Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.I've always resisted hold-up hosiery; fears of Norma Batty wrinkle and all that. So I was pleasantly surprised that my stay-up stockings proved effective "cosmetics for legs" when I wore them to the office. Sprouting hairs and goose pimples were sleekly covered with a smooth, neutral-looking "tan". And my stay-ups felt strong, too: I didn't fear that they were going to ladder if I so much as moved.
But for "evening" wear, they were a dismal failure. The first turn-off for me was one glance at the "lacy" bit that clings to the thigh. Rather than looking seductive, each leg appeared to be wrapped in a skinned gerbil of that muted beige colour reminiscent of granny's underwear. Rather than giggling "surprise surprise" (as one lifts one's skirt up), if you were wearing these on a hot date, you would have to encourage your paramour with a "Hey, look over there!" while you whipped the damned things off.
After my first night out, I thought of issuing a hint to stocking makers that they should top their hold-ups with cheeky red lace, or white or black, and cheer things up a bit.
But by day two I had realised why one wouldn't want to draw attention to these stocking tops. You see, having held up so well at first, they suddenly decided to show themselves in broad daylight.
It had started out OK. After a quick rinse in the sink, the second time I wore them they were cosy and tight, until at 4pm my gerbil tops emitted a rubbery squeak, then a ping! Next, one stocking was at my knees, soon to be followed by the other one. Quickly bored of tugging them up, I just let things lie at work. I was wearing a long skirt so no one was any the wiser. They were, though, when I got off my homeward train. I looked down to see two entire stockings sitting on my shoes.
ESTHER OXFORD
Levante Hold-Ups, 26 per cent Lycra, 14 denier, pounds 5.99, at major department stores.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments