Preserving the Silk: The Definitive Guide to Hosiery Care

Fine hosiery is an investment. Whether you own a pair of 5D ultra-sheer stockings or a richly textured 40D thigh-high, proper care will extend their life dramatically — and keep them looking flawless wear after wear.

Rule 1: Always Hand Wash

Machine washing — even on a delicate cycle — creates friction and stress that will quickly destroy fine hosiery. Fill a basin with cool or lukewarm water and add a small amount of gentle lingerie detergent or baby shampoo. Submerge your stockings, swirl gently, and let them soak for 2–3 minutes.

Rule 2: Never Wring or Twist

After washing, do not wring the water out. Instead, gently press the hosiery between your palms, or roll them in a clean towel and press lightly to absorb excess moisture. Twisting or wringing will distort the fibres permanently.

Rule 3: Lay Flat to Dry

Never tumble dry hosiery — heat will destroy the elasticity. Instead, lay them flat on a clean towel or hang them over a rack away from direct sunlight. Do not peg them at the toe or waist — this creates stress points.

Rule 4: Prepare Your Hands Before Wearing

Rough skin, sharp nails, rings, and watches are the number one cause of snags. Before putting on fine hosiery, ensure your hands are smooth and moisturised, and remove all jewellery from your hands and wrists.

Rule 5: Put Them On Correctly

Never pull hosiery up by the top — this strains the fabric. Instead, gather each leg down to the toe, slip it on your foot, and then gradually smooth the fabric up your leg in small sections. Take your time. There is no elegant way to rush this.

Rule 6: Store Them Folded, Not Balled

Balling up stockings creates stress points and stretches the silicone band on thigh-highs. Fold them gently and store flat in a dedicated lingerie drawer, away from sharp objects.

Rule 7: Know When to Replace

Even with perfect care, ultra-fine hosiery has a natural lifespan. A small snag does not always mean the end — clear nail polish applied to the edges of a run can stop it from spreading. But when the fit or finish is compromised, it is time for a fresh pair.

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Our hosiery is crafted to reward careful handling. Browse our full collection of luxury stockings and thigh-highs — and wear them like they deserve to be worn.