With boots 8'-10" I just wear boot socks myself. I tried kilt hose but didn't personally like it. Pulled up they seemed a little "off" somehow, and pushed down the extra bulk reminded me of those leg-warmers my sisters wore in the 80's. With short hiking boots, 6" or less, I think the hose work alright. Just no flashes. I either use just the elastic from my flashes or some garter ties in a color that doesn't stand out(but usually the elastic).

Some guys look perfectly fine with hose pulled up and tall-ish boots. I'm just not big on it. Of course, freezing legs and shivering in the cold would look sillier than any combination of boots, socks, hose, flashes and garters. Just my $.02USD.