From the numerous types of hosiery available for women, nylon stockings stand out, being elegant, smooth and durable. Introduced in 1935, these stockings replaced silk stockings and set a new trend in women's fashion. Nylon stockings were an instant hit when they were first launched, and their popularity only grew over the years. Let us delve into the history of nylon stockings and explore why they continue to be the reigning queen of hosiery.
The Inception and Launch of Nylon Stockings
In the early 1930s, the world witnessed a shortage of raw materials such as silk and cotton due to the great depression. This gave American chemical company DuPont a chance to create a synthetic substitute that would replace silk stockings. In 1935, DuPont introduced nylon stockings at the New York World Fair, which were an instant hit. Women were impressed with the durability and affordability of the new material. Within a month, four million pairs of nylon stockings were sold, and the trend only continued to grow in the coming years.
The Rise of Nylon Stockings in Pop Culture
During the Second World War, nylon stockings were in such high demand that the government decided to use nylon for war purposes, such as for making parachutes and ropes. Nylon stockings were only available in limited quantities during this time, leading to a trend called \"nylon riots\" where women would fight to get their hands on these stockings. This surge in demand popularised the trend of women drawing a line down the back of their legs to imitate the appearance of stockings. This trend was later replaced by seam-free stockings, and soon women were preferring seamless and coloured stockings over traditional nude-coloured ones.
Nylon Stockings – The Timeless Trend
In the present day, despite the availability of other hosiery options, nylon stockings continue to be a popular choice of women. Many women are fans of the smooth and silky texture of nylon as well as its affordable price range. Another reason for its versatility is the wide range of deniers the stockings are available in – from ultra-sheer to opaque. Nylon stockings have also seen various modifications over the years; they have come with a garter belt to keep them in place and have evolved from traditional nude colour to a range of bold, vibrant colours. Companies have also launched nylon stockings with patterns and glitter to add an extra touch of glamour.
To conclude, nylon stockings have stood the test of time and maintained their fashion quotient since their launch. They have been through wars, government restrictions, and countless fashion trends but remained a timeless choice for women. The affordability, durability, and wide range of options make nylon stockings a top choice for fashionistas worldwide.
