The inspiration for this piece is, without a doubt, burlesque. With its huge revival throughout the country, the style of early 20th century striptease dance is making a fierce comeback. And you'll need these for it!

I've been performing burlesque for a few years now and have encountered some of the most gorgeous, ornate and over-the-top costumes constructed by genius artisans (usually the performers themselves). When I whipped out this pair of fringed fishnet hose, a burlyq veteran and professional costume designer demanded to know from where they were obtained. So they pass the test for legitimacy, to say the least.

This pantyhose is more than just a standard pair of red fishnets with some fringe. A lovely wide lace design circumnavigates the waist and also decorates down the center between the legs from front to back. But that's not all: the lace is separated for 2-3 inches just in the crotch area to allow for easy access to the goods. So if you want to give someone access, you're all set. If you don't: toss on a thong (ideally flesh tone or fire engine red to match) underneath.

All along the bottom of the lace that wraps around the waist dangles delightful red fringe that is about 2 inches long. It adds a nice flair to the look: almost skirt-like. You make make use of it by sashaying around, shaking your hips and letting the bright color and fringe draw the eye even more than usual!

While I wore my pair a few times they were not put through an arduous test of endurance. So while my pair remain perfectly intact, I suspect the longevity of these hose is not inordinate. The fishnet itself is sturdy but not the type of industrial strength needed to survive a catch on a corner. They will probably run, like most other hose. And the fringe is simply cut sections of string and will fray eventually, especially if washed too roughly. Obviously this can not be machine dried. I would suggest hand washing and hanging to dry.

Another important point, just in case it wasn't immediately apparent: due to the fringe, this can't be worn under just anything. Whatever is on top of the hose has to provide good coverage: be a little loose and or the fabric has to be thick... so you don't have awkward bunching or fringe sticking out at weird angles from your waist band. If you plan to wear this at home: come on out wearing a robe, for instance, for a smooth reveal.

Continue to be high quality and attractive. With repeated wear, there are some issues with snags that turn into long epic strings that require careful cutting so they don't unravel too far. Sometimes I wish they weren't crotchless, since it would increase the utility for burlesque and gogo, but if you're looking for easy access, it's hard to beat.