For the longest time, I assumed footless tights were reserved for the most experimental of Gen Z's style set. But Jennifer Lopez has just made a case for the emerging trend to find a place in an entirely new styling demographic.

Stepping out in New York, Lopez wore a pair of black lace footless tights that cropped just above the ball of the foot. Worn with pointed-toe heels and a thigh-grazing tuxedo dress layered over a dramatic bow-adorned blouse, JLo crafted a glamorous daytime look to see her through a brimming day of engagements.

While the arrival of summer usually means your tights drawer gets a well-earned break, footless styles offer a lighter alternative to traditional full-coverage pairs. Their open-foot design feels fresher for warmer weather, while still bringing the texture and dimension that tights can add to an outfit. Styled with a mini dress, they offer extra coverage without feeling overly heavy on milder days.

I can't necessarily see this trend hitting the mainstream anytime soon, but a growing number of stylish dressers across generations are giving it a try. If you're tempted to join this stylish set, keep scrolling to shop my edit of the best footless tights available now.

Shop Footless Tights:

We’re mid-way through February and the days are slowly, but noticeably, stretching out. As the temperature lifts and the light lingers, getting dressed suddenly feels ripe for a little experimentation, and my first move? Swapping thick, wintery pairs for a prettier, alternative: lace tights.

Fuelled by our collective return to romance—I'm looking at the release of Wuthering Heights and Valentine's Day's imminent arrival as to why—fashion is leaning soft, delicate and romantic right now. And no accessory captures that mood quite so perfectly as a pair of lace tights.

But how exactly do you style them? Less familiar than your go-to semi-sheer pairs, lace tights can feel like a more elevated proposition—so knowing where to start is key. To spark some inspiration, I’ve been scrolling through some of the chicest women I know, bookmarking elegant ways to wear the trend. Read on for three lace tights outfits to copy right now.

3 Lace Tight Outfits to Copy This Spring

1. Lace Tights + Miniskirt + Knee-High Boots:

Style Notes: The easiest way to ease lace tights into your wardrobe is to style them exactly as you would a classic semi-sheer pair. A sleek grey wool miniskirt teamed with a coordinating knit provides a polished base, while lace tights add a subtle dose of texture and interest.

Shop the Look:

2. Leopard Print Coat + Slip Dress + Lace Tights:

Style Notes: Looking to elevate your eveningwear rotation? Lace tights might just be the simplest way to do it. Styled with a silky slip dress in a soft spring-ready shade, they bring depth, romance and dimension to the look. Layer on a statement leopard print coat and you’ve got a striking contrast that feels confident, chic and perfectly primed for nights out.

Shop the Look:

3. White Dress + White Tights:

Style Notes: Perhaps the chicest styling option of all, a cohesive monochrome look feels undeniably elegant. A pair of white lace tights worn with a swishy dress in the same hue creates a beautifully streamlined effect. Finish with a contrasting shoe to punctuate the look and add just enough edge.

Shop the Look:

All of a sudden, everyone is searching for patterned tights—Google Trends has seen an increase in search interest of 4500 per cent over the past week—while this is exciting news for anyone looking for an easy way to elevate their winter outfits, if there’s one thing I’ve learned in my years working in fashion, it’s that not all tights trends are created equal. Some prints feel fresh, elevated and genuinely wearable… and others, well, might be best left in the archives.

So which styles are worth slipping into for winter 25/26? There are a few styles worthy of your winter rotation.

First up: argyle tights, which have made a chic comeback this season. Fashion people are leaning all the way into the wintry look, pairing them with wool skirts, cosy knits and boxy outerwear for a look that will keep you comfortable during winter's coldest days. I also find them to be one of the easiest ways to add interest to an all-black outfit—especially when dressing up an LBD without overthinking it. This is one trend I fully expect to grow legs as temperatures continue to drop.

Animal motifs are also prowling back onto the scene. While leopard-print tights remain a perennial favourite, cheetah and zebra versions have been cropping up across the high street and on social feeds, offering a bolder way to tap into the look.

If your style skews classic, however, you can’t go wrong with polka-dot tights. Timeless, glamorous and romantic, they’re one of the most called-upon patterns of the season.

Much like the colourful tights trending right now, patterned pairs are set to become just as influential this season. If you’re as intrigued as I am, read on to discover the chicest patterned tights to shop now—from delicate lace styles to full-throttle animal prints.

Shop Patterned Tights:

The other day, I was sitting around the Who What Wear UK office with some of my chicest colleagues, discussing my winter dressing philosophy. As someone who has relocated to London from Sydney, I was waxing lyrical about the plights of covering up for the cold and how, surprisingly, tights were a fail-safe wardrobe essential for both combating the freezing temperatures and helping me seem like I hadn’t lost my sense of personal style.

“Tights make me feel like I’m back in a classroom,” someone said in response, much to my dismay. With somewhat matronly connotations, thicker grey styles and fleece-lined black versions can certainly transport you to your time in sixth form. But as someone who adores the way a pair of coloured stockings or printed hosiery can inject a playful and thermal touch to any look, I considered this an opportunity to school her on the chicest tight trends that are anything but dowdy.

Indeed, the key tight trends for winter 2025 in particular are ones that stealthily enhance any ensemble. Be it a wash of primary colour or ditsy prints, these major tight trends bring an unsung bold dimension to your winter outfit that’s unrivalled by any other category. Wearing animal-print trousers or dainty pointelle leggings might feel a tad too out of comfort zones for more demure dressers and commitment-phobes alike, the key tight trends for winter 2025 resolve to add an experimental slant, whilst not being too overt.

Conspicuously bold and cold-resistant is entirely the mood I strive to achieve in winter and, as my formerly unconvinced fellow editors came to learn, only achievable by tights. This season, we’ve shifted away from the rococo flourishes encapsulated by white lace tights and the boudoir-inspired takes seen by the reign of fishnets. The mode of now is epitomised by a restrained elegance, with primary colours like blue and white being layered against statement coats to bring an element of either harmony or contrast, depending on your tastes.

Sure, there is a case to be made that wearing tights with pieces like button-down shirts and pleated skirts might make you feel like a teenager stuck in homeroom again, but that’s not to say that’s the only way you have to wear the major tight trends for winter 2025. To prove this point further, I’ve pieced together a guide to the top shades and styles of now and compiled chic examples that showcase how to wear them well. A masterclass in trialling tights, if you will. So, without further ado, uncover the key tight trends for winter 2025, ahead.

The 6 Key Tight Trends for Winter 2025

1. White Tights

Style Notes: From ivory denim to cream coats, winter whites are a colour story that always makes you feel incredibly polished and put together during cooler months. Blame it on the fact that you blend in with the frosty surroundings or the bravery it takes to wear a stain-attracting colour during moments where rain, hail, snow and sleet are guaranteed, but adding a touch of white will ensure an incredibly refined outfit every time. If opting for a jacket or trousers is too contentious, a pair of bright, white tights are the solution.

Shop the Trend:

2. Polka-Dot Tights

Style Notes: Spotted: The elegant print trend that dominated the street style set over summer returning for winter. It’s true, after reigning supreme as the pattern du jour, polka dot is reemerging for one final hurrah in the format of speckled tights. Reminiscent of an old-world glamour, this tight trend will appeal to anyone who wants to channel their inner ‘60s socialite or ‘80s aristocrat, albeit with a modern flair.

Shop the Trend:

3. Blue Tights

Style Notes: Blue has always been a source of inspiration for the most stylish. From Joni Mitchell’s seminal album to Picasso’s blue period, the hue is one of the most evocative on the colour spectrum. For winter 2025, the hue finds new meaning in the form of tights. Reminiscent of the shades worn by nurses in the ‘50s, this baby blue tint takes a normally clinical hue and turns it on its head by pairing it with lavish leopard-print coats and spritely mini dresses.

Shop the Trend:

4. Animal-Print Tights

Style Notes: Animal print tights are one of the crucial tight trends of winter 2025, but it’s actually a movement that dates back nearly thirty years prior to when a young Chloë Sevigny wore a tiger style to a film premiere in 1996. Adopted by many taste makers and It girls like Chani Ra, Camille Charriere and Leandra Cohen in the time since, you’ll find this style at leading tights brands like Swedish Stockings and Wolford.

Shop the Trend:

5. Designer-Logo Tights

Style Notes: Logomania pandemonium has certainly quelled since the 2010s. But at a time where even entry-level luxury goods are out-pricing some people out of the market, why not embrace your favourite designer by wearing a pair of tights embellished with the brand’s sigil? Given how tights are a staple in any Parisian wardrobe, it should come as no surprise that maisons like Celine and Givenchy do this style well.

Shop the Trend:

6. Argyle Tights

Style Notes: Fans of Saltburn and the dark academia literary classic The Secret History rejoice! Argyle print tights have left the country club and polo fields and entered the fashion set, with searches for the trend currently at an all-time high. The diamond print is a classic preppy fashion staple, but as they say, the shape is forever.

