A close-up of a shimmering nylon fabric, elegantly draped, showcasing intricate textures and colors, captured in natural lighting with a soft focus background

National Nylon Stocking Day is an annual celebration that honors the iconic fashion accessory: nylon stockings. This day commemorates the introduction of nylon stockings to the public and their significant impact on fashion and society.

Quick Facts

  • When is it?: May 15th
  • Tagged as: Fashion, History, Innovation
  • What’s the hashtag?: #NylonStockingDay or #NationalNylonStockingDay
  • When was it founded?: May 15, 1940
  • Who founded it?: DuPont Company

History of National Nylon Stocking Day

National Nylon Stocking Day traces its origins to May 15, 1940, when DuPont first introduced nylon stockings to the public. This revolutionary synthetic fiber changed the fashion landscape, making stockings more affordable and accessible to women across all social classes. The day marks a significant milestone in fashion history, celebrating the blend of technology and style that nylon stockings represent.

Timeline

  • 1935: DuPont develops nylon, the first entirely synthetic fiber
  • 1939: Nylon is invented
  • May 15, 1940: Nylon stockings are first sold to the public
  • 1941-1945: Nylon production is redirected for war efforts during World War II
  • 1945: Nylon stocking production resumes after the war, leading to high demand and even “nylon riots”

Dates by Next Year

YearMonthDateDay
2025May15Thursday
2026May15Friday
2027May15Saturday
2028May15Monday
2029May15Tuesday
2030May15Wednesday

How It’s Observed

People celebrate National Nylon Stocking Day in various ways:

  • Wearing nylon stockings or pantyhose
  • Organizing fashion shows featuring nylon stockings
  • Sharing photos of favorite nylon stocking styles on social media
  • Learning about the history and impact of nylon in fashion
  • Gifting nylon stockings to friends or loved ones

Fun Facts About Nylon Stockings

  1. The name “nylon” is rumored to have originated from “nuron,” which is “no run” spelled backward.
  2. When first introduced, 4 million pairs of nylon stockings sold out within just four days.
  3. During World War II, women used makeup and even gravy to create the illusion of wearing stockings.
  4. The shortage of nylon stockings during WWII contributed to the popularity of women wearing pants.
  5. After WWII, the demand for nylon stockings was so high that it led to “nylon riots” in some cities.

Quiz

  1. In what year were nylon stockings first sold to the public?
  2. What company invented nylon?
  3. What did women use to create the illusion of stockings during WWII?

(Answers: 1. 1940, 2. DuPont, 3. Makeup and even gravy)

FAQs

Q: Do women still wear nylon stockings today?
A: Yes, nylon stockings are still popular and widely used in fashion.

Q: How long does it take for nylon stockings to decompose?
A: It takes approximately 30-40 years for nylon stockings to decompose.

Q: What are some popular types of nylon stockings?
A: Popular types include sheer, opaque, patterned, and control-top varieties.

Related

  • National Pantyhose Day
  • Hosiery Appreciation Week
  • Vintage Fashion Day
  • Synthetic Fiber Innovation Day
  • Women’s Fashion History Month