Stockings

How to choose your size

Hold-ups stay up thanks to the silicone band sewn into the top edge. For it to work, the skin of the thigh has to be clean and dry: moisturiser applied just before putting them on is the most common reason stockings slide down. For fuller thighs, choose styles with a wider, double-row band.

Stockings worn with a suspender belt need the belt matched to your waist measurement, and they have a reinforced top edge for the clips. Stocking size is chosen by height and thigh measurement - the manufacturer's chart matters more here than your dress size.

The DEN figure works exactly as it does in tights: up to 20 DEN is sheer, from 40 DEN they become opaque and matt. Hand wash in lukewarm water and dry flat. Free delivery over PLN 199, 14-day returns.

A wider choice of hosiery is in tights, and warmer styles for winter in 40 DEN tights. Your size follows from height and hip measurement - you will find it in the size chart.

What to look out for

Stockings differ from tights in that they end at the thigh and stay there either by a silicone band or by being clipped to a suspender belt. The first version, the hold-up, is more convenient day to day; the second holds more securely, especially on slimmer thighs, where silicone slips more easily.

Fabric and comfort

Thickness is given in deniers, just as with tights. Styles of 15-20 DEN are sheer and meant for warmer days, 40 DEN and above cover more strongly and hide the skin better. The top edge may be plain or lace - lace usually prints through less under a fitted dress than a wide plain band.

More about this category

To put them on, gather the stocking into a concertina over your hand and roll it up gradually instead of pulling on the edge. The silicone band should never come into contact with body lotion - the oils take away its grip, and the stockings start to slide down.

When choosing a colour, remember the difference between nude and beige: the first adapts to your complexion, the second is distinctly more yellow and under artificial light can stand out against the skin of the leg. It is worth comparing the two on your hand before buying a whole set.