Renaissance Hosiery

During the Renaissance (14th-17th centuries), hosiery became a fashion statement and status symbol, particularly for men.

The Rise of the Stocking

Before the Renaissance:

• Legs covered by long robes
• Leg coverings functional only
• Cloth wrapped or sewn

During Renaissance:

• Shorter tunics for men
• Legs became visible
• Fitted stockings emerged
• Fashion potential realized

Materials

Common Folk

• Wool (most common)
• Linen
• Cut and sewn fabric

Nobility

• Silk (expensive import)
• Fine wool
• Eventually: knitted silk

The Knitting Revolution

1589: William Lee invents knitting machine

• First mechanical stocking frame
• Much faster than hand-knitting
• Made stockings more accessible
• Queen Elizabeth refused patent (fear for hand-knitters)

Men's Fashion

Men were the primary fashion-forward hosiery wearers:

• Bright colors: red, blue, yellow
• Embroidered designs
• Silk for special occasions
• Showed wealth and status
• Henry VIII known for fine stockings

Women's Hosiery

Women's hosiery was more modest:

• Hidden under long skirts
• Functional purpose
• Less elaborate than men's
• Would change in later centuries

Garters

• Ribbons or bands held stockings up
• Tied below or above knee
• Decorative for men (visible)
• Functional for women (hidden)