Pantyhose How to Figure Out Correct Size

Anonymous

In my younger working days I wore pantyhose almost everyday. I have not worn them in well over 15 years as I love wearing pants over dresses and skirts. My dilemma now is that I need to wear pantyhose with a dress I purchased for an important event (my DH requested - actually pleaded with me to get a dress instead of a pantsuit). I have absolutely no idea how to decipher sizing anymore. I am 5'7" and weigh 150 lbs and am not sure how to read the charts. Would it be better to size up rather than pick the size on the chart?

4 years ago

Dressing

10 replies

Latest reply was from

unfrumped

Veteran

I do think it can be hit or miss with different brands. In addition to what they call their sizing, some are just baggier bs stretchy than others, waist fit is different, various things.
I think you do have to start with size charts of height and weight on the back of each package. I have noticed that if I’m at the very top edge ( meaning about to have to size up) then the pantyhose might be even more of a struggle to get on, so I worry about tearing them. I prefer to size up when I’m on the border, but do risk the dreaded ankle wrinkles.
For very special occasions, I will test drive a pair in time to re- size or get a backup pair. If you’ve been out of the market for awhile you may want to experiment with a brand or 2 for size and color. The downside is it can get expensive.

4 years ago

Carla

Veteran

My experience is that hose run snug no matter what! I’m 5ft. 7in and 132 lbs. I almost always pick up Queen sized. They are snug enough without being constricting, and long enough in the legs (I have a long inseam.)

When the weather is warm, I eschew hose.

4 years ago

Anonymous

If they still make them, you can get the thigh high pantyhose. I like them better because I don’t have to worry about the fit on my waist or hips.

4 years ago

rachylou

Veteran

I’m with quinta on thigh highs…

4 years ago

cat2

Veteran

If you post what shape you are, someone with a similar shape can suggest brands.

4 years ago

kkards

Veteran

Ditto what unfrumped said. I’f I have to wear them I test drive a brand (or 2) before hand, if I’m on the cusp I might size up, otherwise I go buy the chart. I never ever wear control top, but that’s a personal thing.

4 years ago

Anonymous

I read once that you should size up because stockings last longer that way. My legs and frame are very slender, so I usually go by the size cart, going up a size if I am anywhere near the border line in sizing. I also seem to be a higher-than-normal rise, another reason to size up.

The article said that every woman should wear Queen sizes in stockings, but these were definitely too big for me. They found a home with my size regular Large sister. If you are curvy or tall, size up for sure. If you are slims and petite, use the size guide. Try to match your skin tone with a matte stocking. Avoid anything too shiny. I like knee highs if they stay up and are long enough, Because if one gets a run you can use one from another pair. Also they are cooler in summer.
Rant: The shades available have dwindled over the years. If anyone can find taupe or light grey sheer stockings, let me know.

4 years ago

Barbara Diane

Veteran

I carry more of my weight on my bottom half so I tend to size up as the weight portion of the chart may not reflect my figure.

4 years ago

DonnaF

Veteran

Consider your proportions (leg length) and where you carry your weight and whether you are getting control top or not. I am short with proportionately short heavy legs so I err to the larger size. Years ago I would buy Nordstrom Rack ultra sheer control tops which I really liked. I detest control tops and these had virtually none.

Maybe you can buy hose with reviews so you can find out ahead of time about their sizing. I was going to say how they run. . .

4 years ago

Anonymous

Thanks for all your replies. I actually found several packages of Hanes Silk Reflections pantyhose that I bought most likely 20 years ago. Size C and they just fit - snuggly. So I think I will go for the Queen Size to give me some wiggle room. 20 years back I was about 130 lbs (where did those 20 lbs come from??), but I have long legs and that is why I went with size C. Queen should be fine (going to the store this Friday) and it will only be worn a few hours before I take them off. Thanks again!

4 years ago

Category