Why Is Everyone in Patterned Hosiery?
Fashionistas are flashing their legs in statement stockings. We tell you why this, why now
The Celebrity Stylist Says
Sacrificing style for comfort? Not these celebs! “As the temperatures drop, trendsetters are wearing decorative hosiery that delivers warmth and amps up their glam game at the same time for a seriously sexy look,” says Cameron Silver, fashion director of QVC’S H by Halston line. And, he adds, with a variety of patterns available, stockings are incredibly versatile. “Studded stockings like SJP’S add rock-star edge to a feminine frock while Kim’s fishnet cutouts show alluring glimpses of skin to kick her sporty-sultry combo up a steaming-hot notch.” Silver’s tip to looking tight in the trend? “Allover patterns can add bottom-half bulk, so opt for stockings with vertical designs that camouflage flaws while pulling the eye up and down to elongate legs.”
The Designer Says
“Women of a whole new generation are now wearing hosiery because they want to, not because they have to,” says Kerry O’brien, founder and designer at Commando, whose undergarments have been worn by A-listers. And patterned and textured stockings are as important an accessory as a bag or shoes in making a style statement and adding individuality to any look — but at a much lower price point!
The Psychotherapist Says
“As hemlines rose in the 1920s, stockings were primarily used to keep legs under cover,” says Jonathan Alpert, a New York City psychotherapist and author of Be Fearless, Change Your Life in 28 Days. Now they’re less about practicality and more of a way for women to use their legs to express their inner selves. For example, polka-dot hose like Kelly’s say, “I’m playful” while lace-paneled pairs like Diane’s and Chloë’s assert, “I’m chic but badass.”