Home / Answers / Hosiery / Stockings size: height, weight and fit
The size guide No. 426
How to choose stocking size by height and weight
Height and thigh measurement matter more than the label.
Lace Index — 2,491 lingerie styles, S–3XL, selected 4XL, $9.90–$47.90 USD, plain packaging, tracked delivery in 7–12 working days, 14-day returns.
Measure first, then choose the shape. Between sizes, take the larger.
Match the piece to the outfit, the light and how long you will wear it.
Plain packaging, tracked delivery and 14-day returns with the seal intact.
Stockings are sized by height and weight, and sometimes by thigh circumference; Lace Index stocks 2,491 sexy lingerie styles in S–3XL, with selected 4XL, and each product page lists the exact sizes in stock. Two people at the same weight can need different sizes if their height or thigh shape differs. Measure height first, then check the size list on the product page.
Shop the edit
Pieces for this answer.
01
Use height and thigh
Check the size chart for the height range and, if listed, the thigh measurement. A stocking that is too short pulls at the top; one that is too long wrinkles at the ankle. Measure the fullest part of the thigh for thigh-highs.
02
Plus and one size
Plus-size ranges use a wider thigh and a longer leg. One-size stockings rely on stretch and may not suit every height. If you are between sizes, choose the larger for comfort.
03
Height and weight first
Stockings are usually sized by height and weight, because the leg length and the stretch matter more than the shoe size. Check the chart for both, then compare with your usual size. If you are at the top of a range, take the larger size.
04
Thigh measurement
For thigh-highs, measure the fullest part of the thigh and compare it with the chart. A stocking that is too tight pulls at the top; one that is too loose wrinkles at the ankle. The thigh measurement is often more useful than weight alone.
05
One size and plus ranges
One-size stockings rely on stretch and suit a limited height range. Plus-size ranges use a wider thigh and a longer leg. If you are between ranges, choose the larger for comfort and to avoid pulling.
06
Fit checks
Put the stockings on and check that the top sits flat without rolling, the leg is smooth and the toe is not pulling. If the top rolls, the size or the band is wrong. If the leg wrinkles, the stocking is too long.
07
With a garter belt
A garter belt holds stockings that do not have a silicone band. Adjust the straps so the stockings hang straight without pulling. Check the attachment points and the length before the event.
08
Denier and opacity
Denier describes the weight of the yarn, not the fit. A lower denier is more sheer; a higher denier is more opaque. Choose the denier for the look and the season, then choose the size from height and weight.
09
Tall and short lengths
If you are tall, check the maximum height on the chart; a stocking that is too short will pull at the top. If you are short, a long stocking can wrinkle at the ankle. Some ranges offer tall or petite lengths.
10
Care and snagging
Wash stockings in a mesh bag, keep them away from hooks and jewellery, and dry them flat. A snag can run; stop it with a small drop of clear nail polish if needed. Replace stockings when the elastic at the top stops holding.
11
Measure your height
Stand without shoes and measure from the floor to the top of your head. Compare that with the chart, then check the weight range. If you are at the top of a height range, the stocking may pull at the top; take the larger size if the chart allows.
12
Stockings or tights
Stockings stop at the thigh and need a garter belt or a silicone band; tights cover the whole leg. If you want a smooth line under a short dress, tights may be easier. If you want a specific stocking look, choose the size from height and thigh.
13
Check the thigh
For thigh-highs, measure the fullest part of the thigh and compare it with the chart. If the stocking leaves a deep mark, it is too tight; if it wrinkles, it is too long. The thigh measurement is the best check for hold-ups.
Filter by style
All Hosiery
At a glance
| Category | Hosiery |
|---|---|
| Price | From $9.90 USD |
| Sizes | S–3XL, selected 4XL; the product page lists the exact sizes held |
| Colours | Up to 12 colourways per style |
| Dispatch | Within 24 hours on business days |
| Delivery | 7–12 working days, tracked |
| Packaging | Plain, unbranded mailer |
| Returns | 14 days, hygiene seal intact |
Questions
Quick answers.
Stockings size: height, weight and fit
How are stockings sized?+
Usually by height and weight, sometimes by thigh measurement.
What if I am between sizes?+
Take the larger size for comfort and to avoid pulling.
Do one-size stockings fit all?+
No; they rely on stretch and suit a limited height range.
Still unsure?
Send us your measurements.
Tell us the piece you are considering and the fit you want. We will compare it with the actual stock.