Rocking Stockings

Surprise Santa with a sense of style.After 33 years as a high school business teacher, Pam Chaffee thought it was time to put down the books. Three years ago she gave up computer software for soft fabrics, feathers and felt.

The Newmarket resident now has a cottage industry making funky Christmas stockings and wine bags from her home.

The idea for the high-heeled stocking came when she saw a similar product and thought, “I could do better.” Now, with her own patterns, she mixes and matches wild fabrics, ostrich feathers, glitzy trims, funky buttons and antique jewelry for a sexy stocking that will surely put a twinkle in Santa’s eye.

The first round of product went to friends and family, and last year she started selling them around town. Ho-Ho Heels can be found at the Newmarket Winter Market at the Old Stone Church Dec. 19 and on display at Riverworks Restaurant, also in Newmarket. Prices range from $50 to $60 and more for custom designs. She recently created a Fourth of July Christmas stocking to salute a client’s birthday.

In the near future Chaffee also plans to make custom bridal stockings to match the lace and satin of wedding gowns and bridesmaids’ dresses.

— Susan Laughlin