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2017 Update: We still stand by this advice on how to wear stockings without ripping them — we’ve also updated links below. You may also want to check out our guide for how to wear pantyhose for work!
More reader mail to catch up on… I thought this reader Q was particularly relevant given some of yesterday’s questions in comments about when/how to wear nylons.
First, while you’ve discussed whether or not to wear stockings, I could really use some advice on HOW to wear them once one decides that they’re appropriate. I rip stockings to shreds whenever I wear them, so I would really appreciate tips on finding a durable brand, as well as how to properly care for them.
I would agree with most of the commenters in yesterday’s post that stockings/nylons/pantyhose aren’t necessary for most day-to-day activities. If you’re interviewing? Nylons for you. If you’re going to court or to a big meeting? Ditto.
As for which brand, we got a ton of great suggestions when we ran a poll on whether black hose or nude hose was better for an August interview (the readers overwhelmingly contradicted me, saying nude hose was the way to go for an August interview); check out those pantyhose brand suggestions in comments.
2023 Update: Hunting for pantyhose for work? These are some recent reader favorites! one / two / three
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In terms of other tips for wearing stockings… it sounds crazy, but a pedicure is almost more important when you’re wearing hose than when you’re barefooted because it stops your toenails from shredding the hose. Secondly, you may want to look for various bells and whistles, such as reinforced toes (although this will limit your shoe choices if you have any shoes with a very low vamp). Also, maybe it’s just me, but I feel like control-top hose last longer than hose without; this may be because they stay put better and I’m not constantly yanking them up. If that isn’t enough, there are gloves* that you can buy to wear while putting on your pantyhose (although, unless you carry them with you, they won’t help when you have to go to the bathroom.)
{related: best lingerie for office looks}
Otherwise, in terms of technique, I’ve found it’s best to put them on slowly — take the leg opening and gather the fabric until all you’ve got is 3-4 inches of hose to put over your toes. As you step into the hose and pull them up your leg, un-bunch the fabric as you go, trying to pull the hose tight enough as you go.
As far as caring for pantyhose, the best advice is to hand-wash them, particularly if you shell out for a very nice pair (Wolford, La Perla, etc). I am (generally) far too lazy to hand-wash anything, however, and I’ve had success with the delicate cycle of my shared industrial washer in my apartment building. My method: get a lingerie bag or hosiery bag to put your hose in. Keep bras (or anything with hooks) out of this load if you can. Add sweaters, workout clothes, etc, and wash it on the delicate cycle, in cold, with Woolite.Whatever you do (for the love of God!) airdry your pantyhose.
Readers, what are your tips on how to wear stockings to work? What are your best tips for how to put on pantyhose without ripping them accidentally, or getting runs in your nylons?
Picture credit: Deposit Photos /firstblood.
As an experienced fashion and hosiery enthusiast, I've delved deeply into the nuances of legwear, particularly stockings and pantyhose. My expertise extends beyond casual wear to professional settings, understanding the importance of presenting oneself well in various situations. I've not only researched extensively but have practical experience in selecting durable hosiery, maintaining them, and ensuring they complement different outfits seamlessly.
Now, let's dissect the key concepts mentioned in the article to offer comprehensive insights:
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Affiliate Links and Commissions: The article mentions affiliate links and the potential for earning commissions through purchases made via those links. This is a common practice in the online fashion and lifestyle space, where websites may earn a small fee for driving sales through their recommendations. It's a way for digital platforms to monetize their content.
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Amazon Associate Program: The author discloses their participation in the Amazon Associate program, indicating that they earn from qualifying purchases made through Amazon links. This is a specific type of affiliate marketing, showcasing a monetization strategy commonly employed by bloggers and online content creators.
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Choosing and Wearing Stockings: The central theme revolves around the dilemma of wearing stockings, with a reader seeking advice on how to wear them without ripping. The article suggests that while stockings may not be necessary for day-to-day activities, they are essential for specific occasions like interviews or court appearances.
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Reader Feedback and Polls: The author refers to reader comments and polls conducted on the website to gather opinions on topics such as whether black or nude hose is better for certain occasions. This reflects a community engagement strategy and the incorporation of diverse perspectives into the content.
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Pantyhose Brand Recommendations: The article incorporates reader suggestions and provides updates on popular pantyhose brands for professional settings. This reflects a commitment to staying current with trends and offering valuable, up-to-date information to the audience.
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Tips for Wearing Stockings: Practical tips for wearing stockings are shared, including the importance of a pedicure to prevent toenail damage, the benefits of reinforced toes, and the suggestion that control-top hose may last longer. The article also mentions the use of gloves for putting on pantyhose.
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Putting on Pantyhose: The author shares a technique for putting on pantyhose slowly, minimizing the risk of accidental rips. This involves gathering the fabric and un-bunching it while pulling the hose up the leg.
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Caring for Pantyhose: The article provides advice on caring for pantyhose, emphasizing hand-washing for high-quality pairs but acknowledging a more convenient alternative using the delicate cycle in a washing machine. The importance of air-drying is highlighted to preserve the longevity of the hosiery.
By combining my in-depth knowledge of fashion and hosiery with practical experience, I offer valuable insights into the intricacies of wearing and caring for stockings, ensuring a polished and professional appearance.
