The Evolution and Endurance of Pantyhose on Concert Stages

Pantyhose, a garment that has graced the legs of women for decades, has a rich history, a variety of materials, and a curious place in contemporary concert black attire. Despite falling out of favor in casual wear, pantyhose remain a staple in certain professional dress codes required by symphony orchestras, concert bands, and choirs. This blog post delves into the origins of pantyhose, explores the different materials used over the years, and examines why this garment persists in some workplaces —including performance stages— today.

The History of Pantyhose

Early Beginnings

Pantyhose, as we know them today, evolved from the stockings and worn by men starting in the Middle Ages. Often, stockings were held up by garters, a less-than-ideal solution that was often uncomfortable and impractical. The quest for a more convenient and comfortable alternative led to the development of pantyhose.

The Invention of Pantyhose

The modern pantyhose was invented by Allen Gant Sr. in 1959. Gant, inspired by his wife's discomfort with traditional garter belts during pregnancy, developed a garment that combined panties and stockings into one piece. This innovation provided women with a more comfortable and practical option for legwear, quickly gaining popularity in the 1960s.

Rise to Popularity

Pantyhose became a fashion staple in the 1960s and 1970s, coinciding with the rise of the miniskirt. Women needed a seamless, comfortable way to cover their legs while wearing shorter skirts, and pantyhose provided the perfect solution. The introduction of sheer nylon pantyhose further boosted their popularity, as they offered a sleek, polished look that complemented the fashion trends of the time.

Materials Used in Pantyhose

Early Materials

The earliest stockings were made from wool, silk, and cotton. These materials, while functional, lacked the stretch and durability of modern synthetic fibers. With the invention of nylon in 1939 by DuPont, a new era of hosiery began. Nylon revolutionized the hosiery industry with its elasticity, strength, and smooth texture.

The Nylon Era

Nylon became the material of choice for pantyhose in the mid-20th century. Its properties made it ideal for creating sheer, form-fitting hosiery that was both comfortable and durable. Nylon pantyhose were also easier to manufacture, making them more affordable and accessible to a broader range of consumers.

Modern Materials

Today, pantyhose are made from a variety of synthetic fibers, including nylon, spandex, and polyester. These materials offer improved stretch, comfort, and durability compared to earlier options. Modern pantyhose often include blends of these fibers to achieve the desired balance of fit and feel. Additionally, advancements in textile technology have led to the development of pantyhose with features such as moisture-wicking, compression, and control top designs.

The Persistence of Pantyhose in the Workplace

Professional Appearance

Despite the decline in the popularity of pantyhose in everyday fashion, they continue to hold a place in dress codes of professional music ensembles like orchestras. One reason for their persistence is the perception of pantyhose as part of a polished, professional appearance. For many musicians, particularly those with formal dress codes, wearing pantyhose is seen as a sign of professionalism and black hose in particular reduce the amount of skin seen on stage which many consider distracting during performances. 

Uniform Requirements

In some workplaces, pantyhose are a mandatory part of the uniform. This is especially common in industries such as hospitality, aviation, and concert stages, where employees are expected to adhere to strict dress codes. Pantyhose provide a uniform look and ensure that all employees present a consistent, professional image.

Perceptions of Modesty and Formality

Pantyhose can also contribute to a perception of modesty and formality, which is important in certain professional performing contexts. For example, in conservative performing venues where a more traditional appearance is valued, pantyhose can help convey a sense of propriety and respectability.

Panty Hose on Stage Today

Most women opt for black knee-highs over the traditional hose that go all the way up to the waist since knee-high stockings are more comfortable and less restrictive overall. Additionally knee-high hose generally keep musicians cooler under hot stage lights than waist-to-toe tights.

And luckily, it's not hard to find formal black skirts without a slit, like this one,  so that no one sees the top of your knee-highs!

Pantyhose have a fascinating history, evolving from practical leg coverings to a fashion staple and a professional necessity for performing musicians. Despite changes in fashion trends, pantyhose persist in certain workplaces due to their association with professionalism, uniformity, and modesty. Whether for their sleek appearance, practical benefits, or cultural significance, pantyhose continue to be an important element of women's fashion and professional attire.

Share Your Style

Now, go forth and dazzle them not only with your music but with an all-black ensemble that hits all the right notes! And don’t forget to share your favorite concert black looks by tagging us @BlackstradConcertAttire for a chance to be featured and inspire others. Break a leg!