Nylon Stockings Day
Friday, May 15, 2026
From Laboratory to Sales Floor. Du. Pont targeted women's hosiery as nylon's debut market. American women purchased an average ofeight pairs of stockings per year, sending over $70 million annually to Japanese silk producers. On October 27, 1938, Du. Pont introduced the new fiber to 4,000 women at the future site of the New York World's Fair, then ran a limited trial sale in Wilmington, Delaware, in October 1939, where 4,000 pairs sold out in three hours.The national rollout arrived on May 15, 1940. Offered at $1.15 per pair, nylon stockings sold out at most stores by noon. In total, roughly four million pairs moved in four days. Du. Pont produced 2.6 million pounds of nylon that year, generating $9 million in sales, and the following year nylon yarn revenue reached $25 million
History
From Laboratory to Sales Floor. Du. Pont targeted women's hosiery as nylon's debut market. American women purchased an average ofeight pairs of stockings per year, sending over $70 million annually to Japanese silk producers. On October 27, 1938, Du. Pont introduced the new fiber to 4,000 women at the future site of the New York World's Fair, then ran a limited trial sale in Wilmington, Delaware, in October 1939, where 4,000 pairs sold out in three hours.The national rollout arrived on May 15, 1940. Offered at $1.15 per pair, nylon stockings sold out at most stores by noon. In total, roughly four million pairs moved in four days. Du. Pont produced 2.6 million pounds of nylon that year, generating $9 million in sales, and the following year nylon yarn revenue reached $25 million
How It's Celebrated
Nylon Stockings Day is observed by recognizing the importance of the day, learning about its background and significance, and sharing awareness with others through conversation and social media. Many people take time to reflect on the meaning of the observance and participate in relevant activities or community events.