‘Tis the season for ultra sheer hosiery. Black pantyhose is a bit heavy handed for spring time, so I’ve been breaking out some of the super sheer styles. I’m a pretty big fan of Hanes Silk Reflections, as I think they are a very nice meeting of looks, feel, durability, and price. I had high hopes for the Silk Reflections Transparent Sheer pantyhose.
Let me preface this by saying that I have noticed some serious inconsistencies between “batches” of this style. I’ve worn several pair, in both nude and black. These various pairs were purchased at different times and places. I’ve notices some slight variations in the fit and feel of the regular Silk Reflections, so, it comes as no surprise to me that the Transparent Sheer line had some inconsistencies too.
Fit: The yarn composition that is used to achieve the ultra sheer look also brings a problem: they hose just aren’t as stretchy as a more conventional sheer hosiery. They also tend to become slightly baggy around the knees and ankles. It seem that they have a higher nylon / spandex ratio than other hosiery.
Look: The nude pantyhose I have do a nice job of disappearing on my skin. They have a slight sheen to them that catches a bit of light. I kind of like it – your legs look bare, but.. just a bit better. That subtle shine gives your legs a little something extra that will keep people looking at you a second and third time.
Durability: I’m averaging about 2. 3 wears in these. That does bring the cost per wearing down quite a bit to around $3.30 per wearing.
Feel: These are the kind of pantyhose that give pantyhose a bad name. Although they actually look pretty good, they feel awful on your skin. When I say that they feel like burlap, I’m really not kidding. The nude pair were the worst offender. Some of my black pairs were less guilty of the offense. I even had one black pair that actually felt okay. Just OKAY though. I made it through a night out at the club wearing them without any complaints, but it wasn’t a particularly enjoyable experience, like the Pretty Polly 10 Denier Gloss Tights were. I was sad to take them off. Hanes, I don’t know what happened here, but the Silk Reflections Transparent Sheer are a flop – particularly when there are far superior hosiery offerings from the European hosiery mills. I know that you guys can do better than this.
Fit: 6.5
Feel: 3
Look: 7
Longevity: 8
Cost Per Wear: $3.30
Conclusion: When it comes to ultra sheer tights / pantyhose / stockings, There are far better alternatives to Hanes Silk Reflections Transparent Sheer. If I find that they have changed thier formula and put a better product out, I’ll let you know.
1 comment
Ditto … disappointing, at best.