Hosiery: a look into the world of legwear
Do you love stockings and tights? Then you have come to the right place! Our hosiery glossary is your complete guide to the design, manufacture and wearing of stockings and tights. At Glamory, your plus size hosiery specialist, we show you how these often underrated accessories offer both practical and aesthetic benefits. Whether for everyday wear, for work or for special occasions, discover the variety and get inspired.
In the world of hosiery, there is an endless variety of styles, materials, patterns and colours. From classic nylon stockings to opaque tights, from knee-high socks to stay-ups, you will find the right thing for every occasion. Hosiery is not only an expression of your style, with support stockings it can also make long days more comfortable. Current trends focus on creative patterns and textures, from simple and elegant to playful. In this glossary, you will dive into the basics, trends and tips, perfect for fashion lovers like you.
Hosiery basics: from materials to care
Before we dive into the alphabet, here is a quick overview: hosiery has a long history, from hand-made socks to modern high-tech fibres. At Glamory, we focus on quality in plus sizes, with an emphasis on comfort and sustainability. Here you will learn terms that help you make the right choice, whether for everyday wear or special looks.
- A wide range of materials: From nylon for smoothness to cotton for breathability.
- Trends: Such as fishnet patterns or recycled fibres that are kinder to the environment.
- Care tips: Hand washing extends their life and helps prevent ladders.
- Support stockings: Gentle support for long days. Medical compression stockings are prescribed by a doctor.
- Styling ideas: Combine with your outfits for maximum effect.
This glossary is your way into the fascinating world of hosiery.
The hosiery glossary from A to Z
Now for the heart of it: our alphabetical hosiery glossary. Each term is briefly explained, with a link to Glamory products where it fits. That way, you can quickly find what you are looking for, and maybe discover something new for your wardrobe.
A – Ankle socks
Ankle socks are short socks that reach up to the ankle. Perfect for summer or sport, and available at Glamory in plus sizes for maximum comfort.
B – Band (top band)
The band holds the stocking in place. Stretchy and non-slip, like on our stay-ups.
C – Compression stockings and support stockings
Support stockings with gentle support (support class 1) give your legs a light boost, for example on long days of standing or sitting. For vein problems such as varicose veins, medical compression stockings from your doctor are the right choice. Glamory does not sell them.
D – Denier (the unit for the thickness of tights)
Denier measures thickness: low for sheer, high for opaque. Glamory offers 15 to 100 denier in plus sizes.
E – Easy-on techniques (how to put on hosiery)
Tips for putting them on easily, for example rolling instead of pulling to avoid damage. Great for close-fitting styles.
F – Fishnet tights
Fishnet tights for an edgy look. On trend for festivals, as in our collection.
G – Garment fibres (the materials hosiery is made from)
From nylon to wool: your choice affects comfort. Glamory uses yarns with recycled content.
H – Hosiery that stays up on its own (stay-ups)
With a silicone band for hold. An elegant alternative to tights, available in plus sizes.
I – In-seam (the seam on tights)
The seam running along the back for a better fit. At Glamory, it is flat and discreet.
J – Jacquard patterns (intricate knitted patterns)
Elaborate designs such as florals. Add style to your outfit: take a look at our patterned collection.
K – Knee-highs
Reaching up to the knee, for warmth and fashion. Perfect with skirts or shorts.
L – Ladders (damage in hosiery)
Runs caused by damage. Avoid them with careful handling and high-quality materials from Glamory.
M – Material care (looking after your hosiery)
Hand washing and air drying extend their life. Tips for different materials.
N – Nylon stockings
Light and glossy, made from nylon. Durable enough for everyday wear.
O – Over-the-knee socks
Reaching above the knee, for fashionable outfits. On trend and versatile.
P – Pantyhose (the American word for tights)
Stretchy tights for the legs and body. In every style at Glamory.
Q – Quality of hosiery
High-quality workmanship for durability. Our products are designed for comfort in plus sizes.
R – Rhombus patterns (knitted diamond patterns)
Geometric designs for a classic look.
S – Stocking design (how hosiery is designed)
Creative patterns for a unique look. Inspired by trends such as animal prints.
T – Texture (the surface structure of hosiery)
From smooth to ribbed, it affects how they feel and look.
U – Under-the-knee stockings
Cover the lower leg, often with garters for retro looks.
V – Vintage hosiery
Styles from past decades that are on trend again today.
W – Warm calf socks (socks that cover the calf)
Short socks for the calf, in lots of colours.
X – X-shaped patterns (creative patterns in hosiery)
Diagonal designs for added interest.
Y – Yarn (the yarn used to make hosiery)
The base yarn determines softness and stretch.
Z – Zone at the toe (reinforcement and design of the toe)
Reinforced against wear, in various styles.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ) about our hosiery glossary
What is the difference between stockings and tights?
Stockings only cover the legs, while tights also cover the body. You will find both in our range.
How do I choose the right denier?
Low (15–20) for sheer, high (40+) for opaque. Choose according to the season and the occasion.
Are stay-ups comfortable in plus sizes?
Yes, with a silicone band for a secure hold, and at Glamory specially optimised for curves.
How do I look after my hosiery properly?
Hand wash in lukewarm water and dry flat. Avoid the tumble dryer to keep them stretchy.
Curious to learn more? Dive deeper into our hosiery glossary and discover products that suit you! Take a look at our plus size tights.