How to Wear Hold-Ups

Hold-ups (also called stay-ups or self-supporting stockings) use silicone bands to grip your thighs without a garter belt. They're convenient and modern, but require the right technique to stay in place all day.

How Hold-Ups Work

The science behind stay-up stockings:

• Silicone bands: Sticky strips inside the welt
• Skin grip: Silicone adheres to clean, dry skin
• No garters needed: Self-supporting design
• Invisible: Nothing shows under clothes

Types of Silicone Bands

Single Band

• One strip of silicone
• Most common, budget-friendly
• Works for most wearers
• May slip on some skin types

Double Band

• Two parallel silicone strips
• Better grip and security
• Distributes pressure
• Less likely to roll

Wide Band

• Broader silicone area
• Maximum grip
• Most comfortable
• Best for larger thighs

Getting Them to Stay Up

Skin Preparation

The key to hold-ups staying put:

• Clean skin: Wash thighs, remove any residue
• Completely dry: No moisture at all
• No lotion: Oils prevent silicone grip
• No powder: Creates barrier

Shower earlier in the day so skin is fully dry.

Positioning

• High enough: Place at widest part of thigh
• Same height: Both stockings at equal level
• Smooth band: No wrinkles or folds in silicone
• Press firmly: Ensure full contact with skin

The Sweet Spot

Finding the right position on your thigh:

• Too low: Falls down easily
• Too high: Uncomfortable, may roll
• Just right: Where thigh starts to taper

Why Hold-Ups Slip

Common Causes

• Lotion/oil on skin: #1 reason for slipping
• Sweating: Moisture breaks the seal
• Wrong size: Too tight stretches silicone thin
• Worn silicone: Old stockings lose grip
• Thigh shape: Very slim or very full thighs

Solutions

• Body adhesive: Spirit gum or fashion tape
• Antiperspirant: On thighs to reduce sweat
• Different brand: Silicone quality varies
• Garter belt: Accept defeat, go traditional

Hold-Ups vs. Garter Belt Stockings

Best Occasions for Hold-Ups

• Date nights: Convenient, sexy surprise
• Office wear: Practical under suits
• Weddings: Easy bathroom visits
• Under tight dresses: No bumps from garters
• Quick outfit changes: Fast on and off

When to Avoid Hold-Ups

• Very hot weather: Sweat breaks the seal
• Dancing/active events: Movement causes slipping
• All-day wear: May need readjustment
• If they've never worked for you: Some skin types just don't grip

Caring for Hold-Ups

Washing

• Hand wash: Protects silicone
• Cool water: Heat damages silicone
• Rinse silicone well: Soap residue reduces grip
• Air dry: Never machine dry

Restoring Grip

If silicone loses stickiness:

• Wash with mild soap
• Rinse thoroughly
• Let dry completely
• Grip often returns after washing

Sizing for Hold-Ups

Size matters more with hold-ups:

• Too small: Band stretched thin, less grip
• Too big: Band loose, won't stay up
• Right size: Snug but not stretched

If between sizes, go smaller for better grip.

Brand Recommendations

• Best grip: Wolford, Falke
• Good value: Pretty Polly, Charnos
• Wide bands: Commando, Spanx