Fishnets

Fishnets

Fishnets were originally worn only by questionable women in dark, dank bars, but in the ‘20s they were brought out into the light by intrepid flappers. Marlene Dietrich made these all the rage. They are most powerful when just a little flicker of the fishnet is shown (a few inches at the knee, a centimeter at the peep toe). Teasing with fishnets is incredibly sexy and intriguing. It makes one wonder what else is underneath. A little bit of Marlene Dietrich? A touch of Dita Von Teese? But if the entire leg of fishnets is showing with too short a skirt and too high of heel, all the intrigue is gone. We all know what kind of woman that is. And you don’t want to be her.

Going Fishin’

Fishnets are supersexy when done right, supertawdry when done wrong. To stay on the right side of the line, make sure you:
Choose a fine mesh.

Pair with sophisticated clothing.

Try it in a nude.

Don’t let too much show. A peel of fishnet at the ankle, when you are wearing tailored trousers, can go much further than showing an entire leg of fishnet with high heels and short skirt. Try a blouse with a pencil skirt or pants and a flicker of fishnets at the feet. Keep it between an eighth and a quarter of an inch. The smaller, the better.

The One Hundred a Guide to the Pieces Every Stylish Woman Must Own by Nina Garcia