Stockings & Hosiery

Choosing the right stockings

Understanding denier

Denier is the weight of the yarn used to knit a stocking — the lower the number, the finer and sheerer the fabric. At 10, the leg is almost invisible through the fabric, delicate and barely-there. At 20, it's still sheer but slightly more substantial and less prone to runs. Anything above 40 starts to feel like everyday opaque tights.

For bedroom wear, 10 to 20 is the right territory. The lower end looks stunning but snags instantly — a nail, a rough surface, a piece of jewellery is all it takes. If the occasion calls for reliability as much as sheerness, the higher end of that range is the smarter pick.

Fishnet sits outside this scale entirely. It's an open weave — the leg shows through large gaps in the mesh. Bold and graphic, it suits simpler lingerie above so the legwear can be the focal point.

Stay-ups or a suspender belt

The most practical decision before buying. Stay-up stockings have a silicone-lined band at the top that grips the thigh — no belt or clips needed. They work well for shorter occasions and are the easiest starting point. The honest limitation is that silicone grip varies between body types, and over a long evening they can slide down.

A suspender belt holds the stockings in place with clips and straps — significantly more secure for longer wear. The belt becomes a visible part of the look, something that adds to it. If you already own a bra set with a built-in suspender belt, garter stockings are what you need to finish it — stay-ups won't use the clips.

Backseam

A backseam is a sewn line running the full length of the back of each leg from heel to thigh. It's a purely aesthetic detail with no effect on fit or comfort — it directs attention down the length of the leg and gives the stocking a vintage, dressed feel. It pairs particularly well with corsets and basques where the overall look is deliberate from top to bottom.

Pairing stockings with lingerie

Stockings work hardest when they're considered part of the look from the start. With a suspender belt, the stocking colour should match or closely complement it — a mismatch breaks the look. Sheer in a neutral shade works with almost any lingerie above. Fishnet and bold colours need a simpler base to sit against.

With a body or playsuit, stockings add length and definition to the lower half. With babydolls and chemises, they anchor the hem and stop the look floating. For patterned or PVC hosiery, fetish hosiery and underwear covers that separately.

Care — how to make them last

Sheer, low-denier stockings are fragile. They will run from a single snag — a rough nail, jewellery, or catching on a hard surface. Put them on carefully from the toe up and store them away from anything that can catch the fabric.

Hand wash in cool water with a small amount of gentle detergent, press excess water out gently, and dry flat away from direct heat. Never wring. Fishnet will survive a delicate machine cycle in a mesh laundry bag if needed, but sheer styles should always be hand washed.

Quality brands, plain packaging

Stockings and hosiery here come from Leg Avenue, Amorable by Rimba, and NO:XQSE — consistent sizing and quality fabrics across the range.

Orders leave in plain boxes with no external branding. Same-day dispatch on orders placed before 14:00 Monday to Friday. Free UK delivery over £50.