1980s Hosiery History

The 1980s brought hosiery into bold new territory. Power dressing demanded polished legs, fashion embraced color and texture, and music videos made legs a focus of style expression.

Power Dressing

The Corporate Look

• Women in executive positions
• Shoulder pads and suits
• Polished, professional appearance
• Hosiery absolutely required

Office Hosiery Standards

• Sheer pantyhose mandatory
• Nude or suntan colors
• Reinforced toe for pumps
• No bare legs in workplace

Fashion Tights Explosion

Color Revolution

• Bright, bold colors
• Electric blue, hot pink, purple
• Opaque statement pieces
• Matching accessories

Patterns and Textures

• Geometric prints
• Lace patterns
• Ribbed textures
• Animal prints
• Polka dots

MTV and Music Influence

Video Fashion

Music videos showcased hosiery like never before:

• Madonna's lace and fishnet styles
• Cyndi Lauper's colorful tights
• Pat Benatar's rock looks
• Dance and aerobics influence

Street Style

• Layered looks (tights under shorts)
• Ripped and distressed styles
• Punk influence on hosiery
• DIY customization

Leg Warmers

The Trend

• Worn over tights or pantyhose
• Flashdance (1983) influence
• Aerobics fashion crossover
• Knit and ribbed styles

Styling

• Slouched around ankles
• Over tights or leggings
• Bright colors popular
• Casual and athletic looks

Athletic Influence

Aerobics Culture

• Jane Fonda workout videos
• Leotards with tights
• Dance-inspired fashion
• Athletic wear as streetwear

Stirrup Tights

• Loop under foot
• Kept tights in place
• Popular with heels
• Dance-wear inspired

Evening Glamour

Sheer and Sexy

• Ultra-sheer for evening
• Shimmery options
• Rhinestone details
• Seamed stockings revival for lingerie

Black Tie Looks

• Sheer black dominant
• 10-15 denier
• Elegant simplicity
• Back seams for drama

Technology Advances

Better Products

• Improved run-resistant technology
• Softer microfiber materials
• Better control top comfort
• More durable construction

Specialty Products

• Maternity pantyhose improved
• Plus sizes expanded
• Support hosiery fashion-forward

Brand Competition

Major Players

• Hanes
• L'eggs
• No Nonsense
• Donna Karan (luxury)

Designer Hosiery

• Calvin Klein hosiery
• Ralph Lauren
• Designer brands enter market
• Premium price points

Cultural Moments

Dynasty and Dallas

• TV glamour influence
• Always perfectly dressed
• Hosiery part of polished look
• Aspirational styling

Princess Diana Effect

• Royal influence on fashion
• Elegant hosiery choices
• Copied worldwide