In the midst of World War II, sheer tights—or nylons as they were often called—became a coveted luxury item. At a time when the world was focused on survival, the simple act of wearing a pair of sheer tights took on an extraordinary significance. Nylons were more than just a fashion statement; they represented a piece of normalcy, femininity, and even patriotism during one of the most challenging periods in modern history.
The Birth of Nylons
Before World War II, silk stockings were the standard for women’s hosiery. However, silk was expensive and not very durable, leading to frequent runs and tears. The invention of nylon in 1938 by Wallace Carothers and his team at DuPont revolutionized the hosiery industry. Nylon was stronger, more elastic, and far more affordable than silk, making it an instant hit among women when the first nylons were sold in 1940.
By the time the United States entered World War II in 1941, nylons had already become a must-have fashion item. Women loved them for their sleek appearance and durability, and they were quickly becoming an essential part of every woman’s wardrobe.
Nylons Become a Wartime Commodity
However, as the war intensified, nylon was no longer just used for hosiery. The military discovered that nylon was an incredibly versatile material that could be used to make parachutes, ropes, and other essential war supplies. As a result, the U.S. government redirected the production of nylon from consumer goods to military use. This shift led to an immediate shortage of nylon stockings.
Women, who had just started to enjoy the convenience and beauty of nylons, suddenly found themselves without access to this beloved item. Nylons became increasingly difficult to find, and when they were available, they were often sold out within minutes.
The Black Market and Nylon Riots
The scarcity of nylon stockings led to a booming black market. Women were willing to pay exorbitant prices for a pair of nylons, and some even resorted to trading other goods or favors to obtain them. The situation became so dire that in some cases, women were mugged for their stockings.
One of the most striking examples of the desperation for nylons was the phenomenon of “nylon riots.” After the war, when nylon production finally returned to normal, DuPont announced that nylons would be available again in stores. In 1945, when the first shipments of nylons arrived, thousands of women lined up outside department stores, eager to get their hands on a pair. In several cities, these queues turned into riots as women fought for the limited stock.
The Art of “Painting” Legs
During the war, when nylons were unavailable, women found creative ways to replicate the look of sheer tights. One popular method was to “paint” their legs using makeup, cocoa powder, or even gravy to mimic the color and appearance of nylons. To complete the illusion, women would draw a seam down the back of their legs with eyeliner or a brow pencil, imitating the seam that was typical of stockings at the time. This practice highlighted just how important nylons had become in the cultural and social fabric of the era.
Nylons as a Symbol of Femininity and Patriotism
Nylon stockings during World War II were more than just a fashion item; they were a symbol of femininity at a time when traditional gender roles were being challenged by the demands of war. Women who were working in factories, serving in auxiliary military roles, or managing households on their own still wanted to maintain a sense of elegance and normalcy. Wearing nylons, or even mimicking their appearance, allowed women to hold onto a piece of their identity in the midst of chaos.
Nylons also became a symbol of patriotism. The government urged women to donate their old stockings to be recycled into materials for the war effort. Ads encouraged women to be resourceful, suggesting they make do with what they had to support the troops. This sense of shared sacrifice and contribution to the war effort was embodied in the scarcity and eventual resurgence of nylons.
Final Thoughts
The history of sheer tights during World War II is a fascinating example of how a simple item of clothing can take on profound cultural significance. Nylons became more than just a piece of hosiery—they were a symbol of resilience, resourcefulness, and the desire for normalcy in a time of unprecedented global conflict. Today, they serve as a reminder of how fashion can intersect with history, reflecting the values and challenges of the times.
