As a kid growing up in the Bay Area of California, my mom had a rule: If we were going into the city (how she referred to San Francisco), we were dressing up. It was a habit passed on to her from her own mother. For shopping trips, special-occasion lunches, and even getting on an airplane, my mother believed in putting on your best for the occasion. At nine years old, being told I had to put on a fussy dress, a pair of tights, and pinchy leather Mary Janes might lead to a full-on meltdown. As an adult, though, I see that perhaps my mom was right. Dressing up holds its own sort of power—it signals that you care and that you put effort into whatever it is you’re attending.
Around New York, I’ve seen many women this winter utilize a pair of tights as a way to transform a simple, everyday outfit into something more purposeful, whether by adding in a playful touch of color, or serving as contrast to casual staples. Red tights have been a particularly buzzed-about choice, but black, white, and even fishnet tights are all fair game when it comes selecting your tights of choice. When you’re wearing a favorite skirt or dress, and the outfit just isn’t hitting in quite the way you hoped, consider how a pair of tights may be just the thing to transform your entire look. Ahead, you'll find five outfit ideas for how to style tights to perfection.
If you're ever asking yourself how to style tights, don't underestimate the power of a pair of fishnets with a blazer. The textured look adds a tactile touch to a look built on streamlined basics.
These fishnets come in a range of skin tones.
An oversize blazer is a wardrobe staple.
You'll find so many ways to wear these kitten heels.
This basic is one you'll rely on.
A touch of maroon adds elegance.
A black dress and matching flats on their own may seem like a basic ensemble, but add a pair of colored tights and suddenly the whole ensemble feels surprising and bold. You can also use a coordinated pastel purse to add another level of intrigue to the look.
A simple stylish black dress.
This purse will pop.
Comfortable ballet flats work year-round.
These tights are an unexpected hero piece.
For nights out, sheer black tights are a subtle way to show some skin and make your outfit cold-weather friendly. Instead of your usual dress or miniskirt, repurpose a swingy coat into your full-on outfit for the evening.
Cinch this soft, billowy coat at the waist and wear it all night long.
Boots made for the dance floor.
Black tights are a wardrobe hero.
Embrace a little '60s mod throwback moment by trying out a pair of white tights. Styled back to a tailored minidress and pointy flats, it's an ensemble that you can easily take from the office to drinks afterwards.
A sleek, streamlined dress.
Break out these pointy ballet flats for spring.
White tights are a 1960s throwback.
Finish off the look with a stretchy headband.
For transitional weather (and to get a bit more wear out of your summer staples), consider styling a pair of denim shorts with tights and heels. It gives them a whole new vibe.
Relaxed bermuda shorts are a versatile staple.
Dress up your shorts with a tailored top.
Heels help to dress up the jeans.
Add a surprising touch with bold tights.