Knee-highs

Fabric and comfort

Comfort comes down to the top welt. Too narrow and too tight, it leaves a mark on the calf and can restrict - look for styles with a wide, soft welt or a comfort finish with no elastic at all. If you are prone to swelling, this is the single most important feature.

Knee-highs fall into two groups: fine ones, rated in DEN, and knitted ones in cotton, wool or bamboo. The fine versions replace tights under trousers; the heavier ones work as socks with a longer leg and do well in winter inside boots, because they do not slide down to the ankle.

The collection holds plain, microfibre and patterned styles, for women and men, in one-size and numbered sizes. Wash the fine ones in a mesh bag at 30 degrees so they do not snag on zips and hook-and-loop fastenings. Dispatch in 1-2 working days, free delivery over PLN 199, 60-day returns.

The range splits into two groups. Fine nylon knee-highs, rated at anywhere from a dozen to several dozen DEN, are the equivalent of tights - sheer, smooth, in nude shades and black. The heavier cotton or wool versions are a warming layer for cold days.

Fine nylon styles are best washed in a mesh bag and separately from clothing with zips or hook-and-loop fastenings. A single catch is enough to start a ladder, and in smooth knit it runs the whole length of the piece. Wash heavier cotton and wool styles at 40 degrees and dry them flat so the leg keeps its shape.

What to look out for

Knee-highs reach just below the knee and sit halfway between socks and tights. Worn under trousers and longer skirts they give warmth without a constricting waistband, and in summer, in a fine version, they replace tights inside closed shoes.

Which style to choose

The key element is the welt. It should be wide and soft, ideally with silicone strips on the inside if the style is not to slide down. A welt that is too narrow digs into the calf and leaves a mark that stays for hours.

How to choose your size

The collection holds styles by Milena, Cerber and Legs. If you need a longer version, see over-the-knee socks; if you need full-length hosiery, see tights. Choose your size by shoe size or calf measurement, depending on what the manufacturer specifies.