Oh, Pretty Polly! Just the name brings back a flood of memories. As someone who has worn their products extensively, particularly in my younger years, I’m thrilled to share my insights about this iconic British hosiery brand.
A Rich History
Pretty Polly’s story begins in 1919 in Sutton-in-Ashfield, Nottinghamshire. The brand’s quirky name comes from a racehorse that won founders Harry Hibbert and Oswald Buckland a significant sum, allowing them to start the company. Over a century later, Pretty Polly remains a household name in British hosiery.
My Journey with Pretty Polly
I first encountered Pretty Polly as a teenager in the 1970s. Their vibrant packaging and affordable prices made them an attractive choice for a young woman experimenting with fashion. Little did I know then that Pretty Polly would become a staple in my wardrobe for decades to come.
Product Range
Pretty Polly offers an extensive range of hosiery and lingerie products. Here are some categories I’ve had personal experience with:
Tights
From sheer to opaque, patterned to plain, Pretty Polly’s tights have been a constant in my life. Their 80 denier opaque tights saw me through many a cold winter in my university days. The “Nylons” range, with its retro seam, was a particular favourite for evenings out.
Stockings and Hold-ups
As I grew older and more daring, Pretty Polly’s stockings and hold-ups became my go-to for special occasions. The “Curves” range of hold-ups, introduced in later years, was a godsend for those of us with more generous thighs.
Knee Highs and Socks
Perfect for work and casual wear, Pretty Polly’s knee highs were a staple in my office attire throughout the 1980s and 1990s.
Shapewear
In recent years, I’ve appreciated Pretty Polly’s venture into shapewear. Their “Bum, Tum & Thigh” tights offer gentle smoothing without feeling restrictive.
Innovation and Trends
One thing I’ve always admired about Pretty Polly is their ability to innovate and keep up with trends:
- In the 1960s, they were quick to embrace the miniskirt trend with shorter stockings.
- The 1990s saw them collaborate with fashion designers like Henry Holland, bringing high fashion to the high street.
- More recently, their eco-friendly “Biodegradable” tights have shown their commitment to sustainability.
Quality and Durability
In my experience, Pretty Polly has always offered good value for money. While not the most luxurious brand on the market, their products have consistently provided a good balance of quality and affordability. I’ve had pairs of their opaque tights last for years with proper care.
Comfort Factor
Comfort has always been a strong point for Pretty Polly. I particularly appreciate the wide waistbands on many of their tights, which prevent the dreaded ‘roll down’ effect. Their “Soft and Silky” range feels wonderful against the skin, almost like a second skin.
Style Evolution
It’s been fascinating to watch Pretty Polly evolve stylistically over the years. From the bold, colorful patterns of the 1960s and 70s to the sleek, minimalist designs of the 2000s, they’ve always had a finger on the pulse of fashion trends. Their collaboration with Henry Holland in the 2010s brought a fresh, youthful energy to the brand.
Size Inclusivity
One area where I’ve seen significant improvement is in size inclusivity. The introduction of the “Curves” range was a welcome addition, catering to a broader range of body types. As someone whose body has changed over the years, I’ve appreciated this evolution.
Memorable Moments
I have countless fond memories associated with Pretty Polly:
- Wearing their sparkly tights to my first school disco in the 1970s.
- The comfort of their opaque tights during long days at university.
- Feeling glamorous in their seamed stockings at my 25th wedding anniversary celebration.
Areas for Improvement
While I’m generally a fan, there are areas where Pretty Polly could improve:
- Expanding their eco-friendly range further.
- Offering more options in terms of skin tone matches.
- Improving the durability of some of their sheerer styles.
Pretty Polly Today
Today, Pretty Polly continues to be a major player in the hosiery market. They’ve adapted well to the digital age, with a user-friendly website and active social media presence. It’s heartening to see a brand I’ve loved for so long continuing to thrive and evolve.
Pretty Polly has been a constant companion throughout my life, from my teenage years to the present day. While my style and needs have changed over the years, Pretty Polly has always had something to offer. Their blend of affordability, comfort, and style makes them a go-to brand for many, including myself.
Whether you’re a long-time fan like me or new to the world of hosiery, Pretty Polly offers something for everyone. They’re a testament to British craftsmanship and innovation in the hosiery industry, and I look forward to seeing what they’ll come up with next.
Official website: https://www.prettypolly.co.uk/
