Woman wearing a pair of BLACK SEAMED HOLD-UPS

Seamed Hold Ups: Classic vs Statement Styles

Written by: Abbie Quinn

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Time to read 3 min

Choosing Your Seamed Hold Ups

A back seam changes the entire look of hosiery. The question isn’t whether to wear one — it’s how bold you want that line to be.


Some seamed hold ups are clean and timeless. Others are designed to draw the eye. Here’s how our collection breaks down, so you can choose the right style for you.

BS165 – The Classic Straight Seam


This is the reference point.


Sheer black with a clean, straight back seam and traditional lace top. No contrast. No graphic detailing. Just a sharp, elongating line that does exactly what a seam is meant to do.


If you want something timeless, flattering and easy to wear, this is where you start.

BAL553 – The Elevated Classic


Still classic. Just sharper.


Like BS165, this keeps the traditional straight back seam and sheer black leg. The difference is in the detail. The ornate upper thigh design adds subtle drama without turning it into a full statement piece.


If you like the structure of a classic seam but want something more refined, this sits right in the middle.

BS162 – The Contrast Seam


This is where classic becomes deliberate.


The sheer black leg keeps the shape familiar. The bold red back seam changes the mood completely. Instead of a subtle line, the seam becomes the focal point.


Compared to BAL553, this isn’t about refinement. It’s about contrast. The colour draws the eye and sharpens the silhouette from behind.


If you want your seamed hold ups to be noticed rather than understated, this is the shift.

BS161 – The Graphic Statement


This is no longer about subtlety.


The seam isn’t just a straight line. The added detailing transforms it from classic hosiery into a deliberate design feature. It draws the eye, changes the silhouette and feels far more fashion-led.


Compared to BS162, this isn’t just contrast. It’s structure and pattern working together.


If you want your seamed hold ups to feel bold and intentional, this is where you go next.

BAL569 – The Full Statement Seam


This is where subtlety ends.


The seam isn’t just a line — it’s part of a complete design. The added detailing creates movement down the leg and turns the back view into the focal point.


Compared to BS161, this pushes further. More decoration. More presence. Less restraint.


If you want your seamed hold ups to feel bold and unmistakable, this is the strongest statement in the collection.

BAL561-The Vintage Contrast


This shifts the focus.


Instead of black-on-black, the nude leg makes the seam more defined without adding colour. It feels vintage, deliberate and sharply structured.


Compared to the bold statement styles, this is more restrained — but still unmistakably a seam.


If you love classic glamour with a stronger silhouette, this is a confident choice.

BAL527 – The Structured Statement


This seam is about precision.


The detailing adds shape without overwhelming the leg, keeping the silhouette clean while still making an impact. It’s more defined than a classic seam, but more controlled than a full decorative design.


Compared to 569 this feels sharper and more streamlined.


If you want something bold but balanced, this sits in the middle.

BAL430 – The Defined Statement


This style sharpens the seam.


The detailing adds structure and depth without overpowering the leg. It keeps the back line clear and deliberate, but introduces just enough design to make it stand apart from a traditional straight seam.


Compared to BAL527, this feels slightly bolder and more directional. Compared to BAL569, it’s more controlled and refined.


If you want something that sits confidently between classic and full drama, BAL430 is a strong choice.

BAL525 – The Confident Finish


This style keeps the seam sharp and defined, but with a stronger visual presence than a traditional straight line.


It’s bold without being overworked. Structured without being heavy. A clear step up from classic, but not as ornate as the full statement designs.


If you want a seam that feels intentional and modern, this is a strong way to finish.

So, Classic or Statement?


A straight seam will always be timeless. Clean. Structured. Easy to wear.


A contrast or graphic seam changes the energy completely. It’s deliberate. Designed to be seen.


The right choice isn’t about trend. It’s about how much presence you want that line to have.


Explore the full collection below and find the seam that suits you.


Abbie Investigates – Lingerie Expert Reviews


Abbie explores the world of lingerie so you don’t have to. From luxury lace sets to everyday essentials, I test, review, and recommend pieces to help you find lingerie that makes you feel confident, elegant, and playful.


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