|
The weather is starting to chill and it is time to take out the tights and ready your fine hosiery for holiday parties!
Honestly, woman have always had a fascination with the sheer delights that cover our gams -- Since the days of Queen Elizabeth (who received her first pair of silk stockings in 1589) to the hosiery craze of the 1940's.
Imagine this -- In 1940 when the first pair of nylons went on sale, four million sold out in four days! Sadly, production was halted for the war effort in 1945. But after the war, Macy's in New York sold out 50,000 pairs in six hours. It would be 1948 before production returned to normal and many years later that pantyhose were introduced.
Plus Size Tights and Hosiery Sizing
Silky Sheer Lace Top Stockings
HipsandCurves.com |
Size is determined by height and weight ranges within charts on the hosiery package. Industry standards vary according to manufacturer. Some charts use a lettering system, A, B, C, D, E, F and others may use Q/Petite, 1 - 6x and sometimes 1, 2, 3. So, it's important to refer to the package and brand you are buying for the appropriate size.
Find your weight and height on the chart. If you are in the upper range of your size, it's probably best to try the larger size. Be careful when going to the larger size that it is not too tall for you since you might find yourself pulling the waist up close to your bust. And this could lead to the dreaded 'baggy ankles, adjust them every 2 minutes' syndrome!
If too short or small, you will also max out the fabric causing weakness and vulnerability to snagging and holes as well as restricting your movement. |
The Best Way to Put on Tights and Hosiery
- Make sure that your hands, fingernails and toenails are smooth. You might want to take off jewelry. For fine hosiery, you may want to use a hosiery glove.
- Roll one leg at a time from waist to toe.
- Place your toes into the leg and pull up gently to the knee and place the other leg through to the knee.
- Then pull one leg at a time pulling to the crotch, then the waist.
- Pull them off gently as well turning them right side out.
Caring for Tights and Hosiery
Wash them in mild detergent especially for delicates, roll them in a towel and dry flat on the towel. Don't use chlorine as it will discolor and break down the fibers. If you decide to use the washing machine, place hosiery in a lingerie bag or pillowcase. As is true of all delicates, never dry in the dryer!
Purchasing Plus Size Tights and Hosiery
There are many interesting websites to purchase plus size hosiery. One of particular interest to me is StockinGirl.com. There are beautiful garments, hosiery, accessories to choose and great information. Check out thigh highs here with extra wide lace. Another "user friendly" website is BareNecessities.com . Every pair that appears is available in plus.
Also check out:
Plus size tights and hosiery fit options are better than ever and costs are anywhere from $.99 to $24.99 depending on the label.
And ladies, a word from the wise -- please, be honest when determining your size, height and weight! You can fib on your driver's license and with your friends but not on your hosiery size!
Note: Some of the above information was adapted from The Sheer Facts about Hosiery, developed by the National Association of Hosiery Manufacturers (NAHM).
|
