Stockings & tights

Deniers, in a nutshell

It refers to the thickness of the yarn. Below 20 denier, the fabric is sheer, very fine, and fragile. Between 40 and 60 denier, you get a comfortable, opaque fabric that lasts through the winter. In between, semi-opaque tights offer a good compromise. A low denier number isn’t a sign of quality—it’s a matter of style, and it comes at the cost of durability.

Stockings, tights, and hold-ups

Tights stay in place and can be put on in thirty seconds. Garter stockings require a garter belt but leave the waist free. Hold-ups stay in place thanks to a silicone band at the top of the thigh: they’re the simplest of the three, provided you choose the right size—too big and they slip, too small and they leave marks. Apply the band to skin that’s free of lotion; otherwise, it won’t stick.

Making Them Last

Most runs are caused by fingernails and rings, not by wear and tear. Put them on by gently rolling the stocking up on itself, starting from the toes and working your way up. Hand-wash in cold water, or machine-wash in a laundry bag on the delicate cycle. Never use fabric softener or a dryer. Here’s a tip that really works: a new pair left in the freezer overnight—while still damp—is much more resistant to snags.