Shop the Trend:

When you’re contending with constant rain, relentless wind and an intensifying chill, getting dressed in the morning can quickly shift from an expression of personality to a purely practical exercise. Still, style and warmth don’t have to be at odds, and I’ve found that having a few fail-safe outfit formulas in mind makes that early-morning rummage through my wardrobe much more successful.

Fortunately, Amal Clooney has just delivered a fresh dose of cold-weather inspiration in the form of a winter-ready three-piece look I’ll be returning to all season long. Starting with the boot trend I favour above all others, Amal anchored her outfit with a glossy pair of black knee-highs. Not only do they offer ample coverage (a blessing for anyone prioritising warmth), but their sleek, elongated silhouette brings polish to every outfit they meet.

She completed the core of the ensemble with black semi-sheer tights and a speckled minidress in a tonal shade, crafting an elevated silhouette that feels perfectly pitched for November and December’s event-filled calendar.

Topped with a black leather jacket, the whole look delivers head-to-toe inspiration for winter styling. If you’re feeling just as inspired, read on to shop my edit of the best knee-high boots, black tights and minidresses to re-create the formula yourself.

Shop Knee High Boots:

Shop Tights:

Shop Minidresses:

It feels like we're all in peak appreciation mode of the cold weather as well as the great layered looks we're finally able to wear, so let's continue on that theme with a little tribute to chic winter outfits that include a pair of tights. You'll rarely go wrong with timeless black pantyhose, but there's so much more to experiment with. If you're game, even your more classic tights have unexpected styling possibilities.

I'm mainly seeing preppy miniskirts and tights on the streets of New York, London and Oslo with either Mary Janes or loafers below the ankles. There's no shortage of tights inspo in my feed at the moment, from fun and colourful vibes in Lisbon to elegant outfits in Paris. Here are some of the best outfits with tights that have made it into my Instagram saved folder and everything you'll need to re-create them at home.

6 Chic Tights Outfits to Copy in Winter 2025:

1. Jacket + Burgundy Tight + Mini Skirt

Style Notes: It just wouldn't be a story about winter 2025 outfit inspo without touching on the burgundy trend. Expensive-looking and chic as well as timeless, this deep wine hue is the perfect accessory to bring a new energy to an otherwise all-black outfit.

Shop the Look:

2. Leather Trench + Grey Tights + Mules

Style Notes: Like V-neck sweaters and T-bar shoes, wooly tights are further evidence that my style is slowly but surely becoming anchored in pieces from my old school uniform, which, ironically, I always hated. Tights and peep-toe heels are one of those "love it or hate it" styling things, but if Sylvie Mus can't sell you on it, I don't know what to tell you.

Shop the Look:

3. Blazer + Sheer Tights + Sheer Skirt

Style Notes: Since sheer skirts are still trending, ultra-sheer pantyhose are the trick to not feeling too naked. If your slingbacks keep slipping, try trimming some double-sided fashion tape to add a little tackiness to the inside of the straps.

Shop the Look:

4. Trench Coat + Midi Dress + Lace Tights

Style Notes: Lace tights definitely deserve a special mention here, especially when styled with more pared-back outfit to contrast against the bold pattern. I like to think of this look as a go to to minimalists who want to avoid looking boring. I see you, and I do too.

Shop the Look:

5. Faux Fur Coat + White Tights + Slingback Heels

Style Notes: White tights might initially feel too out-there, but trust me when I say they'll earn you serious style points. Pair it with a cream faux fur coat and red slingback heels for a look that is sure to turn heads.

Shop the Look:

6. Red Jacket + Polka-Dot Tights + Grey Skirt

Style Notes: I love how Vicky Montanari always brings something a little quirky to her looks without getting so wild it doesn't feel wearable. Adding an unexpected layer of socks makes this outfit feel extra fresh and preppy, and maybe they're the secret to wearing tights with Tabis!

Shop the Look:

The most remarkable thing about the wonderful world of fashion is that, every so often, a microtrend sweeps through the landscape with such vigour, we’re forced to throw away the playbook and start anew.

This is (albeit quite dramatic), a fitting way to describe what's currently happening with the meteoric rise of coloured-tights outfits. It goes without saying that styling tights with your winter-capsule staples is about as groundbreaking as florals in spring; it's practically a must when you live in the UK. But outfits that feature tights in hues so vibrant that they'd make Mary Quant take note would, not long ago, have been considered a touch passé, slightly juvenile and best saved for dress-up opportunities like Halloween.

But change is afoot (quite literally!), and with it comes a rainbow of bright and bold hosiery which would put Emily in Paris's namesake's kaleidoscopic collection of colourful stockings to shame. With a spectrum of vibrant hues and unapologetically bold prints coming to the forefront, you might feel safer overlooking the shift in the zeitgeist and retreating to your tried-and-true black tights. And of course, that's fine, but I believe that when pulling together a look, it's the finer details that help elevate our layers from a mismatched outfit build to something that feels far more put together.

What's more, tights are gloriously affordable (costing far less than other autumn/winter 2025 trends, like a statement faux fur or pair of indigo jeans), yet they can breathe new life into your winter wardrobe in much the same way as a bold pair of earrings or a printed blouse. This being said, I still understand the struggle of trying to make funky tights work. I, too, have fallen victim to a late-night scroll that led to adding a pair of colourful tights to my basket, only to feel deflated when trying to style them.

Which is why, on this topic especially, I take inspiration from the most fashionable people on my feeds. As the reign of the quiet-luxury aesthetic continues to wane, my stylish favourites are already fighting off the winter blues in style by embracing dopamine dressing in a way that feels refreshingly "now", injecting a touch of colour into their winter looks on their legs. Whether they’re using them to bolster an otherwise monochromatic look or adding a playful pop of colour to a minimalist outfit, I’ve come to realise that colourful tights can work with many pieces you might already have in your wardrobe.

Having scoured my algorithms, I’ve rounded up five fail-safe ways to incorporate a colourful-tights outfit into your current rotation. Scroll to see them.

1. Red Tights + Leather Jacket + Ballet Flats

Style Notes: Let’s start with the basics, shall we? One of the biggest colours of the year, the pop-of-red trend has taken the fashion set by storm. Adding instant visual interest through aptly placed colour contrast, they’re like a breath of fresh air when livening up your winter neutrals. Take inspo from Lucy Williams and pair them with shorts on warmer days, or a pleated maxi when it's chillier.

Shop the Look:

2. White Tights + Minidress + Maxi Coat

Style Notes: To give your winter look a frosty touch, consider white tights. A focal point of Richard Quinn’s spring/summer 2025 runway, the designer proved that white tights play well with almost every colour imaginable, giving your outfit a subtle twist. Drawing the eye, they easily elevate the neutrals that typically make up most of our winter capsule wardrobes.

Shop the Look:

3. Green Tights + Blouse + Maxi Skirt

Style Notes: As I said, colourful tights really help to execute style with ease, and this is especially true in Anne-Victorie Lefevre's case. A way to look directional without being too loud (owing to the spectrum of earthier tones), green is quickly emerging as one of the chicest colours to wear this winter. Adding a low-key flair to the outfit, Anne-Victorie's green tights pull her look together. To make it winter-appropriate, just add a long coat.

Shop the Look:

4. Brown Tights + Knitted T-shirt + Midi Skirt

Style Notes: It feels like we’ve discussed every possible iteration of chocolate brown at Who What Wear UK, but tights have been quite overlooked. Adding warmth to your cold-weather outfits (literally and figuratively), the rich tone has a luxe appeal and is neutral enough so as not to overpower the look.

Shop the Look:

5. Grey Tights + Black Jumper + Biker Boots

Style Notes: If you’re looking to add a pop of colour but are a touch afraid to depart from black, maybe grey tights are for you. Not a dramatic departure but fundamentally more interesting, they add an innate preppy tone to every ensemble, especially in a cable-knit texture. Finish the look like Jeanette Madsen: with biker boots and a heavyweight brown blazer for a perfectly 2025 winter 'fit.

Shop the Look:

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, fashion is our speciality. Our editors have years of industry experience, from reporting on seasonal fashion trends seen at international fashion weeks to working with some of the most recognisable names in fashion. Every item we recommend is carefully selected based on current trends, quality and real-world wearability.

We regularly try on pieces ourselves—everything from best-selling jeans to designer shoes—and speak to external experts and fashion insiders, staying closely connected to what our readers are searching for. Our advice is grounded in expertise, and each and every buy we feature has to meet our exceptional taste standards—so you can feel confident in every recommendation.

The word "muse" gets thrown around a little too lightly nowadays, but if there’s one tastemaker who is undoubtedly deserving of this title, it’s Alexa Chung.

Over her two decades in the industry, the perennial It girl has garnered a legion of adherents who worship her commitment to ethereal everyday style—Peter Pan collars paired with boxy leather jackets, denim jeans finished with quaint lace-up derbys, knee-grazing shift dresses plastered with an illustrated portrait of Elvis Presley’s face.

Now, to celebrate her 42nd birthday, the British fashion icon delivered a masterclass in effortlessly elegant evening wear just in time for the upcoming party season. Fusing a timeless silhouette with a contemporary trend, Chung donned a knee-grazing little black dress that boasted a raw hem trim and saccharine bow accent.

