Silk Hosiery
Silk was the premier luxury material for stockings before nylon was invented in 1938.
History
- Used for centuries
- Status symbol of the wealthy
- Imported from Asia (expensive)
- Dominated until 1940
- Largely replaced by nylon
Characteristics
Advantages
- Natural fiber
- Luxurious feel
- Beautiful sheen
- Breathable
- Temperature regulating
Disadvantages
- Very expensive
- Delicate, prone to runs
- Difficult to care for
- Not very elastic
Silk vs. Nylon
| Property | Silk | Nylon |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Very high | Affordable |
| Durability | Fragile | Stronger |
| Feel | Luxurious | Good |
| Elasticity | Low | High |
Modern Silk Hosiery
- Still produced by luxury brands
- Very expensive
- Collector's items
- Special occasion only
- Often silk blends
Cultural Significance
- "Silk stockings" became metaphor for luxury
- Associated with glamour era
- WWII shortage made nylons desirable