Nylon stocking sizes are crucially important. It is far too easy to buy pin up 1950s fashion nylons only to find you have bought the wrong size. Making all the right choices before you purchase will ensure you are not disappointed afterwards. The first thing you really need to know is that stocking nylon is not the same as the nylon you would find on other garments, like panties or a slip. Stocking nylon is 100% pure nylon in true vintage stockings and has no stretch properties whatsoever and, as such, can be quite uncomfortable if you get the size wrong.
If you are intending to buy authentic vintage nylon stockings it is important to know more about the term ‘Fully Fashioned’ (FF) and what that actually means. Here are some fully fashioned facts:
- A lot of people think that ‘Fully Fashioned’ just refers to the seam that is visible at the back of each leg. It actually doesn’t. Having a seam on your stockings is just where the flat-knit ‘fully fashioned’ nylon fabric was joined at the back. To be truly authentic, that seam must be a join – some seams are just sewn-in ‘fake’ mock seams. So, to think that the only stockings that can be called ‘fully fashioned’ are those with a seam and contrasting heel is a myth. Seamless stockings can be fully fashioned too.
- ‘Fully Fashioned’ actually refers to the natural shape of the leg. Let me explain. Because true, authentic pure nylon stockings have no stretch in them at all, manufacturers had to make them in the exact shape of the leg so that they fit snugly and didn’t ‘sag’ in places. They were perfectly ‘fashioned‘ to the shape of the leg so that they fit neatly around all parts of the leg. They had to, remember. If they didn’t, the nylon fabric in some areas would sag while in others they would be too tight. The stocking should fit neatly around the whole of your leg without sagging or creasing, although a subtle tiny ripple of looseness at the arch of the foot is actually considered fashionably chic in some quarters.
- With Fully Fashioned (FF) nylon stockings, leg length is actually more important than foot size when it comes to comfort while wearing. One of the things you must do first of all is to know your leg length because good quality nylon stockings come in different leg lengths, eg: size 10 short; size 10 medium; size 10 long, etc.
- The alternative to Fully Fashioned seamed stockings are seamless ‘Regular’ stockings that are knitted over cone-shaped moulds. As I said, these don’t have seams because they don’t need seams as they are knitted as a big conical ‘tube’ – although a manufacturer could add a ‘mock’ seam just for effect. This method of manufacture is slightly more forgiving when it comes to sizing, especially since in later years they started adding stretchy Lycra to the nylon mix. Because these circular spun stockings have a kind of ‘one shape fits all’ idea they will never fit and look as good as vintage fully fashioned nylons. Watch out for that, as they are not really truly authentic nylons in the vintage sense.
Are Nylon Stockings Fun and Comfortable to Wear?
Yes, nylon stockings can be both fun and comfortable to wear. Their sleek look goes well with any outfit, while their soft nylon fabric helps keep you feeling comfortable throughout the day. Yes, nylon stockings can be both fun and comfortable to wear. Their sleek look goes well with any outfit, while their soft fabric helps keep you feeling comfortable throughout the day. With sheer, lightweight designs and a range of fashionable colors, there’s no denying that nylon stockings are a great wardrobe addition. Nylon stockings have been a fashion staple for decades, as they not only offer a sleek and stylish look, but are also fun and comfortable to wear. Nylon stockings are easy to care for, maintain their color over time, and make the perfect addition to any outfit!
The Denier scale is an important factor for those wanting stockings. It’s a French term used to measure the thickness of the thread, and refers to one gram for every nine thousand metres. Sheer stockings or tights have a denier count of 7, which is so light that it almost disappears on the leg. For those after more durability, stockings over 20-denier are opaque; whereas those between 10-20 are still transparent whilst being more resistant. For a balance between wearability and sexiness, 15-denier is the most popular option.
Seamed or Seamless Stockings – What’s Best? The Pros and Cons of Seamed vs. Seamless Stockings.
Whether you choose seamed or seamless stockings depends heavily on personal preference. Seamed stockings are often thought to be of higher quality and more durable, while seamless stockings tend to fit better and provide a smoother look under clothing. Ultimately, it comes down to individual choice. Seamed stockings offer a more traditional, vintage look, but seamless stockings are becoming increasingly popular for their sleek and modern look. The choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference, as both kinds of stockings can provide comfort and style.
How to buy a vintage slip.
