stocking
Quick Summary
Stockings are close-fitting coverings for the foot and leg, often worn inside shoes. Historically, people wrapped their feet and legs in materials like leather or cloth strips. Knit socks have been found in ancient tombs, and hand-knit stockings evolved into their modern form by the 17th century.1
The invention of the knitting machine by William Lee revolutionized stocking production, though initially, his coarser stockings were rejected by Queen Elizabeth I in favor of finer silk imports. Modern machines still incorporate principles from Lee's original design.1
Stockings can be made in full-fashioned (shaped by hand manipulation) or seamless (knitted on circular machines) styles. The introduction of nylon in the 1940s significantly impacted materials, largely replacing silk and rayon due to its thermoplastic properties that allowed for better shaping. The sheerness and weight of stockings depend on yarn size and machine gauge.1
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dressColonial AmericaStockings were either knitted or cut from woven cloth and sewn to fit the leg. They were attached to menās breeches by points, or strings, which were also used to secure other garments; later, sashlike garters replaced points. Both men and women wore stout leatherā¦
Read MoreStockings were either knitted or cut from woven cloth and sewn to fit the leg. They were attached to menās breeches by points, or strings, which were also used to secure other garments; later, sashlike garters replaced points. Both men and women wore stout leatherā¦
Read More- dressThe early 20th century
With the short skirts, flesh-coloured stockings were introduced, made from expensive silk or more practical lisle or wool (other colours were also worn). Corsets disappeared to be replaced by brassieres and elasticized girdles. Probably the most revolutionary change was in the coiffure. Hair was first cut shorter by trendsetters evenā¦
Read MoreWith the short skirts, flesh-coloured stockings were introduced, made from expensive silk or more practical lisle or wool (other colours were also worn). Corsets disappeared to be replaced by brassieres and elasticized girdles. Probably the most revolutionary change was in the coiffure. Hair was first cut shorter by trendsetters evenā¦
Read More