A stocking, sometimes referred to as hose, is a close-fitting, variously elastic garment covering the foot and lower part of the leg. Stockings vary in color and transparency. By analogy, the term is also used to describe a type of horse marking in which the white coloring extends from the horse's hoof to just above the knee.
Functionality of Stockings
In modern usage, stocking specifically refers to the form of women's hosiery configured as two pieces, one for each leg. The term hold-ups and thigh highs refers to stockings that stay up on their own, while the word stockings is the general term or refers to the kind of stockings that need a suspender belt (garter belt, in American English), and are quite distinct from tights or pantyhose (American English). Thigh highs are often perceived as preferable to pantyhose for various reasons, such as:
- Aesthetics-garters, lace, top fashion, applique, exposure of the thigh, complexity (though it is possible to make tights with fake stocking tops near the top of the legs)
- Easier and quicker access to the genital area-enhances sexual spontaneityMessage-as more detail is involved, a perception of erotic intent is raised
- Health and cleanliness-less sweat, more ventilation; reduction of fungal and bacterial challenge
- Personal convenience-it is considerably easier and quicker to go to the toilet while wearing stockings