Hosiery fabric are fine and sheer fabric designed to fit closely to the
skin, thigh, abdomen and foot. It is soft hand and elastic. Hosiery fabric
is easily washable and it also dries quickly.
Hosiery fabric is graded in terms of 'denier'. The higher the denier, the
thicker is the fabric. 15 denier is the standard hosiery fabric. Ten denier
is thinner and easier to snag. Sometimes it is used for eveningwear. From 40
to 80 denier, the hosiery is opaque and it is preferred for winter use.
Most of the modern hosiery is made from nylon, which may contain elastic.
Lycra is also used for an improved fit. Silk hosiery is available, but it is
little expensive. Silk hosiery feels very gorgeous. Thicker hosiery is
obtained from cotton or even wool which make them very warm.
Support hosiery is made with special blends, which clings closely to the
skin. Stocking made of this hosiery fabric make legs feel less tired and is
mainly used by those who experience water retention, swollen legs, and
varicose veins.
Hosiery fabric can be patterned either by weave or by print. Modern
technology allow hosiery to be printed with any design. Hosiery is most
commonly available in shades ranging from skin tones to gray, brown and dark
blue or black.
Characteristics of Hosiery Fabric
It is fine.
It is sheer.
It is elastic.
It clings to the skin.
Uses of Hosiery Fabric
- Tights
- Pantyhose
- Stockings
- Pop socks
- Hold-ups
- Knee-highs
- Ankle-highs
