Beginners Guide to Stockings, Tights and Hold Ups
If you're new to retro style hosiery, or hosiery of any kind, then the terminology can be confusing - but help is at hand!
Take a look at our video to learn the difference between the 3 garments, the different terms around the world, as well as why other stocking manufacturers don't include suspender clips in their product imagery.
- Stockings - need a suspender belt to hold them up
- Hold Ups & Stay Ups - have a silicone band to enable them to stay up by themselves.
- Tights - go right up to your waist.
If you're new to retro style hosiery, or hosiery of any kind, then the terminology can be confusing - but help is at hand!
Check out our guide to hosiery and all will be revealed.
Stockings vs Tights vs Hold Ups
While Seamed Stockings are a staple for fans of vintage fashion, if you're new to the vintage scene, I know the terminology can get a bit confusing.
It's easy to assume tights are stockings and hold-ups are tights and ask yourself, "when do I need a suspender belt?" Well, fear no more, as I know these simple confusions can cause aggravation.
Stockings: all of our stockings require a Suspender Belt, as they are not designed to hold up by themselves.
Tights: tights go up to the waist.
Hold Ups (Also know as Stay Ups): hold ups have a silicone band on the inside to ensure that they stay up by itself. You do not need to wear a Suspender Belt with hold ups. You can wear a Suspender Belt with your hold ups but will need a retro style study clip as sometimes it's difficult to clip though the silicone.
At What Katie Did we make stockings and tights, but not hold ups.