This enduring mini is a style that appears in any well-edited wardrobe and has been a staple for chic socialites like Audrey Hepburn to Margaret Qualley since Coco Chanel invented the garment over a century ago. But to ring in her latest lap around the sun, Chung leant into the zany girlishness she’s curated over the years by teaming the look with a pair of light-denier tights and white court pumps.

Given the fact that Chung fêted the occasion in New York, the outfit formula also felt like an homage to some of the city’s most prolific dressers, like Sex and the City’s Carrie Bradshaw and Madonna during her Material Girl era. As it turns out, Chung isn’t the only one to gravitate towards this ensemble.

Earlier this week on the island of Manhattan, Hailey Bieber also embraced this template by stepping out in a black leather midi from Saint Laurent’s spring/summer 2026 collection and razor-sharp white heels.

With the festive season fast approaching, it’s only a matter of time before we see more of this exact outfit formula. Between the classic dress shape and the polished shoe colour and cut, don’t be surprised when you see this at every upcoming soirée from here on out.

Because if you can’t beat them—and I doubt you’ll be able to find a more sophisticated look than this—join them, and scroll on to shop the best black dresses, black tights and white heels below.

Shop LBDs, Black Tights and White Heels:

I’ve long believed that dressing chicly through the seasons comes down to keeping your outfit’s foundation strong and your layers uncomplicated. Colour certainly has its time and place, but for the most part, I find that a restrained palette ensures lasting elegance and versatility. The same goes for silhouette—choosing a few simple, sophisticated shapes can do the heavy lifting for any look. Perhaps that’s why Sofia Richie’s latest winter ensemble resonated with me so much.

Keeping things uncomplicated, Sofia put together one of the chicest cold-weather looks I’ve seen this season. She began with an elegant base: a beige scarf coat cut to an ankle-grazing length with a built-in scarf detail that draped gracefully across her shoulders. Cocooned from neck to ankle, the long-line coat maintained a clean, refined silhouette void of excess.

Allowing just a glimpse of her ankles and shoes, Sofia completed her look with a carefully chosen tights-and-heels pairing that elevated the ensemble even further. Rather than opting for the colourful or printed tights that have been trending this season, charming as they can be, she kept things cohesive with a pair of sheer black tights, which balanced the softness of the beige coat.

To finish, she stepped into sleek black pointed-toe heels. The tall, angular design added structure and polish, offsetting the coat’s voluminous drape with some sharpness.

Inspired by Sofia’s timeless approach? Read on to shop her look and discover my edit of the best scarf coats, black heels and sheer tights to see you stylishly through the season.

Shop Sofia's Look:

Shop Scarf Coats:

Shop Pointed-Toe Heels

Shop Sheer Tights:

Every winter, I hit the same styling roadblock: how to make tights feel sleek rather than frumpy. Year after year, it takes me a little finessing before they start to feel fresh again. Usually, I end up defaulting to knee-high boots—but this season, I’ve been swayed by a far more unexpected pairing.

While out for the evening this week, Hailey Bieber reminded me of a shoe trend I hadn’t thought about in years. Sidestepping the black high-vamp heels that have been everywhere lately, she styled her tights with a pair of white pointed-toe pumps—a ’90s favourite that looked thoroughly modern set against the rest of her ensemble.

Paired with an otherwise all-black outfit, the bright white shoes and sheer tights gave her look a lift. They broke up the heaviness of her leather and imbued a sense of lightness that black heels just couldn’t achieve.

Now, white heels haven’t always enjoyed the best reputation—often dismissed as a little “cheap” or tricky to style—but Hailey’s look proves their chic potential lies in the contrast. When kept clean (a quick polish or cobbler visit goes a long way to rectifying any blemishes), they add a sharp, elevated edge to any outfit.

If you, too, are ready to give this two-part formula a try, scroll on for my edit of the best sheer tights and white pointed-toe heels to re-create Hailey’s surprisingly sleek winter look.

Shop Sheer Tights and White Pointed-Toe Heels:

From Kate Moss roaming around Paris in a slinky little black dress and a pair of seductively translucent light deniers to Alexa Chung in a silky mini slip and Burberry’s Nova Check pumps, there’s no denying that black tights are as British as they come.

But to some, this cool-weather staple still reeks of the sixth form corridors and stuffy libraries that used to play host to them, causing a slight aversion to donning the beloved hosiery style. That’s where the chicest alternatives to black tights come in.

In recent years, tights have slowly risen in the ranks from a forgotten underwear drawer to a considered and foremost addition to thoughtful outfits. You can blame this on Chanel's creative director Matthieu Blazy, who first helped whet consumers’ palettes for elegant tights during his tenure at Bottega Veneta. Indeed, during the Italian designer’s sophomore season at the house, he presented a look that featured a chunky navy jumper paired with black tights and a pair of knickers. This act of wearing tights as trousers swiftly became one of the year’s biggest trends, adopted by everyone from Kendall Jenner while out in Beverly Hills to Emma Corrin gliding through glittering grand canals at the Venice Film Festival.

And while black tights will always be a true sartorial classic, it’s moments like these that encourage you to expand the horizons of your personal taste and explore more innovative options. These sophisticated alternatives to black tights aren’t total substitutes, but rather fresher choices that can breathe new life into a stale outfit or transform a look into something far more intentional and impactful. Better still, these choices all offer the same thermal support and layering benefits that black tights do, which is an essential element for surviving the frigid winter months that await us, without actually breaking the bank, given that most expensive-looking high-street styles start for less than the price of sickly sweet iced coffee at one of London’s trendiest cafes.

As for what alternatives to black tights are dominating? It’s a combination of bold neutrals and vibrant patterns, including the beloved tiger-print pair famously worn by Chloë Sevigny to a film premiere in 1996 and the saturated tones seen on Miu Miu’s spring/summer 2023 runway.

Ultimately, the question isn’t whether to wear tights or not to wear tights, but what tights to wear, and as the below proves, there are countless slick and polished options for you to choose from.

With that in mind, keep scrolling through for the 5 elegant alternatives to black tights that will have you swapping, or at least pausing, your well-loved and long-standing pair of dark stockings.

The 5 Chicest Alternatives to Black Tights

1. Grey Tights

Style Notes: When eschewing a colour as classic as black, it’s always safest to stay within your comfort zone with another dialled-down shade. Grey, as unassuming and benevolent as it sounds, is a fantastic option for those who want to shake things up. Not only is the hue the closest thing you can get to black without crossing over into that territory, meaning that you’ll feel a sense of familiarity when wearing it, but the paler tone actually can help brighten your overall ensemble. From steel to pewter and even true silver, this look is 50 shades of classy.

Shop the Tights:

2. Burgundy Tights

Style Notes: It’s not just you who’s seeing red. Shades like oxblood, merlot and chianti continue to dominate during the colder months, with the most ingenious dressers incorporating the popular hue into their outfits by slipping into a pair of burgundy tights. The result is something that feels decadent but also gently winks to the shade du jour.

Shop the Tights:

3. Designer Logo Tights

Style Notes: Fashion has steadily been obsessed with the naked dressing movement, from Miu Miu’s satin bras that poke out the side of the brand’s knitted cardigans to Chloé’s boudoir-approved lace-trim ruffle shorts. In recent seasons, however, we’ve seen brands embrace this mode further through hosiery and the fusion of revealing the skin through a historically matronly silhouette. The result is both prim and provocative, proving the most potent antidote to secretarial and sexy black tights.

Shop the Tights:

4. White Tights

Style Notes: As is often the case when it comes to resolving style woes, this option proves that it’s a matter of inverting or juxtaposing what you know to achieve a completely different outlook. Ethereal and prim, this style can often border on bridal or ballerina territory—which is great for those who adore Natalie Portman’s performance in Black Swan or regularly peruse Danielle Frankle’s dresses, but not so much everyone else—so ensuring they look as suave as black tights is simply a matter of toughening them up. Pair with a funnel neck-jacket or a super structured tweed coat et voilà!

Shop the Tights:

5. Animal-Print Tights

Style Notes: Speaking of edge, there’s not a pair of tights boasting more personality or flair than that of the animal print variety. As previously mentioned, it was a then 22-year-old Sevigny who introduced the act of wearing patterned tights to the masses when she paired a tiger-print pair with an asymmetrical black dress with sequin stripes and a boutonniere. Now, It girls like Camille Charrière and Leandra Medine Cohen have both followed suit, including the style in their respective collaborations with sustainable Scandi brand, Swedish Stockings.

Shop the Tights:

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, fashion is our speciality. Our editors have years of industry experience, from reporting on seasonal fashion trends seen at international fashion weeks to working with some of the most recognisable names in fashion. Every item we recommend is carefully selected based on current trends, quality and real-world wearability.

We regularly try on pieces ourselves—everything from best-selling jeans to designer shoes—and speak to external experts and fashion insiders, staying closely connected to what our readers are searching for. Our advice is grounded in expertise, and each and every buy we feature has to meet our exceptional taste standards—so you can feel confident in every recommendation.

