Real nylons – basics

“Fake” nylons

The term “nylons” is used very differently today. Many modern stockings contain elastane or Lycra and therefore differ significantly from classic nylon stockings.

Genuine nylons, on the other hand, are made of 100% nylon (polyamide) and are manufactured using traditional production methods. It is not only the material that is decisive, but above all the quality of the yarn and the elaborate production process.

This special production process ensures the typical look, the elegant fit and the unmistakable shine of genuine nylon stockings.

How real nylons are made

The production of genuine nylon stockings is a complex process that has hardly changed since the 1950s.

First, the stockings are made on traditional flatbed knitting machines. Each stocking is then sewn together by hand. This creates the typical “keyhole” at the top of the seam, a characteristic feature of genuine fully-fashioned nylons.

After sewing, the stockings are dyed, dried and then stretched onto pre-formed leg models. A steaming process gives the stocking its final shape and the elegant lines of the leg.

Finally, a careful quality check is carried out. Each stocking is checked, assembled into a matching pair and packaged by hand.

What types of nylons are there – RHT or fully fashioned?

There are two main types of genuine nylon stockings: Fully Fashioned (FF) and RHT (Reinforced Heel and Toe).

Fully fashioned nylons are knitted flat and then sewn together by hand. This creates the characteristic back seam, which visually stretches the leg and characterizes the classic vintage look of the 1940s and 1950s. This production method is particularly elaborate and is considered the most traditional form of genuine nylon stockings.

RHT (Reinforced Heel and Toe) stockings, on the other hand, have reinforced toe and heel areas, but can be made with or without seams. They are somewhat more robust for everyday wear, but still retain the typical elegance of real nylons.

Both versions are made of 100% nylon and differ mainly in the way they are manufactured, their look and feel.

What heel shapes are available for fully fashioned nylons?

The different heel shapes are a typical design feature of classic fully-fashioned nylons. Originally used for reinforcement, today they are primarily a stylistic element.

All variants are based on a reinforced heel section that runs slightly over the ankle and visually shapes the leg.

• Point heel (French heel)
  The classic, elegant shape. The reinforcement tapers into the seam and looks particularly feminine and delicate.
• Cuban heel
  A more angular version of the point heel with a flat toe. It looks a little more distinctive and was particularly popular in the 1940s.
• Havana Heel
  Similar to the Cuban Heel, but wider and therefore more visually present.
• Manhattan Heel
  A decorative variant with additional lines or seams, reminiscent of the architecture of skyscrapers.
• Susan Heel
  A longer, higher heel reinforcement that gives the leg an additional optical extension.
• Harmony Point
  A modern interpretation of the classic point heel with a particularly harmonious transition into the seam.
• Memphis Heel
  An eye-catching design variant with a more pronounced geometric shape – ideal for an expressive vintage look.

Why do real nylons feel different to modern tights?

Many customers immediately notice a difference when they wear real nylon stockings for the first time. This difference is due to the material and the traditional manufacturing process.

Modern tights usually contain elastane or Lycra. As a result, they are very stretchy, fit snugly and often appear matt or evenly smooth. Real nylons, on the other hand, are made of pure nylon without elastane. They hardly stretch at all and instead follow the natural shape of the leg.

The result is a special feel: light, cool on the skin and exceptionally elegant. The characteristic feature is not an artificial shine, but a fine, lively shimmer (“sheen”) that gently reflects the light and gives the leg depth and contour. This classic nylon look cannot be technically reproduced with modern tights. Many customers immediately notice a difference when they wear real nylon stockings for the first time. This difference is due to the material and the traditional manufacturing process.

Modern tights usually contain elastane or Lycra. As a result, they are very stretchy, fit snugly and often appear matt or evenly smooth. Real nylons, on the other hand, are made of pure nylon without elastane. They hardly stretch at all and instead follow the natural shape of the leg.

The result is a special feel: light, cool on the skin and exceptionally elegant. The characteristic feature is not an artificial sheen, but a fine, lively shimmer (“sheen”) that gently reflects the light and gives the leg depth and contour. This classic nylon look cannot be technically reproduced with modern tights. This fine nylon shimmer is still one of the unmistakable characteristics of classic fully fashioned stockings.

Many wearers therefore describe putting on real nylons as a conscious ritual – a moment of elegance that makes fashion history tangible.

Why do real nylons form small wrinkles and rustle slightly?

A typical feature of classic nylon stockings is the so-called wrinkling and the slight rustling of the material when moving. Neither is a quality defect, but a sign of genuine nylon manufacturing.

As real nylons are made of 100% nylon without elastane, they do not lie under tension on the leg like modern tights. Instead, the material follows the natural movement and shape of the body. This creates fine, lively folds that give the leg depth and character.

The subtle rustling is also caused by the special structure of the nylon yarn. This acoustic and visual interplay has been part of the unmistakable experience of classic nylon stockings since the 1940s and 1950s.

Many lovers appreciate precisely these characteristics, as they emphasize the authentic vintage look and are clearly different from modern, elastic hosiery.

