The extroardinary wearing comfort of this stocking is due to the fact that though it doesn’t float neither does it bind the thigh at the level of the welt which must be supple so as not to hinder the elasticity of the garter (suspender). This also where the size of the welt comes into play. The welt is the hem at the tip of the stocking knit in heavier denier yarn and folded double to give strength for supporter fastening. The wide welt provides ample space to fix the fastening to.

This is why Past Perfect features this classic welt. The classic welt, clearly separating the stocking from the thigh is in itself extremely pleasing to the eye. It’s the complement of the afterwelt, which is the area knitted just below the welt and which is made of the same yarn as the welt and is only one layer thick.

The most distinctive characteristic of a fully-fashioned stocking is the reinforced heel, which reaches up the Achilles heel. Some seamed pantyhose, as well as some stockings imitating fully-fashioned stockings by the means of a mock seam also imitate the reinforced heel. But all doubt is removed by a simple examination of the calf. Fully-fashioned stockings are knitted flat, and the two sides are united afterwards by a seam up the back. As a result of decreasing stitches over the calf making the hose narrower at the ankle, small fashion markings or loops are visible running parallel to either side of the seam. If there are none, it’s a fake.

Made of the same heavier yarn as the welt to lengthen durability, the sole is always narrow and permits the fully-fashioned stocking to be worn with open shoes or sandals without being seen on either side of the foot.