I’ve always had a real penchant for skirts and dresses, and I refuse to let them gather dust just because the temperatures take a dip.

The trade-off, of course, is that my tights collection works overtime from October through March. For years, I defaulted to black, rotating through various opacities without giving it much thought. Dependable? Absolutely. But inspiring? Not so much. This season, however, my winter wardrobe is in for a treat, as I've discovered a subtle but impactful upgrade that’s made my trusty black pairs feel almost redundant. The chic alternative? Grey tights.

Not a dramatic departure from black, but certainly more interesting, grey tights are becoming the new-season neutral I’m reaching for the most. In thick, woollen styles, they call back to the pairs we wore at school, bringing a nostalgic, preppy energy that sharpens a look. But what I love most is how versatile they are with colour.

Just look at Maya Hawke’s pink jacket and grey tights pairing, pictured above. The tights ground the pastel hue beautifully, anchoring it without dulling its sweetness. Add in her burgundy bag, and you’ve got a three-tone colour story that's impossibly chic.

In sheerer finishes, grey tights take on a different personality altogether—polished, expensive-looking, and adding dimension to outfits in ways black tights simply can’t. Picture them with knee-high boots and a mini, or layered under buttery leather separates for a chic, considered finish.

Below, I’ve rounded up the very best pairs to shop now. Read on to discover my edit.

Shop Grey Tights:

The City of Lights has played host to many a style icon throughout its storied history: Marie Antoinette and her rococo extravagance, Josephine Baker and her ostentatious showgirl wardrobe, Audrey Hepburn and her beatnik chic…

Now, during the early part of Paris Fashion Week, legendary supermodel Kate Moss has taken it upon herself to prove exactly why the French capital is the perfect place for stylish dressers to shine. No stranger to making her well-adored wardrobe items the centrepiece of a memorable outfit—including the Levi’s 501s she wore on repeat whilst off-duty in the ‘90s, the Wellington boots that made regular appearances at Glastonbury during the early 2000s or even her vintage Hermès bag that she recently took to the beach in Formentera, Moss’s latest appearance relied upon a very simple formula.

However, it was the way she leaned into the effortless sensuality and refined elegance synonymous with the city that truly made me stop in our tracks.

Of course, I'm referring to the way the 51-year-old transformed a humble LBD into something far more sophisticated by teaming it with a pair of black tights and chic, round-toe heels. She stepped out in this look whilst running errands in the 1st arrondissement: checking into The Ritz in Place Vendôme, attending a fitting at Tom Ford’s atelier and enjoying the sights after attending Saint Laurent’s spring/summer 2026 collection on Monday evening. On the latter, it appears she took styling cues from Anthony Vaccarello’s latest collection for the house, as the Belgian designer also presented a slew of vampy looks paired with lighter stockings and humble pumps.

And whilst a luxe monochromatic outfit like this seems in keeping with what one would pack to wear in Paris, what surprised me the most was the way she switched out her higher-denier tights for a pair that was on the sheer side. In the past, I’ve almost omitted wearing anything under a 40, erroneously thinking they wouldn’t make an impact. But what Kate has proven here is that there’s a subtle sophistication in exercising restraint and not going too bold with your hoisery this season.

Those who have found themselves asking, "Whatever happened to glamour?" will be happy to hear me salute Kate in her act of dressing suitably for the occasion—and the location. With party season and colder weather approaching, it’s also never felt more relevant to lean into the fun of dressing up for the hell of it. Who knew all it took was throwing on a pair of tights that have been in your underwear drawer since secondary school? I am in no way suggesting that you reach for this pair, however, so consider this an invitation to upgrade your collection and shop my edit of the chicest black tights currently available below.

Shop Kate Moss's Look:

Pamela Anderson's no fashion newbie, but lately, her outfits have been commanding my attention even more than usual. With a knack for blending easy elegance with trend-led touches, she has inspired me once more with a series of chic outfits, all of which happen to feature a somewhat controversial styling trick that's primed to take off ahead of autumn. I'm talking about a polarising pairing that’s long been considered a fashion faux pas: open-toe sandals worn with tights.

I've always felt that visible hosiery seams can make an outfit look slightly unfinished, and pairing a summery sandal with a wintry accessory is a tricky balance to strike. Pamela is clearly one for breaking "rules" though; I've spotted the actor pull together this pairing on multiple occasions over the past few days, varying the tone, texture and opacity of her tights, as well as, naturally, the sandals she pairs them with. There’s something intriguing about the contradiction—shielding yet exposing the foot—that lends an outfit an unexpected edge. It’s this tension that elevates a simple look and gives it that directional twist.

Designers are backing the move, too. Autumn/winter 2025 collections from Murmur, Véronique Leroy, Valentino and Ottolinger have all featured tights-and-sandals pairings, usually grounded by long hemlines or pencil skirt silhouettes.

If you’re looking to refresh your wardrobe with a minimal shift that still feels ahead of the curve, this is it. Scroll on for the tights and sandals to take you there.

Shop Tights and Sandals:

If there are two celebrities whose style I’d happily take inspiration from, it has to be Pamela Anderson and Elsa Hosk. While they move in different circles, both have an undeniable knack for curating sleek, elegant outfits and filling their wardrobes with enviable, timeless pieces.

Though their personal styles differ in key ways, whenever I spot a crossover between them, I know I’ve stumbled upon something special. And this week, that moment arrived in the form of a chic, cold-weather pairing that I’ll always have a soft spot for—simple black tights styled with sleek court shoes.

Channelling ‘90s-inspired elegance, Anderson embraced the look with another decade-defining staple—a silky skirt. Adding a relaxed twist, she layered on a chunky knit, striking that balance between classy and effortless. Sticking to a a palette of green tones, the look felt directional thanks to its colour choice but also very considered due to how she styled it.

Hosk, on the other hand, leaned into her signature polished aesthetic. She styled her tights with square-toe pointed heels, adding a refined edge to her look. Her outfit followed a considered, minimalist approach—a knitted cardigan paired with a matching mini skirt, accessorised with a black handbag, chocolate-brown leather gloves and deep inky sunglasses. The result? A masterclass in modern, pared-back sophistication.

A staple of every fashion person’s wardrobe throughout the ‘90s, this timeless tights-and-heels combo is long overdue for a comeback. And with Pamela Anderson and Elsa Hosk already leading the charge, it’s only a matter of time before we see it everywhere, including Fashion Month.

To shop the two-piece trend that’s already in their style rotation, read on to discover our edit of the best tights and court shoes below.

SHOP TIGHTS AND COURT SHOES:

Some tights-and-shoe pairings feel like a match made in heaven—knee-high boots and semi-sheer tights, for example, are a time tested duo. Others, however, continue to spark debate among fashion circles. Tights and open-toe sandals, though a red carpet staple, remain a rare sight in everyday wardrobes. Another divisive combination? Tights paired with trainers.

While opinions in our team are mixed, one fashion insider who firmly embraces the look is model and singer Suki Waterhouse. Stepping out amid the whirlwind of New York Fashion Week, Waterhouse wore an embroidered leather trench coat, sleek black sunglasses, and an oversized scarf. Yet, as striking as these elements were, they weren’t what stole the show. Instead, it was her unexpected choice of footwear—trainers worn with tights—that truly caught my attention.

Eschewing the predictable Nike or Adidas picks, Waterhouse instead opted for a pair of vibrant orange and pink Kurt Geiger Islington Trainers (£159). Tapping into the colourful trainer trend that has been gaining momentum over the past few months, her choice injected a playful contrast into her winter ensemble with minimal effort.

Though an unconventional pairing, Waterhouse’s tights-and-trainers combination offered both comfort and practicality—ideal for the demands of Fashion Week—while also adding a fresh, unexpected lift to her heavier cold-weather look.

Convincing a number of the Who What Wear staffers who were previously on the fence that this combination is worth another look in, read on to discover our edit of the best tights and trainers below.

SHOP TIGHTS AND TRAINERS:

Every now and again I come across a trend that makes me question how I've gone this long without it. It's often the most subtle sorts that make me feel this way. Low-key, but highly impactful, these thoughtful accessories seem to reverberate through my wardrobe, enlivening other pieces that had felt stale until they met. Just recently I came across a growing accessory trend that falls firmly into this camp—and I can't help but share.

Small but mighty, I can't stop styling the sheer socks trend. Now, here me out, I know that socks aren't deemed an interesting accessory, but these high-fashion pairs might make you reconsider. Crafted from a semi-sheer, tights fabrication, these socks have a transparent finish that makes them feel so much more elegant than their opaque counterparts.

A chic transitional item, sheer socks were practically designed for those in-between days when you're done with wearing tights, but it's not yet warm enough to embrace bare legs. Extending a little higher up the legs than your typical cotton pairs, I've seen so many chic knee-high styles work their way into fashion circles this season.

I'm not the only one who has noticed the trend. Hosiery brand Swedish Stockings has noticed that sales of their sheer socks have increased by 15% since January, while Google Trends shows that "sheer knee-high socks" has become a breakout search term over the past month.

