

I've always relied on my thick, warm Smartwool socks for camping trips and snow days. Imagine my joy to discover that their infant socks are just as warm (and twice as stylish) as their adult line. This winter, my son was kept warm and dry with Smartwool stripe socks in Vapor/Burnt Orange. Available in two color schemes, this two-pack offers the warmth of wool and the ease of machine washing.

Old Navy Turn-Cuff Socks for Baby - $1.75 a pair

They may be cheap, but most of the moms I surveyed said that Old Navy's turn-cuff baby socks were best for everyday. While not much of a fashion statement, these socks are perfect for new crawlers and walkers who are bound to get prettier socks grubby. Seasoned moms recommend getting a handful of pairs in one or two colors.

©2007 Nerve Media

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