Pinup Style Hosiery

The pinup aesthetic celebrates 1940s-50s glamour—and hosiery is absolutely central to the look. Seamed stockings, Cuban heels, and garter belts are essential elements that define this iconic style.

The Essential Elements

1. Seamed Stockings

The back seam is non-negotiable for authentic pinup:

• Dark seams: Contrast against nude base
• Straight lines: Keep seams perfectly aligned
• Fully fashioned: For ultimate authenticity
• Modern alternatives: Mock-seam stockings work too

2. Cuban or French Heels

The reinforced heel completes the vintage look:

• Cuban heel: Square/rectangular shape—most iconic
• French heel: Curved, elegant alternative
• Contrast color: Darker than the leg for visibility
• Point heel: Another vintage option

3. Garter Belt

Stockings need something to hold them up:

• Essential: Garter belts are part of the aesthetic
• Visible or hidden: Depends on the outfit
• Vintage style: Simple satin or lace
• 4-6 straps: Functional and flattering

Color Palette

Nude/Flesh Tones

• Most authentic: Period-accurate choice
• Dark seams: Black or brown seam on nude base
• Suntan shades: Popular in original pinup photos

Black

• Dramatic: Classic pinup choice
• Seams optional: Still reads as pinup in black
• Works with: Red lipstick, bold makeup

White

• Bridal pinup: Wedding-themed shoots
• Nurse costume: Classic pinup trope
• Bold statement: Very visible

The Complete Pinup Look

Below the Waist

• High-waisted panties or shorts
• Garter belt over panties
• Seamed stockings with Cuban heels
• High heels—stilettos or peep-toe pumps

Above the Waist

• Fitted tops, sweaters, or halter necks
• Bullet bra or vintage-style bra
• High-waisted skirts or shorts
• Red lipstick, winged eyeliner
• Victory rolls or pin curls

Shopping for Pinup Hosiery

Modern Brands

• What Katie Did: Reproduction vintage styles
• Secrets in Lace: Wide vintage selection
• Gio: Authentic fully fashioned production
• Cervin: French vintage-style hosiery
• Stockingirl: Various vintage styles

What to Look For

• True seams: Not just printed lines
• Cuban heel: Square reinforcement
• Fashion marks: If authentic fully fashioned
• Deep welt: For secure garter attachment

Denier for Pinup

Traditional pinup uses specific weights:

• 15 denier: Most common vintage weight
• 20 denier: Slightly more coverage, still authentic
• Higher than 30: Starts to look too modern

Sheerness is part of the appeal—don't go too thick.

Putting Together an Outfit

Classic Combinations

• Pencil skirt + seamed stockings + pumps: Secretary pinup
• High-waisted shorts + stockings + heels: Playful pinup
• Circle skirt + stockings + saddle shoes: 1950s casual
• Corset + stockings + garter belt: Boudoir pinup

Common Mistakes

• Crooked seams: Check and straighten constantly
• Wrong denier: Too thick looks wrong
• Hold-ups: Silicone bands aren't authentic pinup
• Pantyhose: Never with pinup styling
• Wrong era mixing: Keep accessories from same period

Pinup Photography Tips

If you're shooting pinup style:

• Seam visibility: Angle legs to show the seam
• Straight seams: Double-check before shooting
• Garter glimpses: Hint of garter belt is classic
• Leg poses: Point toes, cross ankles
• Lighting: Show the sheen of nylon

Modern Pinup Occasions

Where to wear pinup hosiery today:

• Vintage/rockabilly events
• Themed parties
• Pinup photo shoots
• Burlesque performances
• Car shows and retro events
• Halloween (vintage-style)
• Boudoir photography