Owing to the sleek fabrication, these elegant socks have a sexy energy that sees them pair particularly well with pencil skirts and flowing styles, but I've also seen the trend look chic with knee-length shorts or styled underneath jeans and trousers. Shoe-wise, your options are open. While this trend looks impossibly chic when worn with a simple pointed-toe heel, I've also seen fashion people style them with simple ballet flats, to great effect.

While these souped-up socks are available in a range of colours and lengths, I can't help but fawn over the simple elegance of black knee-high styles. However, if you're looking for a playful way to revive your wardrobe, then a bright white or burgundy pair might be just the ticket.

What's more, is that this is one of the most affordable trends I've come across for a while. With prices starting as low as £2.50, I'm more than ready to commit to the trend. If you are too, read on to discover our edit of the best sheer socks below.

SHOP SHEER SOCKS:

As January tumbles into February and fashion weeks begin rolling into each other, I like to take stock of the quieter trends that start to bloom amid the season’s heightened creativity. While the biggest runway moments often steal the spotlight, it's the looks worn by attendees and via street style that I like to focus my attention towards.

Fashion Month hasn't yet begun in earnest, but this week's Haute Couture shows in Paris have already started to sow the seeds for the trends set to define the season. We've seen dramatic peplum jackets on showgoers, sculptural silhouettes dominating the runways, and today, I’ve spotted another trend taking root—one I’m warming to very quickly.

Once deemed a fashion faux pas, the combination of wearing tights and strappy, open-toe sandals is having a moment. This week alone, I’ve spotted multiple front-row favourites embracing the styling trick, proving that fashion "rules" ought to be broken. The pairing is playful yet contradictory—both revealing and concealing in equal measure—adding a touch of unexpected charm to even the most polished looks.

Lily-Rose Depp and Dua Lipa were among the first to champion the look at the Chanel Haute Couture show. Depp opted for a classic tweed skirt set, grounding the look with silver metallic open-toe heels and sheer black tights. Lipa, on the other hand, leaned into a monochromatic aesthetic, styling her black miniskirt and jacket with a quilted Chanel bag and an oversized bow in her hair. The addition of tights and sandals and XL bow tempered the primness of her matching set, lending the ensemble a playful, retro-infused edge that felt refreshingly modern.

So, why was it considered a "faux pas"? It can sometimes look a little messy, more so if you can see the seam that connects the bottom of the tights peaking through the open toe of the shoe. However, position your hosiery right, and it can look very chick, as evidenced above. The pairing does carry a certain retro allure, too—perhaps because it harks back to the hosiery trends of the ‘60s, when tights became a statement in their own right.

Regardless of its roots, the message is clear: it's time to rethink seasonal dressing. Why limit your favourite summer shoes to warm-weather months when a simple pair of tights can transform them for year-round wear?

If you're also charmed by the rule-breaking trend, read on to discover our edit of the best tights and open-toe sandals below.

SHOP OPEN-TOE SANDALS AND TIGHTS:

As a fashion writer, staying on top of celebrity trends is a crucial part of my job.

Every day, I thoroughly review the latest celebrity outfits to identify the ones most worth covering. With so much time devoted to analysing their style, I’ve developed a personal shortlist of stars who consistently nail the brief. One recent addition to the ranks is actor Pamela Anderson. Sticking to a refined and polished silhouette whilst often incorporating considered nods to a trend here and there, Anderson's outfits always pique my interest.

This week, during the press tour for her latest film, The Last Showgirl, she stepped out in a series of impeccable looks that perfectly encapsulated her uncomplicated approach to elevated dressing. Of course, I was struck by her chic monochromatic outfits, but it was a subtle yet impactful accessory trend that featured in two of her looks that truly caught my attention: 10-denier semi-sheer tights.

This hosiery trend, which gained popularity in the 1980s, aligned perfectly with the polished, professional aesthetic of the decade. Amongst the power suits, pencil skirts and structured dresses the decade is so famed for, 10-denier tights were the finishing touch that made outfits feel all the more put-together. After peaking in the '80s, the trend faded in the late '90s and early 2000s as aesthetics changed. Whilst the 2010s leaned into patterned or nude hosiery, black semi-sheer tights largely took a backseat.

10-denier tights have never been entirely “out,” but their resurgence feels noteworthy after another season dominated by thicker, coloured and patterned pairs. Their delicate semi-sheer finish brings an understated sophistication to any outfit. That said, the low denier does make them prone to snags, so investing in a high-quality pair is essential to avoid mishaps during wear and keep them looking pristine in between. Wearing hers with entirely black outfits, Anderson's pared-back approach made the quietly elegant accessory stand out all the more.

If you're inspired by her elevated interpretation of the "dated" trend, read on to discover our edit of the best 10-denier tights.

SHOP OUR EDIT OF THE BEST 10-DENIER TIGHTS:

If you've been keeping an eye on what fashion insiders are wearing lately, you may have noticed a subtle yet impactful shift in their winter wardrobes. Quietly elevating outfits everywhere, a chic group of trendsetters have swapped their traditional black tights for a more elegant alternative: brown tights.

For years, black tights have been the winter staple, but brown tights are quickly gaining ground. With their rich, warm tone, they easily complement the earthy shades that dominate wardrobes during the coldest seasons, such as camels, beiges, and tans.

Adding a layer of depth to winter outfits, brown tights have the unique ability to enrich the overall look without overpowering it adding a rich-looking energy in the process. Available in a range of shades—from soft beiges and taupes to deep chocolates and rusts—this elegant trend can slot into endless winter looks.

Enjoying a major moment this winter, the chocolate brown colour trend is one of the most significant of the season. Having peppered the runways across the autumn/winter collections, rich brown shades went on to dominate shop fronts across the coldest months. Cropping up in the form of chocolate knits, espresso trousers, and latte layers, it's no surprise that tights have been treated to a chocolatey makeover this season, too.

The beauty of brown tights lies in their subtlety. They offer a sophisticated alternative to black tights, adding depth and dimension to your look without feeling too bold or flashy, whilst presenting a more mellow alternative to the colourful tights trend than the red or burgundy pairs that have been circulating this season.

It's not just Instagram, Google Trends has seen an uptick in interest, as fashion people search for an elegant way to add dimension to their winter outfits without sacrificing warmth.

Read on to discover our edit of the best brown tight below.

SHOP OUR EDIT OF THE BEST BROWN TIGHTS:

I’ve been very into tights the past couple of winters. Even as someone who doesn’t usually wear skirts or tights, I love the look of sheer pantyhose peeping out from under jeans and trousers. Last year, I played around with pops of red, but this season, I stuck to brown and black. Wool tights (especially in a very Prada-coded grey) are also on my radar after seeing chic women in Paris dialling into them this season. And I’ll admit, I’ve even come around to the more controversial long-shorts–and-tights combo this winter.

Speaking of tights trends popping up this winter, burgundy tights are currently all over my feed. Maybe it's not a huge surprise, given 2024’s infatuation with the colour trend. I love that it's an easy and affordable shortcut to making even your laziest outfit feel intentional and on-trend. From fashion influencers to celebrities like Kendall Jenner (who was ahead of the curve last February at a Grammy's after-party in Los Angeles), here’s how we’ve been spotting fashion people wearing this buzzy tights trend.

1. NAVY MINI DRESS + BURGUNDY TIGHTS

Burgundy looks so good with navy blue, as they are two rich-looking colors that give private-school-uniform energy. Mixing in a little black doesn't make it weird in the slightest. Note Sara Walker's go-to black accessories above, and don't give it a second thought.

SHOP THE LOOK:

2. CHECKED MINI SKIRT + MATCHING BLAZER + BURGUNDY TIGHTS

I'm treating you to two pics of Megan Ellaby's look because I don't want you to miss the styling of her socks over tights. Just like her clashing snake-print tote and loafers, sometimes something that seems a bit wrong just works.

SHOP THE LOOK:

3. GREY JUMPER + PLEATED MINI SKIRT + BURGUNDY TIGHTS

I would be wrong not to mention that there's something about burgundy tights that feel festive and perfect for the holidays, especially brighter cherry hues (which pair so well with gray).

SHOP THE LOOK:

4. BLACK JACKET + MINI SKIRT + BURGUNDY TIGHTS

This all-black look is 10 times more interesting thanks to Salome Mory's accessorising, by way of luxe burgundy tights and metallic clutch.

SHOP THE LOOK:

5. BURGUNDY PUFFER + BURGUNDY TIGHTS

Mimi Nguyen really isn't letting New York's winter temperatures cramp her style. Even a long puffer feels chic in burgundy, and her tonal tights add an extra layer of cool.

SHOP THE LOOK:

We're mid-way through the coldest season, and I feel like my cold-weather wardrobe needs a little refresh.

I still need my coats and cosy knits, but I'm craving a fresh update for the latter half of winter. Thankfully, I’ve found just the accessory to breathe new life into my looks. Energising the wardrobes of fashion insiders in London, New York and beyond, white tights have quietly taken the style set by storm this season.

Adding a light, fresh touch to otherwise heavy winter looks, this surprising microtrend has quickly blossomed. First spotted on the runways at Valentino, Richard Quinn and Altuzarra, designers paired bright white tights with layers, volume and frills, creating elegant silhouettes imbued with regal energy.

