For the month of Sock-tober, if you buy two of my sock patterns, you can get a third of your choice for free!

I’ve loved historical romance novels ever since I picked up my first Johanna Lindsey book (a few years too young if we’re being honest) and when I was designing these socks, there was something about the delicate lacework and frilly ruffle that made me think of candlelit Mayfair ballrooms, carriage rides on cobblestone streets, and swoon-inducing kisses with rakish dukes.

That said, they will look just as charming with jeans and a pair of sneakers as they would with a ballgown and heeled slippers and are the perfect way to add a touch of romance to your sock drawer.

If you’re looking for something to read/listen to while you knit, the pattern includes a list of books that I think pair particularly well with this pattern for maximum escapism.

The Courtship Socks are knit toe-up with a gusset, German short rows and heel flap construction. They feature a lacework pattern that looks complex, but is easy to memorize and makes the socks knit up super quick. Because of some more advanced techniques (magic loop, double decreases, German short rows) I recommend this pattern for intermediate level knitters, but there are links included to tutorials for each technique that should help out any adventurous beginners too.

Sizes:
Small - 16.5cm/6.5in
Medium - 19cm/7.5in
Large - 21.5/8.5in
This measurement refers to the circumference of the sock un-stretched. To figure out which size to knit, measure around the ball of your foot at the widest part. Most people like their socks to fit a little snug so if you’re between sizes, I recommend knitting the smaller size, especially because the lace will stretch a few centimeters. The size only refers to the width as the length can be customized, though this may affect the amount of yarn you use.

Gauge:
36 stitches x 42 rows per 10cm/4in on 2.25mm needles in stockinette, or size required to meet gauge.

Yarn Requirement
4-Ply/fingering weight – 45 (60, 75 grams or 200 (230, 260) meters
The white socks are size medium, knitted in Lang Yarns Jawoll (75% Wool 25% Nylon, 210m (230yds) per 50g) in color 094.
The brown socks are size large, knitted in John Arbon Textiles Exmoor Sock (60% Exmoor Blueface / 20% Corriedale / 10% Zwartbles / 10% Nylon, 200m/218yds per 50g) in color Bibble Bug.

Needles:
The pattern is written using the magic loop method, but can be worked using double pointed needles or small (23cm/9in) circulars, depending on your preference. You’ll need 2.25mm needles, or size required to meet gauge, as well as 2mm, or one size smaller, needles for the cuff.

Notions:
Tapestry needle
Stitch markers (2 for marking the heel, 2 more if using 23cm/9inch circular needles.
Scissors
Sock blockers (optional)