Unveiled last month to buyers and retailers is the latest and very welcome innovation: plus size hosiery that really fits! With nearly half of the women in the UK above a size 14% (and 23% over a size 16) the demand for better fitting legwear was apparent but figures show that 51% of women never wear hosiery at all! (and this is due to fit). The new Xelence brand has been designed with a relaxed waistband in Light Shape (dress size 16-20), Medium Shape (dress size 22-26) and Full Shape (dress size 28-32). 4 styles of tights are offered (15 denier sheer, 30 denier semi-opaque, 50 denier opaque and fashion spot tight with two comfort top knee highs in 15 denier and 50 denier).
The range is designed using LYCRA® XCEPTIONELLE technology and accommodates differing body shapes and much larger thigh and body dimensions than conventional hosiery. It also helps prevent the garment digging in at the inner thighs and waist; a particular irritation for women when using standard hosiery products. 46% of Charnos Hosiery’s tights testers said things like; “I’ve tried hosiery time and time again, either the waistband ends up digging in, leaving unsightly red marks, or the length isn’t right.” Pleasing too that prices range from £3.50 for knee highs to £10 for fashion spot tights.
Available in store from November 2013, key buyers commented on the launch. Suzie Abel, Hosiery & Accessories Buyer of Jarrolds commented:
“A welcome addition to the hosiery offer. This will be appreciated by larger ladies as it offers such comfort and fit that has not been available before. They feel fabulous.”
Mandy Williams of leading independent department store, Williams & Griffins, was also enthusiastic:
“Larger sized customers have a huge degree of loyalty to brands that can offer a great fit. I am confident that Xelence will offer them a superior fit and comfort. Great product.”
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