Fashion Trends
THE INTRODUCTION OF TIGHTS When nylon tights were first introduced in the 1960s it liberated women from girdles roll-ons. It's difficult to know which came first the mini skirt or the tights, but the introduction of seamless stockings had started the tights revolution. What is certain is that one could have existed without the other as bare legged were not acceptable.
The term 'pantyhoise' originated in the United States, referring to the combination of panties (an American term for women's underpants) with sheer nylon hosiery meaning they are usually worn without other undergarments. In the UK they are called tights, a term that refers to all such garments regardless of whether they are sheer or sturdy outerwear. In America the term tights is used for non-sheer garments typically made of a stretchy material like spandex, and worn during exercise or athletic activity, or as utility clothing. In terms of the history of tights there have been many different trends and adaptations.
TRENDS IN THE 1960S A pair of Wolsey tights cost about £1 in 1965 and with careful daily washing they could be made to last a month. Obviously planned obsolescence has been introduced since then for all brands, as most of us now find it difficult to make them last for more than a day or two's wear.
Patterned Tights in the late 60s were common, diamonds patterns were popular and the favourite colour was “American Tan”, which is still a popular today.
The 1960s is now a part of history. I am reliable informed that the Liverpool Museum has a pair of “Beatle Nylon Stocking” as part of their collection. This just goes to show how interesting and diverse the history tights and stockings is.
TRENDS IN THE 1990S By the early 1990s the only tights to wear with the short skirt of the time were black and opaque. By the late 90's the bare nude look leg was popular and natural toned tights were acceptable again. Many younger women simply abandoned tights altogether preferring the totally natural leg.
At the same time many variations of tights came into the shops. These could range from soft and sheer to shiny, support or bare effects. Wearing tights still remains correct for business wear. Stockings were revived as leg wear in the 1990s but mostly kept for the bedroom.
TRENDS IN 2008. Footless tights have been around for a while. This winter its brightly coloured tights such as reds, purples, as well as black tights, which will add fun to a winter warddropes. Stripy tights will also add more fun to you outfits. For a selection of designer tights and stockings there are a number of good website for you can look at
