Trend Alert: Tights!

I’ve been reading my fashion magazines and blogs avidly, of course, and the thing I’m most excited about for the coming Fall and Winter is… tights!  This year, shoppers will be presented with dozens of varieties of hosiery in different colors, patterns, thicknesses, etc. 

Pop Culture

The emphasis on legwear can definitely be traced to popular culture. For several years now, the outfits of Gossip Girl’s Serena van der Woodsen and Blair Waldorf have been revved up with great legwear.  More recently, the Middleton ladies have received attention for their decision to wear nylons, something considered a bit unnecessary and even passé by many.  Though not a huge fan of nude hosiery myself, I am embracing this new spotlight on tights!

New Collection

Speaking of Gossip Girl, the show’s costume designer, Eric Daman, is teaming up this year with DKNY to release a capsule collection of hosiery.  The legwear will be priced affordably, at $15 - $24, and will come in a variety of fun patterns and lengths.  You can shop the collection this fall in stores or online with DKNY, Bloomingdale’s and Nordstrom.

Affordable Basics

Hue brand is my go-to favorite for basic black tights because they are of great quality.  Instead of coughing up department store prices, I pay about $10 for a two pack at stores like T.J. Maxx, Marshall’s or Filene’s Basement. 

Mix & Match

I usually wear skirts to work, so tights are already a staple for me in the winter.  Obviously they are great because they keep you warm, but they also provide shape and support, and add an additional style element to your outfit!  I’m always tempted to wear plain black tights, but things get much more interesting when you incorporate different tones and designs.  Navy is a great color to start with, as it’s not a bright hue and will pair well with most colors.

This year, there will be no shortage of places to purchase your new assortment of tights!  I found a surprisingly comprehensive selection of tights at the local convenience store!  And wow, check out this crazy wall of tights in seemingly every shade at American Apparel!

Sleek & Chic

Probably my biggest hesitation with tights is that I’m worried that too much pattern will somehow flatten my figure and make me look bigger.  Eek!  We don’t want that.  First of all, unless you’re model-thin, stay away from any horizontal pattern but definitely go for vertical stripes as they will be thinning!  Second, when opting for a patterned tight, most of your options will be in black.  This is good, because black is flattering on its own.  Wear funkier black tights with black heels – this will elongate the leg – problem solved!  Oh and… have fun!