Sometimes you just have some really elegant yarn which deserves a really elegant pattern.

The mock rib and cables featured in this pattern make these top-down socks either extraordinarily pretty or stately and sophisticated – it all depends on the yarn you choose. And because it makes me smile, the little cable runs all the way down the back of the heel (yay).

Knit the legs at full-length for a warm winter pair or do an ankle-sock version for spring. Either way they are the perfect foot accessory (is that a thing?) for a delicious afternoon tea somewhere fancy (or just in your living room).

YARN:

• Quantities for S (M, L) socks: 80g/320m (90g/360m, 100g/400m) fingering weight sock yarn

NEEDLES AND NOTIONS:

• 2mm (US size 0) needles, or needle size required to achieve pattern gauge
• 2.25mm (US size 1) needle, or one or two sizes larger than main needles (OPTIONAL – for a loose cast-on)
• 5 x stitch markers
• Tapestry needle

GAUGE AND SIZING:

• Gauge = 9 stitches and 12 rows per inch (36st/48 rows = 4 inches/10cm) over stocking stitch using 2mm (US 0) needles.
• Your gauge might vary, please do a gauge swatch to be sure.
• Leg and foot length are adjustable within this pattern.

Pattern shows instructions for S, M and L socks, to fit feet with the following measurements:

• S (small) = 8 inches/20.5cm around largest foot circumference
• M (medium) = 9 inches/23cm around largest foot circumference
• L (large) = 10 inches/25.5cm around largest foot circumference