Why do real nylons need a suspender belt?

Genuine nylon stockings contain no elastane and therefore cannot hold themselves on the leg. A garter belt ensures that the stockings sit securely and retain their elegant lines.

This method of wearing corresponds to the classic method used since the 1940s and 1950s and is an essential part of the authentic nylon experience. The suspender belt distributes the tension evenly and prevents slipping or creasing in unwanted places.

The quality of the suspender plays a decisive role here. Very simple models with only four plastic clips are often unable to hold the stockings in place evenly, causing the fit to change over the course of the day.

We recommend suspenders with at least six clips, as they distribute the weight better and provide a more stable hold. High-quality models also use durable metal components.

The suspender straps from Vicky’s Nylons are equipped with nickel-free metal clips and adjusters made in Germany. These ensure a reliable hold, high wearing comfort and are also suitable for sensitive skin.

A well-fitting suspender belt allows nylon stockings to unfold their full elegance and makes them noticeably more comfortable to wear.

Why do real nylons often look too long when you unpack them?

When you first take them out of the packaging, genuine nylon stockings often appear surprisingly long. This is completely normal and not an indication of an incorrect size.

Unlike modern tights, classic nylons contain no elastane and therefore hardly stretch at all. Instead of stretching a lot, they have a firmly defined volume and are only properly adjusted to the shape of the leg when you put them on.

As soon as the stocking is put on, the material is evenly distributed and the length adapts to the natural leg line. It is precisely this property that ensures the elegant fit and characteristic look of genuine fully fashioned nylons.

If you are unsure, we will be happy to advise you personally on your choice of size.

Care & wear

How do I wash real nylons properly?

Genuine nylon stockings should always be washed by hand. The fine nylon yarn is very durable, but requires gentle care to maintain its shape and surface.

We recommend lukewarm water with a mild detergent. The socks should be moved carefully, but not rubbed or wrung out.

After washing, gently squeeze out the nylons and leave to air dry. Direct heat, radiators or tumble dryers should be avoided as they can permanently damage the material.

With the right care, classic nylons retain their characteristic shimmer and elegant fit for a long time.

Should you freeze nylons to make them last longer?

Occasionally you hear the advice to freeze new nylon stockings before wearing them for the first time to make them more durable. This advice dates back to earlier times of nylon production and is based on the assumption that extreme cold stabilizes the fibres.

From today’s perspective, however, this effect is hardly verifiable. Modern nylon yarns are already thermally stabilized during production, so that freezing offers no measurable advantage in terms of durability.

Careful dressing, hand washing and avoiding rough surfaces or sharp fingernails are more important for a long service life.

If you want to freeze your nylons, there is no harm in doing so – but it is not necessary.

Today, the durability of real nylons is mainly due to quality, care and careful wearing – not unusual household remedies.

Can you wear real nylons every day?

Genuine nylon stockings can be worn every day without any problems, provided they are treated with care. High-quality nylons are more durable than many people assume, but require more careful handling than modern tights with elastane.

It is particularly important to put them on correctly. As the fine nylon yarn is sensitive to rough skin or small bumps, we recommend wearing gloves when putting them on. This prevents fingernails or dry skin from damaging the material.

For decades, putting on high-quality nylon stockings with gloves has been part of the classic care routine. Of course, we also have matching gloves and other helpful accessories in our range.

Regular hand washing and careful wearing also contribute significantly to their lifespan. Many wearers enjoy the light, elegant feeling of real nylons, especially in everyday life – a little moment of classic elegance in everyday life.

Are real nylons delicate or do they break easily?

Genuine nylon stockings are finer than modern tights and therefore feel particularly light and elegant. However, this does not mean that they are unusually delicate.

As classic nylons are made of pure nylon without elastane, they are more sensitive to sharp edges, rough skin or fingernails. However, with the right handling, they are surprisingly durable and can be worn for a long time.

Careful dressing – ideally with gloves – and gentle hand washing after wearing are crucial. Many wearers find that high-quality nylons last much longer than expected with careful care.

As with all fine textiles, quality and handling determine durability far more than material thickness.

Ordering, shipping & service

I have ordered the wrong size – what can I do?

Finding the right size for classic nylon stockings is sometimes not easy. If the size you ordered does not fit, we will be happy to help you.

Simply contact us by e-mail or telephone so that we can find a suitable solution together. An exchange for a different size is usually possible without any problems.

Why are opened nylons excluded from exchange?

For hygienic reasons, nylon stockings are sealed products. Each item is supplied with a hygiene seal that guarantees the integrity of the product.

In accordance with EU consumer protection law, there is no right of withdrawal for sealed goods that are not suitable for return for reasons of health protection or hygiene as soon as the seal has been removed or damaged.

Please check the size and model carefully before opening the packaging. As long as the hygiene seal is undamaged, we will of course be happy to assist you with exchanges or returns in accordance with the statutory provisions.

This is precisely why personal advice is so important at Vicky’s Nylons. We help you to find the right size and the right model before you order – so that you can enjoy wearing your nylons right from the start.