White tights on the Richard Quinn spring/summer 2025 runway.

Unsurprisingly, the trend quickly moved off the runway and into the real world. Taking it out for a test drive, celebrities have embraced the new-season accessory. Actor Jodie Turner-Smith styled hers with micro shorts in the same snowy shade, a simple black top and a floor-skimming white coat to an appointment in New York. The result? A fresh, dynamic look that had fashion editors buzzing.

Whilst some brands have dabbled in opaque pairs, others have come out with elegant lace styles that add an ultra-feminine undertone to any outfit. A trend in its own right, white lace tights have been worn by countless influencers this winter. With a slightly gothic energy, this is an outfit-elevating tool that fashion people are loving right now.

Having graced the runways and done the rounds on Instagram, it will come as no surprise to hear that lace tights were also a standout street style trend during fashion month in September. Styled with knitted co-ords or tonal winter whites, this unexpected accessory popped up in multiple cities, cementing its place as a noteworthy microtrend.

If white tights strike you as tricky to style, fear not: the key is simplicity. A monochromatic white outfit paired with frosty tights creates a clean, impactful look that’s easy to pull off. For a bolder take, wear them with a vivid pop of red or a classic LBD for a striking contrast. Before you know it, you’ll find these tights seamlessly integrating into your winter wardrobe.

To discover the accessory trend that fashion people are prioritising right now, read on to discover our edit of the best white tights.

SHOP OUR EDIT OF THE BEST WHITE TIGHTS:

Recently, I've been paying special attention to a part of my wardrobe that used to go unnoticed. Tucked away at the back of my underwear drawer, tights were an afterthought—until now.

This season, I've become suddenly obsessed with tights of every sort. It started with the colourful tights my colleagues have been wearing and the fishnet styles I’ve spotted on my favourite celebrities. But lately, it’s pretty lace tights that are catching my eye and sparking my fascination.

There's a sudden surge in the popularity of lace tights, and it isn’t just in my head. Google Trends confirms an uptick in searches, and my Instagram feed is awash with posts showcasing these chic hosiery styles. Whilst it might feel like it came out of nowhere, the signs have been there for a while—sheer and lacy garments have been making waves for months. Think back to the summer, when lace-trim skirts were staples, or autumn when lacy blouses started trending. Combine that with the rising interest in colourful and patterned pairs, and it was only a matter of time before lace tights emerged as one of the standout accessories of the season.

A little eccentric yet undeniably chic, these tights feel simultaneously "feminine" and vaguely gothic—either energy of which can be played up or down depending on your styling. Take Dua Lipa for instance, who recently paired hers with an all-black look, letting the intricate pattern add drama to her outfit in an uncomplicated but impactful way.

Actor Zoe Saldana was also spotted styling a pair this month, wearing hers with a feather-embellished jumper and skirt. She leaned into the gothic vibe in another all-black look, using her lace tights to elevate the simple but striking outfit.

Instantly exaggerating any outfit, lace tights are a great styling tool to keep in your back pocket during winter. I expect to see a lot more of this trend to come, and the good news is that it's one of the most affordable I've found this season, with prices starting at just £8. This has to be one of the easiest ways to refresh your wardrobe on a budget.

Read on to discover our edit of the best lace tights.

SHOP OUR EDIT OF THE BEST LACE TIGHTS:

Up until now, tights have never been a focal part of my wardrobe. While I reach for them often, I normally do so out of practicality. Of course, they look chic, but I wear them because I have to—not because I particularly want to.

But, this season my relationship with this underrated garment has entirely changed—highly influenced by chic colourful tights outfits I've been spotting all over my FYP this winter. Forgoing simple black styles, influencers, editors and celebrities are opting for a growing range of rainbow shades instead.

Injecting their outfits with a fresh pop of colour—without overcomplicating their looks—these colourful tights instil a playful energy into every ensemble in an easy but impactful way. If you're also craving a small dose of colour right now, read on to discover the colourful tights that fashion people are styling this winter.

6 COLOURFUL TIGHTS TRENDS TO TRY THIS WINTER:

1. WHITE TIGHTS

Style Notes: To give your look a frosty feeling, there's no garment for up for the job than an optic white pair of tights. Styling well with other bright white garments for a fresh and wintery look, these pretty pairs are one of my favourite styles to reach for across the height of winter.

SHOP THE WHITE TIGHTS TREND:

2. BURGUNDY TIGHTS

Style Notes: Burgundy tights are one of the easiest ways to give your outfit a nod to the winter season. Style with chocolate brown or jet-black layers for an easy ensemble that any editor would commend.

SHOP THE BURGUNDY TIGHTS TREND:

3. BROWN TIGHTS

Style Notes: Ask any fashion person and they'll tell you the same thing—the chocolate brown colour trend is one of the most important of the season. To go all in on the trend pair your tights with chocolaty boots and style with a thick brown knit.

SHOP THE BROWN TIGHTS TREND:

4. GREY TIGHTS

Style Notes: For me, nothing screams cosy like a thick pair of grey tights. Perhaps it's just the memory of stepping into a pair every morning before school, but I find grey tights to be nostalgic, easy to wear, and ultra cosy for these frigid winter days.

SHOP THE GREY TIGHTS TREND:

5. RED TIGHTS

Style Notes: Red tights were a huge trend last winter, but it's clear to see that their reign is far from over. Style with a pretty skirt to give your look a chic and festive touch or wear with a hotpants for a party-ready look.

SHOP THE RED TIGHTS: TREND

6. PINK TIGHTS

Style Notes: Pretty pink shades are having a major moment this winter, and tights are the latest accessory to be treated to a powdery pink makeover. Do it like Iris Law and wear your pair with a matching cardigan, otherwise style with a brown or cream dress for a more-low key take.

SHOP THE PINK TIGHTS TREND:

I don't know about you, but I always find that my wardrobe feels a little small at the start of the winter season.

It’s not that I don’t have great pieces to choose from, it’s just that after months of wearing lighter layers, I’ve fallen out of sync with styling my heavier cold-weather staples. Determined to expand my daily outfit possibilities, I’ve come to realise that tights are the ultimate key to unlocking more of my wardrobe during winter. With the right pair, I can extend the life of my favourite dresses, skirts and even shorts from the warmer months, giving my looks a much-needed refresh.

To make this my chicest winter yet, I turned to a few of my stylish colleagues for their expert advice on the best shoe pairings to wear with tights this season—and the combos to avoid. As always, these are just their opinions—if you like wearing tights with the shoes they don't, that's totally okay!

Keep reading to discover our tips for styling tights and shoes this winter.

4 Shoes Our Editors Aren't Wearing With Tights This Year and 4 They Are

Passing: Trainers

Wearing: Heeled, Knee-High Boots

"Personally, I'd never wear trainers with tights. I think they look cool on other people, so it's not to say this is a hard fashion "rule", but if not done with a certain flair, it can just look scruffy, and I'd prefer not to risk it—especially if it's a white-trainers-and-black-tights situation.

"Aside from sneakers, I'm actually very open-minded when it comes to wearing tights with specific shoe styles, probably because I wear them so much during winter. However, my favourite thing to wear my tights with (especially the black pairs) is a pair of black, heeled, knee-high boots. I'm petite in height, and whilst this is no bad thing, I love how this combination makes my legs and overall silhouette look when I'm wearing short dresses and skirts." – Maxine Eggenberger, deputy editor

SHOP HEELED, KNEE-HIGH BOOTS:

Passing: Loafers

Wearing: Riding Boots

"I wouldn't wear loafers with tights. Firstly, they remind me too much of my school days, but I also find that wearing tights can be uncomfortable because the material is too thin to protect my ankles from the stiffer leather of the shoes. For this reason, I’m far more likely to wear my loafers with chunky socks.

"I will, however, be wearing tights with my riding boots this winter. Not only does this combo look extremely sophisticated, but it also allows me to get much more wear out of the shorts and miniskirts I would usually pack away during the colder months." – Brittany Davy, editorial assistant

SHOP RIDING BOOTS:

Passing: Ballet Flats

Wearing: Pointed-Toe Heels

"There is something extremely chic about the sleek silhouette that a pair of tights and pointed-toe shoes creates. Going together like a white tee and jeans, whenever I want to feel dressed up in winter, I always come back to the fail-safe option of sheer or opaque tights with a pointed-toe heel and a miniskirt or dress.

"I can't say that the idea of tights and ballet flats has ever really crossed my mind. For me, the two exist in different seasonal wardrobes, and whilst I'm happy to wear mesh and leather pumps throughout spring and summer, tights are strictly for cold-weather cosiness. A pretty, delicate slip-on ballet flat doesn't need a grounding pair of tights, not to mention the potential for slippage." – Remy Farrell, shopping editor

SHOP POINTED-TOE HEELS:

Passing: Peep-Toe Shoes

Wearing: Mary Janes

"Whilst I've seen some supremely chic outfits consisting of peep-toe shoes and sheer tights, for me, it's a combination that never feels quite right. I prefer to style my peep-toes with bare legs, so these are some of the few shoes I reserve for the warmer months.

