Hosiery in the 1960s was a defining element of the decade’s fashion, undergoing significant changes that reflected the evolving styles of the era. The introduction of the miniskirt, pioneered by designers like Mary Quant, brought hosiery into the spotlight. With hemlines rising dramatically, stockings and tights became essential for women, offering both practicality and a way to express personal style. Before the 1960s, stockings were typically worn with garters, but as shorter skirts became the norm, the demand for seamless, sleek legwear grew, leading to the widespread popularity of pantyhose or tights.
One of the biggest shifts in 1960s hosiery was the move from traditional stockings to tights. Pantyhose, introduced in the late 1950s, became a fashion staple by the mid-1960s due to their convenience and versatility. Unlike stockings, which required a garter belt, tights offered full coverage and could be easily worn under the new, daringly short skirts. Women no longer needed to worry about visible garter straps or seams showing beneath their clothing. This shift to tights allowed for a smoother, more streamlined look, perfectly suited to the minimalist, futuristic designs of the decade.
Hosiery in the 1960s also embraced bold, vibrant colors and patterns, reflecting the playful and rebellious spirit of the time. As fashion became more experimental, so did tights. While nude and black remained classic choices, bright colors like red, yellow, and purple became popular, especially among younger women looking to make a statement. Patterned tights, including geometric shapes, stripes, and even fishnets, were also worn to complement the mod aesthetic. These designs added a layer of fun and individuality to outfits, often paired with eye-catching miniskirts or shift dresses in equally bold prints.
The materials used in hosiery during the 1960s also evolved. Nylon was the fabric of choice for its durability, affordability, and comfort. Nylon tights were lightweight, yet strong enough to withstand the wear and tear of daily use. As manufacturing processes improved, tights became more accessible and affordable, leading to their mass appeal across different social classes. The affordability of nylon hosiery meant that women could own multiple pairs in various colors and styles, making hosiery not just a functional item but a key fashion accessory.
By the late 1960s, tights had solidified their place in women’s wardrobes, and hosiery became an essential component of the new fashion landscape. Whether it was the high-contrast white tights worn with go-go boots or the psychedelic prints that matched the era’s counterculture, hosiery in the 1960s was all about breaking away from tradition and embracing a new, liberated sense of style. The influence of hosiery from this era can still be seen today, with many modern designers drawing inspiration from the bold, colorful looks of the 1960s.
In summary, the 1960s were a transformative period for hosiery, shifting from the classic, conservative stockings of previous decades to the vibrant, versatile tights that defined the decade’s fashion. This change not only provided women with more freedom and flexibility in their wardrobe choices but also allowed hosiery to become a form of self-expression. From bold patterns and bright colors to the sleek look of seamless tights, 1960s hosiery remains a symbol of the era’s groundbreaking fashion trends.
