Information AboutPantyhose |
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Pantyhose (also known as ''' Sheer Tights ''' [Brit. ) are close fitting coverings of the body from the waist to the feet, most frequently worn by women. Like Stocking s they are usually made of Nylon . The one-piece pantyhose garment appeared in the 1960s and provided a preferable alternative to nylon stockings with their inconvenient uncomfortable garters (suspenders Brit). The term 'pantyhose' originated in the United States , referring to the combination of ' Panties ' (an American term for women's underpants) with sheer nylon Hosiery . (In GB they are called tights), a term that refers to all such garments regardless of their sheerness (denier). In the U.S., the term tights is used for non-sheer garments similar to pantyhose but thicker such as those worn by younger girls, dancers, cyclists and athletes. BENEFITS OF WEARING PANTYHOSE Pantyhose are worn for a number of reasons most primarily 'cosmetic'. Sheer pantyhose that compliment a particular skin shade can enhance the appearance hiding blemishes and making legs look smoother/tanned when worn with a skirt/dress. Darker pantyhose can enhance the legs by outlining the shape and by making them appear slimmer. Brown-er colored pantyhose give the illusion of tanned legs. Pantyhose also have a lesser practical value as they can despite their apparent sheerness still provide warmth in colder weather and let one appear "bare-legged" even in the winter months. Pantyhose that are knitted with Lycra can enhance blood circulation by applying even pressure on the legs throughout the day whilst also offering support for the stomach/etc! Pantyhose are currently still a standard sight in offices worldwide where they have been accepted as part of a womans professional Dress Code . Though a barelegged Trend is now popular amongst younger women, Hosiery is still common in offices and places where formal dress is required with the possible exception of 'high summer' wherwhen they become distinctly 'hot' and uncomfortable to bear for most women. Schools with Uniforms (particularly Catholic Schools ) often require some sort of Hosiery as a part of the uniform (usually pantyhose or thicker Tights ). PANTYHOSE STYLES Pantyhose are available in a wide range of styles. The sheerness of the garment, expressed as a numerical ' Denier '/'dtex', ranges from 3 (extremely rare, very thin, barely visible) to 15 (standard sheer) up to 30 (semi-opaque) however 10 is now cosidered at least within europe and the UK as the ideal weight. Pantyhose are sold in a variety of colors, textures and patterns. In Business Wear , the texture is usually neutral and the most common shades are nude, natural tan, champagne (a very light shade) the very popular barely blacks which are an 'off' black either grey or brown tinted dependant on the manufacturers 'take'. Pantyhose are considered a part of the lingerie wardrobe for some, and thus as in years past not unlike 'nylons' a turn-on for many men when worn by women. This especially applies to styles which are shiny, silky, and sheer-to-waist. Many men are attracted to those alluring qualities, which are most often found in upscale hosiery. THE COMPOSITION OF PANTYHOSE Most pantyhose are composed of Nylon and a small amount of Spandex , which provides the elasticity and form fitting that is characteristic of modern pantyhose. Unfortunately, the nylon fabric is somewhat prone to tearing and it is common for very sheer hose to 'run' (ladder GB) soon after snagging on something rough or sharp. Pantyhose worn for fashion have a standard construction. The top of the waist is a strong elastic. The part covering the hips (boxer/brief area) is composed of a thicker material than the legs with the exception of the increasingly fashionable sheer-to-waist designs. The gusset or crotch is also a stronger material, sometimes made of Cotton . The legs of the pantyhose are made of the thinnest material which has a consistent construction down to the toes, which may be reinforced to guard against wear. How pantyhose are manufactured PANTYHOSE AND MEN Hose for the legs were part of European male fashion from the time men's tunics began to be worn shorter in the 14th century until hose were replaced by stockings in the 17th century; meanwhile women hid their legs from public view. This trend reversed, however, with men wearing trousers and women exposing their legs. In the 20th century, pantyhose have been mass-marketed to women exclusively. However, in recent years some versions for men 1 have appeared in the marketplace, touted for warmth as well as for appearance, improved blood circulation, and comfort. It has been suggested that these male versions, which may or may not incorporate a fly, be referred to as "boxerhose", since men do not wear panties and the term sounds less feminine. Although the garment bears little resemblance to boxers, they supposedly resemble boxer briefs with hosiery added. Currently, no manufacturer uses the term. Pantyhose for male horseback riders are recommended by such riders as William Shatner for protection against blisters and abrasions on the man's thighs and buttocks. Surprisingly enough, pantyhose for men have been part of the War In Iraq . "One item U.S. military personnel in Iraq are asking for is pantyhose. Dating back to his days as a professional football player, Bart Starr said he wore pantyhose for warmth during games. Now, that might give some people pause, but pantyhose are one way that military personnel can protect themselves from pesky sand fleas". 2 . Article from Entrepreneur Magazine Sometimes men wear the pantyhose for concealment of the face when committing criminal acts. Men also wear pantyhose for pleasure as an aspect of Pantyhose Fetishism . FAMOUS PANTYHOSE WEARERS
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