The Invention and History of Stockings and Tights

Tights and stockings are an essential part of every woman's wardrobe. Sheer natural toned tights/pantyhose complement and finish off the perfect office outfit. Sexy stockings spruce up a special dress for a sensual date, and patterned opaques keep you looking funky and stylish without freezing on a winter day!

But tights and stockings were not always as comfortable or accessible as they are today. Hosiery has evolved throughout the ages, and demand and fashion have dictated style, colour and material. As strange as it may seem now, tights and stockings actually originated from men's clothing. Stockings or Hose became widely available in the 16th century with the invention of the knitting machine. They were most commonly made from wool, luxurious versions were available in silk or cotton, and they were worn by men under breeches. It was not until the early 20th century, that women's fashion changed and it became socially acceptable for women to show their legs.

The invention of Nylon in 1939 revolutionised women's undergarments. As tights were not yet invented, stockings were the garment of choice and industrial advances made them widely available, albeit not during the war. Lycra had not yet been added to stockings so there was not much 'give' to them and they did not stretch. As such, they were available in what was known as 'Fully fashioned', meaning different sizes, to follow the shape of the leg.

By the early 60's Lycra was added to stockings, making them more comfortable and a better fit for the wearer. It was also at this time that in California, Allan Gant Senior developed the first 'tights'. Known as 'pantyhose', as derived from the American 'panties' - a term used for knickers, referring to the opaque section at the top, and 'hose' to refer to the stockings. These 'pantyhose', were literally stockings and knickers sewn together. They were designed to eliminate the need for several different layers of undergarments. Pantyhose production was perfected by the mid sixties, and the product became 'seamless'. This coincided with the rise of the mini skirt. Allowing women were to wear tights, that covered the leg, as a alternative to stockings, which would have been exposed under the short skirt fashion of the times. Tights became the new must have product and the sale of stockings dramatically declined.

In the UK, 'tights' is used as a generic name regardless of weight/texture/denier of the material. However, in America the term 'pantyhose' is used to distinguish tights of a 'lighter' denier. Pantyhose refers to tights which are either seamless waist to toe, or have a opaque section at the top. They are usually available in 'nude' or 'natural' shades. Americans use the term 'tights' to refer to thicker, opaque garments, including those of the woolen variety.

Advances in technology and ever changing trends in fashion, have seen a vast array of tights available on the market. Fishnet, peep toe, thigh slimming, tummy controlling and maternity tights are all available, and they can be purchased in every conceivable colour. There has never been a better time in history to wear or purchased the perfect pair of tights!