What’s one thing most runway shows have in common? Have you ever realized the similarities across collections, across designers, across continents? One accessory piece in particular, is on nearly every catwalk but somehow flies under the radar of photographers and editors alike. For the fall and winter shows tights/nylons/hose (Whatever you call ‘em!) plaster most model’s legs. Give your outfit that extra oomf with these “look at me” patterned tights! Plus extra styling tips packed at the bottom!
The 3 categories of tights you need: Consider this your Earth, Wind, and Fire.
Updated Fishnets: According to pop culture they’re the only stockings worth your time. As seen in everything from sultry cabaret scenes (Exhibit A. J. Lo. in Hustlers. Exhibit B. Christina in Burlesque.), campy Rocky Horror, and the thrilling Great Gatsby. 2000s pop singer Avril Lavigne (hot take: she’s alive) even cut up fishnet stockings and made them into a punk version of the Billie Jean glove. Fishnets are the answer to anytime you want a little extra sex appeal, particularly on the legs. I mandate no occasion necessary for such action. And neither would Lizzo.
But buyer beware, not all fishnets fit the same. This time of year, go for a tighter knitted fishnet. Big gaping holes and rips don’t insulate your legs at all, plus a wider fishnet reads more Halloween costume than authentic streetwear.
There are also a variety of fishnet shapes. Who knew? Fishnets can also take on a floral print. This punk meets prep is the easiest way to hike lace up your leg. Art deco triangles and diamonds on nylons are a luxe way to make a plain LBD even more fierce. I know, if that’s even possible.
Tights are Made for Burnouts: Hear me out. Hearts, daisy dotted flowers, stars, anything you’d doodle in your composition books after a spelling test should be the semi-transparent print on your nylons. I’ve had heart ones since I was shopping at dEliA*s, and to this day whenever I wear them people stare at my legs like they’re some groundbreaking ish. Rookie to printed tights? A black on black polka dot tight that says hello from beneath your winter coat, is the easiest way to start out.
Check the Rearview: Though I hate to see you go, I’d love to watch you leave in a back only embellished tight. Pearls and gems up the seam, centered on your hamstring is the definition of fun legwear. A classic glossy pearl or gold heat seal studs are your best holiday options (Be careful with gemstones, they tend to look like arts & crafts gone wrong!). Wear with your ugly sweater and midi skirt to make the look less, well, ugly.
How to Style Tights with Wisdom: Whit Wis’ (and onions) if you will. Spending a full day out in the cold while still looking cute can sometimes feel more challenging than calculus. The best and most practical styling tip for tights on an outdoor day is to slide them under ankle pants for a fun surprise. #eyesdownplease
Standout in a sea of tights+dress or tights+skirt at all your holiday functions in a sleek tights+shorts getup. Sleek your hair into a ponytail or top knot if length allows. Minimize other accessories and anything with sequins that will pull at your tights. “I’m more polished than my nails” should be your ora.
Use the little guide on the back of the packages and buy the size that is at the crossroads of your height and weight. Each company has a slightly different sizing chart so you can’t really go through life saying: “Oh in tights? I’m a size B.” Modern tight companies like Sheertex (who has a tone of great burnout options, BTW) make shapewear tights that will tame thick thighs into a wonderland.
If you hate the hike up the leg, sheer thigh-high nylon have the same effect and can be rolled up. If you have sweaty feet syndrome, or are just one of those people who always wants to be wearing socks, take a move from ballerinas and go footless with tights that stop at the ankle. With boots on no one will know that your foot is loose.
Now let’s talk color. There are two rules: 1. You don’t have to commit yourself to only black patterned tights and 2. but please don’t pick a shade that will glow at Cosmic Bowling. The best colors to wear without looking like you’re an extra on an MTV video, are maroon & deep purple fit for Queen B. Navy is another great tight color because it is hardly different from your basic black. Such a subtle style flex.
Now that’s tight!
I bought some of those tights. Glad they work. Super fun style