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.

By ELLEN LEWIS

The Evolution Concept Trade Show, a unique exposé of lingerie merchandise, opens in NYC on August 2-August 4. Founded by Samantha Chang, Evolution welcomes 31 labels, 5 of which we feature here: Rosa Ribelle, Uwilla Warrior, Fogal, Yellamaris and Karma on the Rocks.  Launched in 2020 during the pandemic, Evolution has evolved from a digital alternative to a live showcase of independent entrepreneurs. An intimate trade show platform replete with luxury products, cozy amenities and comfortable conversations, it remains committed to a premiere buying experience. Visit them in NYC at Home Studios, located at 873 Broadway, between 17th and 18th Street. Or, see them in San Francisco 8/17-8/18 at the Hotel Kabuki.

Rosa Ribelle (also at top) was created from a love of vintage allure and a deep appreciation of lingerie. The pieces are designed for the modern woman who looks for versatile, long lasting items that elevate their wardrobe. They draw inspiration from vintage designs and choose fabrics that are luxurious but practical. These small collections are designed in New York and ethically crafted in Mexico. It’s all about everyday glamor.

Uwila Warrior was founded in Boston in 2017, Uwila Warrior is an intimates brand that puts problem solving first. Visible panty lines? Never. Pinching seams? Don’t know them. They believe underwear should be beautiful, comfortable, and invisible under clothing. Through thoughtful design details, high-quality materials, and inclusive sizing (XXS-3X), this female-founded brand makes underwear, bras, and loungewear that upgrade your first layer experience every day.

Fogal based in Paris and founded in  Zurich, Switzerland in 2021 is driven by a spirit of innovation and a fierce desire to develop Swiss quality products. The brand became a global player in the leg-wear industry, distinguishing itself by creating collections with innovative style and a myriad of color. With new ownership and an eye to the future, FOGAL remains true to its core values of Swiss craftsmanship with line extensions in athletic wear and swimwear in cutting edge fabrics.

Yellamaris, founded in 1992, has made a name for itself in the upmarket nightwear and loungewear categories. The special signature of the brand, which is still designed by the founder, is understated design and sophisticated cuts with precious details.  Made from outstanding luxury materials: pure cotton, fine linen, merino wool and high-quality micromodal, the collections are fresh, clean and classy. Yellamaris is run by the owner family and is one of the last German companies with its own production facilities.

Karma on the Rocks (also below) was founded in 2021 by Mona and Dania, two lifelong friends raised between the Far East, the Mediterranean, and Europe.The brand blends heritage with a modern, playful spirit. The collections embody a vital, creative energy through luxurious loungewear & resort wear from the finest cotton and silk. Designed in London and delicately made in India, they celebrate bold prints, fluid cuts, and meticulous details—an elegant yet playful ode to Japanese culture and art. The Summer 2026 collection channels fluidity and freshness: an impactful color palette, floral and geometric patterns, and a sun-drenched spirit inspired by the French Riviera. Karma… “On The Rocks”. It shakes up conventions and celebrates the art of living lightly.

See More Articles on Lingerie Briefs

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.

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.

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.