Nylons

Nylons first were available in May 1940. Nylon stockings replaced the traditional silk stockings because they were more durable and easier to maintain. In just two days, four million pairs were gone. It was a given that customers adored them. Then, in December 1941, they suddenly disappeared. To create parachutes and other products for the war effort, nylon was required.

There wouldn't be any left at home for the legs. As a result, there was a thriving black market where one shipment of stolen nylons might fetch $100,000. Literally, homes were being robbed to obtain nylons. 18 pairs of shoes were reportedly stolen from one Louisianan home. Prior to the war, black market pairs cost $1.15 but now cost $20.

You simply need to look at what happened after the war to realize how cherished nylon was among American women. When nylons were once again available and the rationing was repealed in 1945, chaos broke out. Around the stores, there were lines of ladies a thousand deep. In Pittsburgh, 40,000 ladies attended to purchase 13,000 pairs.