"On the other hand, Mary Janes and cosy tights are my go-to winter pairing. Sturdy enough to tackle puddle-strewn streets, these timeless shoes still feel light and pretty. They’re the perfect match for the knitted dresses and long skirts I love wearing all season long." – Poppy Nash, managing editor

SHOP MARY JANES:

As a ghostly pale Irish person with zero self-tanning skills, I’m always slightly relieved when bare-leg season ends and tights become a necessity. No more blinding passers-by whenever I want to wear a dress! But I know of many reluctant tights-wearers who struggle to figure out which shoes to wear that don't call their school uniform days to mind. Often, boots are the default, but I'm here to tell you there are plenty of other shoe options that look even better with tights than bare legs.

Let's face it—come winter, tights are a must. Yes, you can wear sheer tights that match your skin tone, but there's no beating a 60-denier pair when the temperature drops to single digits. They don't have to be merely a practical addition to your outfits though; as the six outfits below prove, they hold the power to tie your look together and add that air of cosy elegance we all strive for at this time of year.

Keep scrolling to see the best shoes to wear with tights, according to some of Instagram's best-dressed influencers.

THE BEST SHOES TO WEAR WITH TIGHTS IN WINTER, ACCORDING TO A FASHION EDITOR:

1. Loafers

Style Notes: Tights and loafers might bring you back to your GCSE days, but with some chic styling, you can transform the look from school girl to French girl. Look to Parisian influencer Léna Farouil for guidance.

Shop the look:

2. Knee-High Boots

Style Notes: Knee-high boots and black tights were made to be worn together. Honestly, there's no combination that earns me quite so many compliments.

Shop the look:

3. Slingbacks

Style Notes: We are entering party season, after all, so it's worth having an elevated shoe in your arsenal. Slingback kitten heels are peak elegance, and on a practical note, they look great with tights—so you don't have to freeze on your Christmas night out.

Shop the look:

4. Trainers

Style Notes: I never used to wear trainers with tights, but I've seen several fashion people sport the look in a way that feels fresh and effortless. Stick to a darker hue like black or brown to avoid too much contrast.

Shop the look:

5. Ballet Flats

Style Notes: No, we're still not over the ballet flats trend. Is it even a trend any more, or a modern wardrobe staple? Resist stashing your collection in storage for winter and find new ways to wear them, starting with this tights-and-mini-skirt formula.

Shop the look:

6. Biker Boots

Style Notes: If you're going to buy one pair of boots this season, make it a biker style. Influencers and fashion editors have wholly embraced this edgy silhouette, wearing it with everything from tights and skirts to barrel-leg jeans.

Shop the look:

When I was a teenager, my mum would tell me never to throw away any clothing I bought, assuring me that I'd eventually find myself buying the same item all over again—it was just a matter of time.

Whilst my teenage self rejected this idea, it’s now a decade later, and it seems she was onto something. So far, the 2020s have seen a revival of late 2000s and early 2010s style that I honestly didn’t think possible—and Alexa Chung is leading the pack. Styling a pair of relaxed shorts with semi-sheer tights and sleek kitten heels, she just revived an outfit formula that she used to rely on heavily over 10 years ago.

Once heralded as the cool-girl outfit, the mini-shorts-and-tights look epitomised the "Indie Sleaze" aesthetic championed by style icons Chung, and adopted by every Tumblr page that mattered. Worn by the masses with grubby plimsolls, the outfit became something of a go-to look we'd wear everywhere, from attending lectures to sipping on sugary alcoholic drinks in the student union.

Conveying the nonchalant energy that encapsulated the 2010s, micro shorts and tights served as an evergreen outfit solution that young Brits wore all year round. Whilst The Strokes were enjoying their heyday and smudged eyeliner was the only beauty hack worth trying, nothing provided the same satisfaction as pulling on a pair of impossibly small denim cutoffs over a fresh pair of Boots 40 deniers. But as Indie Sleaze slowly fell out of favour, so too did the outfit combination that dominated the scene.

Fast forward, and just like my mum said, the 10-year fashion cycle has kicked into gear. Prada's viral satin miniskirt pioneered the return of micro hemlines, and more recent seasons have seen the brand's playful younger sister push the boundaries of a summer staple we hadn't been giving much attention to. Whilst longline jorts were trending in the major fashion cities, the Miu Miu team was hard at work making the case for shorts so micro they resembled underwear. Blending the risqué with the risk-averse, the Miu Miu A/W 23 runway saw bum-flashing shorts layered over sheer tights and styled with modest cardigans—igniting a revival of each item in the process.

Since Miu Miu gave the combo its new-season makeover, it seems like the runways can't get enough. Dolce & Gabbana, Lapointe and Max Mara showcased their own takes in their A/W 24 collections, whilst Chloé and Buci backed mini shorts sans tights in theirs.

Transitioning off the runways and back into real life, some of the look's original pioneers are back for another round. Moss (pictured below) took a more pared-back and sophisticated approach, opting for leather shorts and sheer tights and finishing her look with sleek pointed-toe heels and a roomy knit. Influenced by a growing preference for minimalist style and easy elegance spearheaded by brands like The Row and Celine, 2026's take on the nostalgic pairing is nothing short of elevated.

Since the shorts-and-tights combination's original heyday, how we (and by "we", I mean those of us who wore it the first time around) express ourselves through fashion has changed drastically. Whilst the Indie Sleaze aesthetic encouraged an undone, messy and laid-back approach to getting dressed, the 2020s and our social-media-first lifestyles call for more finesse—and our clothing choices reflect this. So it's unsurprising that some of our favourite nostalgic trends have received a grown-up glow-up to adhere to our new set of polished, quiet-luxury-age expectations.

As someone who would wear a shorts-and-tights outfit at least once a week throughout my teens, I'm not just ready for another go—I'm completely here for it. With a growing soft spot for the leather shorts I've been seeing everywhere this season and my unwavering love for Alexa Chung's style, read on to discover my edit of the best shorts and tights on the market to wear together right now.

Stylish Shorts and Tights Outfit Inspiration:

Shop the Best Shorts and Tights:

Why Trust Us

At Who What Wear UK, fashion is our speciality. Our editors have years of industry experience, from reporting on seasonal fashion trends seen at international fashion weeks to working with some of the most recognisable names in fashion. Every item we recommend is carefully selected based on current trends, quality and real-world wearability.

We regularly try on pieces ourselves—everything from best-selling jeans to designer shoes—and speak to external experts and fashion insiders, staying closely connected to what our readers are searching for. Our advice is grounded in expertise, and each and every buy we feature has to meet our exceptional taste standards—so you can feel confident in every recommendation.

Victoria Beckham's new favourite accessory is an unexpected yet classic item you might already have tucked away at the bottom of a draw. An avid fan of an all-black-ensemble, Beckham has been known to fall back on a black-dress-and-shoes combo time and again, so we weren't surprised to see her wearing a smart evening look in her favourite shade. What did catch our eye, however, was her subtle styling of something surprising that you can buy from Marks & Spencer or H&M for only £10.

For an evening out in New York, Beckham dressed up her black, flute-sleeved maxi dress and peep-toe shoes with a pair of fishnet tights. For their associations with old-Hollywood movie stars such as Marilyn Monroe, and an enduring popularity which traces back to the 1920s, fishnet tights are a hosiery staple that never really go out of style, though we never really seem wear them. Their popularity has surged during certain periods, and thanks to VB, right now seems like it's about to be one of those times. Perhaps it's because of the ‘90s revival that continues to dominate fashion, but we predict fishnet tights will be the latest accessories trend to take off this season.

With their spider-web design, there’s no better time to style the classic hosiery item than late October amid the lead-up to halloween. Fishnets aren't just for spooky costumes though—these tights add a dramatic element to any outfit. They'll work perfectly throughout autumn with knee-high boots for a casual look, or wear them dressed up with peep-toe shoes à la Beckham herself. It's official: Classic fishnet tights are ideal for adding an unexpected finishing touch to an evening-ready outfit. 

Read on to shop our favourite fishnet tights below.

SHOP THE BEST BLACK DRESSES AND FISHNET TIGHTS:

Next Up: Victoria Beckham Just Wore the Dress Trend That's All Over H&M and Zara

If Kendall Jenner's recent street style looks prove anything, it's that, like me, she hasn't stopped thinking about Bottega Veneta's S/S 23 collection since it debuted in September. For the second time in recent history, the model has been spotted donning head-to-toe looks from Creative Director Matthieu Blazy's second collection for the Italian brand, both of which feature one of the year's most talked-about (and cheapest) accessories—sheer tights. In the case of her latest Bottega Veneta outfit, they were red tights. 

To attend a post-Grammys event on Sunday evening, Jenner dressed up in look 49 from the runway collection, which was made up of a burgundy-and-tan suede minidress, black pumps, a matching mini Sardine bag, and gold teardrop earrings. Gorgeous on its own, the outfit was enhanced even further with the addition of a simple pair of dark-red tights that can easily be copied for £8. 

