Nylon stockings go on sale for first time, in the USA

On May 15, 1940, a significant event took place in the United States that forever changed the world of fashion and women’s attire. It was the day when nylon stockings went on sale for the first time in the country, marking a milestone in the history of hosiery.

The arrival of nylon stockings was eagerly awaited by the American public, especially women, who had long relied on silk stockings that were not only expensive but also prone to snags and runs. Nylon stockings, on the other hand, promised durability, affordability, and a smooth, flattering appearance.

The creation and production of nylon stockings can be attributed to the innovative efforts of the DuPont chemical company. The development of nylon as a synthetic material began in the late 1920s and early 1930s when a team of scientists at DuPont discovered a way to produce fibers with similar properties to silk. These fibers were then woven into stockings, creating a revolutionary alternative to traditional silk stockings.

When nylon stockings were introduced to the market, they quickly gained popularity. Their affordability and superior quality made them accessible to a wider range of consumers. Women across the country flocked to stores to get their hands on these new, fashionable hosiery items.

The first day of nylon stockings being available for sale in the US was nothing short of a frenzy. Thousands of women lined up outside stores, eagerly waiting for the doors to open. Some reports even suggest that fights broke out as women jostled to be one of the lucky few to purchase a pair of these coveted stockings.

The launch of nylon stockings also had a significant impact on the economy. The demand for nylon was so high that DuPont struggled to keep up with production, leading to rationing during World War II. Nylon became a valuable resource that was redirected towards the war effort, with stockings being replaced by parachutes and other military applications.

Nylon stockings quickly became a symbol of femininity and allure. The seam running up the back of the leg became an iconic feature of women’s fashion, and it was not uncommon to see women using eyebrow pencils or even specialized stockings with a dark line to mimic the look of a seam.

However, nylon stockings were not without their challenges. The material, though durable, was prone to snagging and runs. Women had to be careful when wearing them, taking precautions such as wearing gloves when putting them on to avoid damaging the delicate fabric. Nonetheless, the popularity of nylon stockings endured, and they remained a staple in women’s fashion for decades.

Today, nylon stockings may not be as prevalent as they once were, but their introduction in 1940 marked a turning point in the fashion industry. The availability of affordable, high-quality stockings revolutionized women’s attire, and nylon became synonymous with elegance and femininity.

The event on May 15, 1940, when nylon stockings went on sale for the first time in the USA, will forever be remembered as a transformative moment in fashion history. It not only provided women with a more accessible and durable hosiery option but also paved the way for the introduction of other synthetic materials in the world of fashion.