1940s Hosiery

The 1940s were transformative for hosiery—from the rise of nylon to wartime shortages that changed how women dressed their legs.

Early 1940s: Nylon Arrives

• 1940: First nylon stockings sold commercially
• 64 million pairs sold first year
• Revolutionary compared to silk
• More durable, less expensive

Wartime Shortages (1942-1945)

When the U.S. entered WWII, nylon was diverted to military use:

• Parachutes needed nylon
• Stockings became nearly impossible to find
• Women turned to alternatives

Leg Makeup

• Gravy browning used as substitute
• Commercial leg paint developed
• Eyebrow pencil for drawing seams
• Friends helped draw straight lines

Post-War: The Nylon Riots

When nylon production resumed in 1945:

• Demand far exceeded supply
• Women lined up for hours
• Some stores saw actual riots
• Pittsburgh: 40,000 women, 13,000 pairs

1940s Style

• Seamed stockings standard
• Fully fashioned construction
• Nude and tan shades popular
• Cuban heels fashionable

Cultural Impact

The stocking shortage:

• Made bare legs more acceptable
• Increased demand for trousers
• Created lasting appreciation for nylons
• Established stockings as luxury item