From the brand that brought us Jenner's other Bottega Veneta tights look comes an almost identical pair of maroon 50 denier tights capable of getting you her look for next to nothing. Below, shop the exact pair and more red hosiery—a trend I'm predicting a large turnout for during next week's New York Fashion Week festivities. 

On Kendall Jenner: Bottega Veneta dress, shoes, bag, and earrings

The £8 red tights you need to get Jenner's look:

Shop more red tights and socks:

Coming up next: The Unreal Beauty Looks From The Grammys Red Carpet You Just Can't Miss

When the no-trouser trend appeared on the runway in September, I knew right away that it would be controversial and, therefore, a huge hit in fashion. Moreover, when brands such as Victoria Beckham, Bottega Veneta, and Khaite are the ones responsible, you know a trend has legs—pun intended. With none other than Kendall Jenner having just debuted the buzzed-about look that started it all, it appears my predictions were spot-on. 

Seen in L.A. between shoots for the luxury retailer Fwrd, where she's creative director, Jenner wore a chunky navy-blue sweater with black briefs and heels—no trousers in sight. The bottomless ensemble came practically straight off Matthieu Blazy's Bottega Veneta S/S 23 runway, besides the heels which are Saint Laurent, her tights, which came from Calzedonia, and her giant bouquet of sunflowers, which presumably came from the farmers market. 

On Kendall Jenner: Bottega Veneta Orecchini Earrings (£362), Sardine Intrecciato Napa Top-Handle Bag (£2930), and sweater; Calzedonia 20 Denier Essential Invisible Tights (£18); Saint Laurent Kendall 90 Silk-Satin Slingback Pumps (£600)

Though entirely impractical for a busy day of errands and shoots, Jenner managed to make wearing underwear with nothing but tights work. More than that, she made me and everyone I know want to do the same (see my Instagram DMs after I shared this photo for proof). Also proving that the look could be spun for evening too, Kendall made a quick change into a Commando turtleneck and briefs for a dinner look that makes more of a statement than the tried and tested LBD.

On Kendall Jenner: Commando High Rise Stretch Briefs, Calzedonia 20 Denier Essential Invisible Tights (£18); Saint Laurent Kendall 90 Silk-Satin Slingback Pumps (£600)

So, if you like me, are even more on board with the trouser-less trend after seeing it off the runway, keep scrolling shop the look below. 

Shop Kendall's Exact Look:

Shop the Look for Less:

Next Up: Trousers Are Out, and Underwear Is In—6 Risqué Runway Looks That Prove It

This story originally appeared on Who What Wear U.S and has since been updated.

In addition to simple, pared-down looks on the spring 2023 runways, the latest fashion season also offered up its fair share of more risqué ensembles, one of which involves ditching trousers entirely and wearing underwear—only. Even more surprising, though, was how alluring the trend turned out to be. Rather than over-the-top or showy, designers like Matthieu Blazy at Bottega Veneta and Victoria Beckham showcased the trouserless look in the most high-brow of manners.

What levelled up the concept was the way in which it was styled on the runways, which I suggest you take note of for when you test out the trend IRL. At both of the aforementioned presentations, models ditched trousers and wore just tights instead, paired with classic heels and either a simple knit (at Bottega Veneta) or a lace bra and tailored blazer (at Victoria Beckham).

In contrast, Miu Miu Creative Director Miuccia Prada used long, layered T-shirts and knee-high open-toe boots to create the illusion that going out sans trousers was no big deal. At Del Core, thigh-high stockings provided just enough coverage to make a bodysuit (and only a bodysuit) suitable for everyday, and at Coperni, a cropped blazer was made to turn high-rise black briefs into a put-together ensemble. 

All that's to say if you were planning on investing heavily in trousers come spring, don't. Or at least, don't buy so many that you can't afford a few pairs of show-worthy panties and snag-proof tights. I promise they'll come in handy because the trouserless trend, no matter how impractical, is here to stay.

Though it might not feel natural at first to go without bottoms, this season's runways provided everything you need to get well acquainted with the styling method and, better yet, make it appear to be the most casual and natural way of dressing. From layered-on, longline T-shirts made to appear minidress-like at Miu Miu to a crisp, tailored blazer worn with nothing but high-rise briefs at Coperni, it's clear that there's no one right way to style this bottomless trend. 

1. Panties Worth Showing Off

For those of you who refuse to go trouserless entirely (I see you and I feel you), designers such as Blazy at Bottega Veneta and Victoria Beckham offered up another route for navigating this trend: Just throw on some tights. Tights aren't trousers—I know that. But they definitely provide an additional layer of fabric and modesty to a trend that doesn't include too much of either. Plus, if you pick a cool, patterned pair, they tend to add an interesting and unexpected touch to any top half of an ensemble. 

2. Hosiery That Stands on Its Own

As with most styling trends, shoes play a big role in the culmination of the overall look. For this particular one, the runways would suggest that black heels, from open-toe sandals to point-toe pumps, are the move. 

3. Classic Black Heels Are the Final Touch

Next: 11 Major Shoe Trends That Will Be Everywhere This Winter

This piece originally appeared on Who What Wear U.S. and has since been updated.

It felt like autumn happened almost overnight. One minute we were soaking up the heat in sundresses and sandals and the next, a fresh wind had set in heralding the official end of bare-legged season. But don't get us wrong, this isn't a lament to the end of summer, it's actually a welcome to the next best thing. Autumn is the best time for dressing up and the official start to party season, and while you might be missing the heatwaves that dominated July and August, the new few months are about to be your best-dressed and cosiest yet.

We love dressing up and heading out, and as our social calendars are steadily filling ahead of birthdays, dinners, Christmas and New Year, the first thing on the agenda is finding something to wear that will look good and keep you warm, and thankfully we just found the answer, so don't pack away your mini skirt quite yet. 

For those who aren't already familiar with Heist's brand of premium hosiery, shapewear and underwear, allow us to introduce you to the only staples your underwear drawer will ever need. You can find tights in every denier, colour and finish, supportive shapewear to create the smoothest possible silhouette, and plenty of underwear so comfortable that you'll forget you're wearing anything at all, perfect for a night spend throwing shapes (and lounging around the morning after). 

The latest additions to Heist's already extensive range are Coloured Tights and Skinwear by Heist, perfect for the party season ahead. So with the thought of some very exciting evening outfits in mind, we've thought of 4 game changing hacks that will instantly make your party clothes look and feel better. You can thank us later. 

1. BRIGHT TIGHTS 

Breathe new life into a little black dress with a bold new upgrade–a pair of colourful tights. From soft pastels to punchy neons, jewel tones to subtle hues, you needn't to fork out on a whole new outfit when a pop of colour and a metallic heel can change your entire look in just one step. 

2. CREATE THE RIGHT BASE

We've all fiddled with the ill-fitting bra and suffered VPL in the wrong briefs, and the best way to stay comfortable is to build your outfit on a foundation that you can rely on. The Skinwear collection is made from supersoft, luxury micromodal fabric that behaves like second skin. Silky, breathable and absorbent, the plant-based cotton alternative is resistant to shrinkage and pilling, so you can get on with the important part–making the most of your evening. 

3. TRY A VERSATILE BODY

If you don't already own a bodysuit, take this as your sign. Not only can it be seamlessly worn under just about anything you own to create smoother, supported silhouette, but it looks pretty good on it's own too. If you're struggling for ideas on how to meet a smart-casual dress code, our best advance is a blazer, jeans, bodysuit and a heel. It's the easy kind of outfit formula that will never let you down.

4. LEGGINGS AS EVENINGWEAR

The '80s called, and leggings are back. You might have stocked up on plenty of stretchy leisurewear during the last couple of years spent indoors, but it's time to dust off your leggings for the outside too. No longer relegated to lounging and lazy weekends, the legging is proving itself to be a dressy option too, as street style pics of some of fashions most stylish suggest that leggings + heels is the new cool-girl combination we didn't know we needed. 

Up Next, I'm a Fashion Editor, and This Is the One Accessory I Wear on Repeat in Autumn

I don't know about you, but I've been looking forward to season two of Bridgerton since the minute I finished binging the first one back in December 2020. Now, my TV prayers have been answered and the new episodes are set to drop on Netflix this Friday, March 25.

Like the book it's based on, the second season introduces a completely new storyline with new main characters, giving us a chance to obsess over fresh talent. Simone Ashley and Charithra Chandra play sisters Kate and Edwina, who are in a love triangle with Jonathan Bailey's character Anthony. At the season two premiere red carpet, Ashley wore a Gucci outfit complete with a sheer skirt, lace thigh-high tights, an exposed midriff, and a ruffled neckline. That's a lot of trends in one look, but Ashley pulled it off with ease. Scroll down to see what everyone wore to the premiere. 

WHO: Simone Ashley 

WEAR: Gucci outfit

WHO: Charithra Chandra

WEAR: Carolina Herrera dress

WHO: Shonda Rhimes

WEAR: Carolina Herrera dress

WHO: Rina Lipa

WHO: Camille Charriere 

WEAR: Saint Laurent dress

Shop Tights, Hold-Ups, and Socks