How to Choose Stockings

Choosing the right stockings involves several factors: how you'll wear them (with garters or self-supporting), the occasion, the look you want, and practical considerations like durability. This guide covers everything you need to know.

First Decision: Hold-Up Method

Stockings are held up in two main ways:

With Garter Belt/Suspenders

• Classic look: Traditional elegant styling
• More secure: Won't slip if fitted properly
• Lingerie appeal: Romantic, sexy aesthetic
• Any stocking works: Compatible with most styles
• Requires extra garment: Need garter belt

Best for: Special occasions, lingerie, vintage styling, secure all-day wear.

Hold-Ups (Stay-Ups)

• Self-supporting: Silicone band grips thigh
• Convenient: No extra garment needed
• Invisible: Nothing shows under tight clothes
• Modern: Most practical for everyday
• Can slip: Silicone may not grip all skin types

Best for: Everyday wear, convenience, tight clothing, practical use.

See our hold-ups guide for detailed advice.

Choose Your Denier

Denier determines sheerness and durability:

See our complete denier guide.

Choose Your Style

Plain Stockings

• Seamless: Modern, clean look
• Plain welt: Simple top band
• Most versatile: Works for any occasion

Lace Top

• Decorative band: Lace pattern at top
• Lingerie look: More feminine/romantic
• Popular for: Special occasions, dates

Seamed Stockings

• Back seam: Classic vintage look
• Leg-lengthening: Creates visual line down leg
• Requires attention: Must keep seams straight
• Heritage style: Pre-1960s aesthetic

Cuban Heel

• Reinforced heel: Darker square/rectangle
• Vintage: 1950s glamour
• Usually seamed: Complete retro look

Fishnet

• Open weave: Diamond pattern
• Fashion/costume: Bold statement
• Various sizes: Small net to large holes

Choose Your Color

Nude/Skin Tones

For a bare-leg look:

• Match your skin: Closest match looks natural
• Slightly darker: Creates subtle glow
• Test in daylight: Store lighting misleads

Black

• Classic: Works with most outfits
• Evening: Standard for formal events
• Slimming: Creates longer leg line

Other Colors

• White: Bridal, costume, fashion
• Red: Dramatic, lingerie
• Navy/Grey: Professional alternatives to black

Consider the Occasion

Size and Fit

Getting the Right Size

• Check size chart: Varies by brand
• Height matters: For length
• Weight matters: For stretch capacity
• Leg shape: Athletic legs may need larger size

Signs of Wrong Size

• Too small: Welt doesn't reach thigh, fabric stretched thin
• Too big: Saggy at ankle, excess fabric at thigh

Quality Indicators

How to spot good stockings:

• Even knit: No thin spots or irregularities
• Finished welt: Clean edge, not fraying
• Reinforced areas: Toe and heel should be sturdy
• Good packaging: Quality brands pack carefully

Budget Considerations

Budget Stockings ($5-15)

• Adequate for occasional wear
• May not last as long
• Good for trying new styles

Mid-Range ($15-30)

• Better construction and durability
• More reliable sizing
• Sweet spot for most wearers

Premium ($30+)

• Finest materials and construction
• Best sheerness and feel
• Worth it for special occasions

Brand Recommendations

• Budget: Pretty Polly, Charnos
• Mid-range: Wolford (basics), Falke, Cervin
• Premium: Wolford, La Perla
• Vintage style: What Katie Did, Gio, Secrets in Lace