The rules for wearing tights this winter, according to stylists

Tights are one of the most versatile pieces of clothing out there, but styling them can be a challenge.

“Tights add a touch of style without breaking the bank, proving that they deliver on both form and function in an instant. Chances are you’re not maximizing their full potential,” he said Elizabeth Kosicha certified image consultant and founder of Elizabeth Kosich Styling.

They also help extend the life of spring and summer favorites “well past their best-before dates,” Kosich added. Stylist Christina Krol agreed, saying she draws her inspiration from the Scandinavians: “Their motto is: ‘There is no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothes.’ They are experts in combining stylish tights for the winter.”

Here’s how to wear tights to create the look you’re going for, from elegant to cool, while staying warm and comfortable.

“The first rule of wearing pantyhose is that there are no rules,” Kosich said. “Because tights have such a wide range of colors, textures and patterns, it’s okay to push the boundaries,” she said. But there are some useful guidelines you can follow.

A tip is to choose tights that balance the color palette of your outfit. “Pair tights in a bright accent color if a dress is neutral, or a more subdued shade that grounds and balances if the dress is vibrant,” Kosich said.

Tights can be used to create the feeling you are going for. “Subtle patterns such as structured polka dots or delicate lace can take a simple dress to the next level, while fishnets add an edgier vibe,” says the stylist. Stephanie Venita Stimler.

“Tights give you the freedom with shorter hemlines” because they provide more coverage than bare legs, Kosich explained. They make it possible to “wear a micro mini or short shorts” even if you normally shy away from these styles or worry about staying warm when temperatures drop, she said.

“Keep it [mini skirts] premium and refined in wool, suede or leather materials, and tights should be a bold color or a tone-on-tone shade that adds texture to the composition of the outfit,” she advised.

Stylist Cassidy Montalvo she said loves the trend of tights with ‘baby doll style mini dresses and ballet flats – more of an ode to the 60s, but very feminine and chic.’

Tights have traditionally been an afterthought, but they can be the main attraction. “Use tights to create the focal point of an outfit that adds a pop of color, texture or both,” says Kosich.

She suggested wearing printed tights – “think floral, python, leopard” – to “add dimension to airy dresses.” Alternatively, “keep it minimal with plain, opaque tight pants in a vibrant jewel tone paired with a monochrome skirt,” she said.

Kroll recommended wearing skirts that “give room to show off” with tights because they can “make” an outfit, similar to accessories like accessorizing with purses and jewelry.

Kroll said Americans tend to shy away from wool tights because they think they are too itchy. She recommended looking for merino wool tights, which are a staple all winter long in Scandinavia. Kroll likes wool tights “that feel like a second skin and that you can wear under anything.”

Merino wool is made with thinner fibers and can actually drain moisture from your body and prevent you from sweating and overheating.

Tights don’t have to be a fashion statement; sometimes you just want to stay warm and put together an outfit. “If you’re looking for a nude shade, I would always go for an opaque style to ensure the color blends naturally and doesn’t stand out too much if the color differs from your skin tone,” stylist advised Kendra Sharpe. In addition, ‘fleece tights with a flesh-colored lining’ are ideal for very cold days, according to certified image consultant Amrita Harbajan.

It is also possible to remain neutral without going nude. “Neutral shades such as black, navy blue and gray are versatile and can complement a wide range of colors,” says Stimmler. Montalvo added that neutral tights have a “more professional look” and look tailored. She added that matching the color of your tights with your shoes will make your legs appear longer.

Almost any type of shoe can be worn with tights. Kroll loves high heels: “Combine a colorful heel with muted tights or vice versa: a muted heel color with colorful tights,” she advised. Another good option is low-cut boots that “allow room to show off flattering tights” and “look super chic” with skirts and sweaters, she said.

Kosich suggested going for “juxtapositions that create balance” and that are unusual. “The more unexpected the combination, the chicer,” she said. For example, “Go for sneakers with micro fishnets, combat boots with semi-transparent florals,” Kosich recommended. If those daring looks aren’t for you, she suggested going for more classic yet chic combinations like Mary Jane flats with oversized fishnets, velvet tuxedo slippers with back seamed tights, and classic tonal pumps. pindot stockings. ”

Sharpe said there are normally exceptions “A closed-toe shoe of any kind is the way to go.”