The World of Fully Fashioned Stockings

If you haven't yet discovered the world of vintage seamed stockings, your wardrobe is about to explode. Playful, sensual and flirtatious all in one, fully fashioned stockings are the perfect finishing touch to any ensemble. As the name would suggest, these stockings are stitched flat, then sewn together so that there is a visible seam running up the back of the leg. Although you may have seen knock offs of the seamed stocking, authentic fully fashioned stockings are often custom made to your height and shoe size.

The traditional seamed stocking is made out of non stretch material, which means that putting them on requires a bit more caution than simply yanking your way into them. Roll them down to the bottom, then gently slide them up over your foot and continue up over the rest of your leg. Although they can certainly handle a bit of natural wear and tear, if you simply shove them on you may find your posh new hosiery with some very inelegant snags.

If you're already swept away and ordering your first pair right now, you may have noticed that there are also several heel options available. Traditional options include the French, Cuban and Havana heels. However, more recently, designers have started creating hybrid variations such as the Manhattan, Oxford and Berlin. As far as durability and fashion goes, they're all equal, so it's really a matter of personal taste. For example, the Cuban heel has a slightly squarer top, whereas the French heel, also known as the Pyramid heel, is more pointed and disappears straight into the seam.

Traditionally associated with the classic 1940s/50s pin-up girl, there are all kinds of different variations now available on the seamed stocking, from myriad shades to styles where the seam is a different color than the rest of the nylon. Whether you are looking for sophisticated and polished or something a little more playful and spicy, there is the perfect seamed stocking for you. Although some of these slinky stockings can certainly run you a pretty penny, on average $50-$75 a pop, with a little hunting around you can find some decent deals. For an inexpensive yet quality pair of sexy vintage panty hose, check out Magnolia Hosiery. With a pair of these classy stockings you'll be sure to turn heads as you strut the streets.