British Hosiery History
Britain revolutionized hosiery production with the invention of the stocking frame in 1589. This innovation launched an industry that shaped global legwear manufacturing for centuries.
The Stocking Frame
- 1589: William Lee invents stocking frame
- First mechanical knitting machine
- Revolutionized production speed
- Nottinghamshire becomes center
- Framework knitting industry born
Key Historical Periods
| Period | Developments |
|---|---|
| 1600s | Industry establishes in Midlands |
| 1700s | Mass production grows |
| 1800s | Industrial Revolution advances |
| 1900s | Nylon adoption, modernization |
Nottingham & Leicester
The Hosiery Heartland
- Centuries of manufacturing expertise
- Skilled workforce tradition
- Technical innovation center
- Still active today (reduced)
Victorian Era
- Mass market expansion
- Cotton and wool production
- Export to Empire markets
- Class distinctions in quality
World War Impacts
WWI
- Military sock production
- Women enter workforce
- Industry transformation
WWII
- Nylon rationing
- Leg painting popular
- "Seam drawing" on legs
- Post-war nylon adoption
Famous British Brands
- Aristoc (1920)
- Pretty Polly (1919)
- Charnos
- Gossard
- Wolsey
- Falke UK
British Innovations
- Stocking frame (1589)
- Circular knitting improvements
- Quality control standards
- Marketing innovations
Modern Industry
Challenges
- Competition from Asia
- Factory closures
- Reduced domestic production
Survivors
- Premium/luxury focus
- Heritage brands
- Specialty manufacturing
- Niche markets
British Style Influence
- School uniform traditions
- Conservative elegance
- Quality over flash
- Durability focus