Thigh High Socks: What Are They?

The name, of course, explains essentially what these fun accessories are, but what really defines thigh high socks?

Often abbreviated simply as "thigh highs", thigh high socks typically cover the foot, ankle, and calf entirely. The ending point of thigh high socks can vary, with some ending just below, directly on, or just above the knee. Typically, the material will be thicker, blended or joined with an elastic strip or stitching so that the wearer can comfortably move around without restriction or concern that their socks will slip or bunch at the ankles.

Thigh high socks are often grouped in with knee-high socks, and the terms are used interchangeably frequently. Knee high socks, however, usually do not extend beyond the bottom of the knee, where thigh highs typically do. Both styles can be used for the same application, the end result on which to choose lies squarely with the preferences of the wearer!

Materials and Where to Wear
Thigh highs socks can be made of almost any clothing material, but are typically made from a pantyhose-like mesh or cotton, as used in traditional socks. Unlike regular socks, however, most thigh high socks are thinner, lighter, and more flexible, which is great news for comfort lovers. This thinner construction allows for decorations and colorful patterns that thick socks, which generally can only be knitted by machines or by hand, can't match. For instance, it would be rather hard to pick up a pack of tie-dyed athletic socks at the store!

Mesh material thigh high socks are appropriate for business use, in which a wearer could enjoy the polished look of stockings without the unsightly lines and constrictive tendencies of pantyhose. Thigh high socks won't interfere with bathroom breaks, and, because there is usually less tension on them by design than hose, runs aren't as common a problem.

These mesh thigh high socks are also sold as accessories for lingerie, in which they are often embellished with small gems, saucy mottos, or even faux ribbon lacing and held on the wearer's legs with elastic or via a traditional garter belt. Pin-up style enthusiasts have driven a recent wave of popularity for "backseam" or "cuban heel" thigh high socks, which feature a thin, darker line that traces the back of the leg and ends in a colored heel, in the latter term. These are usually worn with a garter belt for a truly authentic vintage feel.

Non-mesh, or cotton thigh high socks, are a popular fashion choice with young women looking for a unique style. These can range from wild and unusual patterns like tiny skulls or words, to a traditional pattern like argyle jazzed up with metallic threading or gems. New innovations include a truly unique leather buckle top on some striped models and exotic wools like alpaca and angora woven into the cotton for softness.

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Thigh High Socks
How to find the best thigh high socks: useful tips and advice to choose the product that best suits your needs.

Thigh High Socks: Different Styles and Uses
Thigh high socks in athletics, costumed capers, health benefits of supportivemodels.

Where Thigh High Socks Shine
Thigh high socks are an excellent solution for fashionable girls who want a little color on their ankles but can't wear regular socks with their shoes.

Care and Cleaning of Thigh High Socks
As with any garment, thigh high socks will likely come with manufacturer's laundering instructions on the package or a tag inside the hem.

Where to Buy
Find the best selection of thigh high socks at the lowest prices

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