We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs.
Reading up on Domino’s shopping guides is like having your own personal product concierge. We do the tedious part—deep-dive research, hands-on testing, and tapping experts for advice—so all you have to do is hit “add to cart.” That’s why we call them Simply the Best.
There are many stocking stuffer strategies: Do you fill yours with cheap and cheerful necessities (hello, tortoise toothbrush)? Surprise and delight with some fancy chocolates or candy? Go all in on one small but extra-special splurge? One thing you need no matter what, however, is the stocking itself. Whether you’re starting fresh or recently welcomed a new member to the family, you can count on these picks—updated for 2025—to look just as good as whatever you decide to put inside them come Christmas Eve. Our 36 favorites range from traditional (plaids! solids!) to playful (rainbow brights, pattern-mixing, and a lot of bows).
Our 2025 Favorites
- Best solid: Madly Wish Color-Blocked Linen Stocking
- Best patchwork: Damson Madder Patchwork Bow Christmas Stocking
- Best plaid & gingham: Heather Taylor Home Annabelle Plaid Ruffle Stocking
- Best patterned: Liberty Ianthe Sparkle Cotton Christmas Stocking
- Best striped: Hawkins New York Essential Striped Stocking
- Best bow-adorned: Valentina Wildly Handmade Canvas Stocking With Bows
- Best abstract: Quiet Goods Green Quilted Stocking With Appliqué Details No.2
The Best Solid Stockings
Solid hues are far from boring when you throw color-blocking, embroidery, or cuddly faux fur into the mix.
The Best Patchwork Stockings
Designs as heirloom-worthy as grandma’s quilt—in fact, some of these are handmade.
The Best Plaid (and Gingham) Stockings
You’ll spot the season’s signature pattern in classic red and green, of course, but we love the addition of dramatically brighter—or moodier—hues for a modern twist.
The Best Patterned Stockings
Floral and geo prints might not be standard Christmas fare, but their spunkiness is a nice reminder that spring will eventually come on those especially dark winter days.
The Best Striped Stockings
The timeless pattern gets a seasonal glow-up with baubles, sherpa, and even a mini ruffled pocket. Or keep it simple with a wide, tonal take.
The Best Bow-Adorned Stockings
Bows aren’t just for presents under the tree. These on-trend stockings boast the accent in all forms, from mini ribbons to one big felt flourish.
The Best Abstract Stockings
Srong shapes and squiggles offer a visual break from all the ethereal decorations that typically come with the holidays.
How We Chose These Products
Every year, our editors assess the fresh crop of Christmas stockings and decide which are worth investing in. We look for quality materials and construction, as well as durability. We will always appreciate a classic plaid, but we also look for subtle (and not-so-subtle) twists on tradition.
Our Shopping Checklist
Design
Your stocking should feel, above all else, like a reflection of you and your family. But regardless of your choice, the pros agree that nothing beats a custom touch, whether it be a monogram or the entire design. Kate Towill of South Carolina–based studio Basic Projects likes “an old-school, personalized stocking,” while Boston designer David Ekezian uses stockings handmade by a family friend in his celebrations.
Materials
Here are a few of the most popular options:
- Shearling, faux fur, and sherpa. Like the lining of Santa’s boots, they’re soft to the touch, and their typically neutral palette ensures they’ll go with pretty much any Christmas decor.
- Chunky wool. Like your favorite cable-knit sweater, it’s an instant classic.
- Cotton. Usually the base for stockings with funkier details or patterns. It’s also often more affordable.
- Velvet. A nostalgic choice that’s especially festive when paired with sparkly accents.
Sizing
Most stockings are between 19 and 25 inches long and about 7 inches wide.
Ask Domino
Embroidered stockings are always in style (and a handful of our picks, above, offer personalization for an added cost), but it can be fun to have kids help by using glitter glue or iron-on letters.
Sketch out the lettering in pencil first, and embrace a little imperfection—that’s part of the charm of handmade decorations.