The tradition of Christmas stockings traverses the centuries and stems from multiple cultures. There is a common thread of children placing a sock or clog or small box filled with something for Saint Nicolas or his reindeer. The advent of this holiday tradition in America goes back to the early 1800s. Many historians believe that the Dutch introduced this tradition to America as well. The famed “A Visit From Saint Nicolas” all but enshrined this into a yearly tradition. Now, few children lay their heads down on Christmas Eve night before ensuring that the reindeer have a treat, and something yummy is left behind for good ole Saint Nick.
This has not changed much down through time, but the Christmas stockings themselves sure have. No longer are children using mom’s hosiery items or their own socks with holes in them. Today they have an assortment to choose from, particularly when searching the internet. 
There are the traditional red socks with a white plush top, and then there are unique and even silly ones to choose from. If they have a favorite movie character, there is sure to be a sock with the character on it. Some popular stockings are for a baby’s first Christmas and newlyweds. Others are for cats and dogs, and sports fans too.
As for variety, these holiday decorations range in sizes and colors. It may be a life-sized red sock with white trim, or a miniature purple sock with pink polka dots and lime green trim. It really comes down to one’s personal preferences and what will coordinate with their existing décor.
