Welt
The welt is the reinforced band at the top of stockings. It's the thicker, stronger section that garter clips attach to (on traditional stockings) or that contains the silicone grip (on hold-ups). The welt determines both durability and aesthetics of the stocking top.
Purpose of the Welt
- Attachment point: Where garter clips grip the fabric
- Durability: Reinforced to withstand tension and repeated use
- Stability: Prevents the stocking from stretching out at the top
- Grip surface: On hold-ups, contains silicone strips
- Aesthetics: Decorative element, often visible by design
Types of Welts
By Width
| Type | Width | Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Narrow welt | ½-1 inch | Subtle, less visible, lighter |
| Standard welt | 1-2 inches | Most common, good grip point |
| Wide welt | 2-4 inches | More grip, better stay-up, decorative |
| Deep welt | 4+ inches | Maximum coverage, often on hold-ups |
By Style
- Plain welt: Solid color, no decoration—practical and discreet
- Lace welt: Decorative lace band, elegant appearance
- Shadow welt: Slightly darker than leg section, subtle distinction
- Contrast welt: Different color from leg (black welt on nude stocking)
- Patterned welt: Geometric, floral, or other designs
Welt Construction
Welts are constructed differently than the leg portion:
- Heavier denier: Thicker yarn for strength
- Tighter knit: Denser weave resists stretching
- Doubled fabric: Often folded or layered
- Reinforced edges: Sewn or fused to prevent fraying
Welt and Garter Attachment
For stockings worn with garter belts, the welt is crucial:
- Clip placement: Garter clips should grip the welt, not the sheer leg
- Even tension: Front and back clips should pull evenly on the welt
- Welt strength: Quality welts don't tear from garter tension
Cheap stockings often have weak welts that tear or stretch permanently from garter use.
Welt on Hold-Ups
On hold-ups, the welt serves a different purpose:
- Silicone housing: Contains the silicone grip strips
- Weight distribution: Wider welt = more grip = better stay-up
- Comfort: Wide welts with good silicone don't dig in
Choosing Welt Style
| Situation | Best Welt |
|---|---|
| Under tight skirts | Plain, narrow, nude color |
| Visible with short skirts | Decorative lace, wide band |
| Garter belt wear | Standard or wide, reinforced |
| All-day hold-up wear | Wide band with full silicone backing |
| Vintage/retro look | Deep shadow welt, contrast color |
Quality Indicator
The welt is often where you can spot quality differences. A well-made stocking has a smooth, even welt with no loose threads, while cheap stockings often have uneven, thin welts that fray quickly.