American Hosiery History
America transformed hosiery from luxury to everyday essential. DuPont's invention of nylon in 1935 revolutionized the industry and changed how the world thinks about legwear.
Colonial Era
- Stockings imported from Europe
- Hand-knitting for necessities
- Status symbol for wealthy
- Simple wool for workers
Industrial Growth
1800s
- Textile mills establish
- New England manufacturing
- Cotton production expands
- Growing middle class market
The Nylon Revolution
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| 1935 | DuPont develops nylon |
| 1939 | Nylon stockings debut |
| 1940 | "Nylon Day" - mass sales begin |
| 1942-45 | WWII halts civilian production |
| 1945 | "Nylon riots" - pent-up demand |
Nylon Day: May 15, 1940
- First nationwide nylon stocking sale
- 4 million pairs sold in 4 days
- Called "Nylon Day"
- Unprecedented consumer excitement
World War II Impact
- Nylon diverted to military (parachutes)
- Women returned to silk, rayon
- Leg makeup as alternative
- Post-war: "Nylon riots" at stores
Post-War Boom
- Mass production ramps up
- Every woman wears stockings
- Fashion becomes democratic
- American brands dominate
Famous American Brands
- Hanes (1901)
- L'eggs (1969)
- No Nonsense
- Donna Karan Hosiery
- DKNY
- Commando
American Innovations
- Nylon fiber (1935)
- Pantyhose (1959)
- Control top technology
- Mass market retail
- Egg-shaped packaging (L'eggs)
Cultural Impact
1960s-70s
- Pantyhose replaces stockings
- Miniskirt makes change essential
- Democratization of fashion
1980s-90s
- Power dressing era
- Nude hosiery standard
- Corporate America look
Modern Era
- Casual dress reduces demand
- Bare legs acceptable
- Fashion hosiery niche
- Shapewear integration