Guide to tights

In an era where bare legs are in, it can be tough for lovers of tights and hosiery to find something fabulous to cover their legs in. Tights have been evolving all the time not just in material that manages to give a sheer, superfine look -and incidentally there is a new range in now, called natural, which is so fine that your legs look bare - but also in prints and styles.

So let’s take a look at the choices.

Soft Tights that Feel Good

Today’s tights are a treat for your legs. When you’re deciding what to go for you will be spoiled for choice. Vibrant colours, strong prints, subtle shades and original designs have turned the humble pair of tights into a bold statement of sartorial excellence.

Combine a plain black look, for example with a pair of purple floral tights and suddenly your ‘little black dress’ has been transformed into a head-turning, attention-getting megawattage outfit.

Go for a short, short skirt and a pair of natural tights with either close-toed shoes or low-cut boots and the only way for those looking at you to realize that your superfine, perfect legs are actually covered by tights is for them to touch them!

The tights you choose, in short, are no longer just an afterthought, the cheapest item in your ensemble. They have the ability to subtly alter the balance of power, transforming a low-key outfit to something absolutely stunning and vice versa, the wrong choice can transform an expensive look into a mismatch that fails to work its magic.

Bold patterns and single colours

Pretty Polly have been leading the way here with some fantastic patterns and an exciting range of single colour tights that are designed to make your legwear the centre of attention.

The online world is full of choices however so shop around, particularly if you are looking for something very specific and need to get it just right. Single colour tights work wonders both as complementary to your clothes, matching your outfit and shoes and as contrasting for a really bold look.

On the contrast side however beware. Careful what you are contrasting and the overall look you achieve. Contrasts work best when they are startling but simple, evidence that you know what you are doing rather than an example of a look to avoid.

Accessories for Everyone

If bold colors and vivid patterns aren't your thing, don't worry, there are plenty of options for the fans of more subtle legwear and with an amazing selection of plus-size and fishnet hosiery, unique ties, gloves and shoelaces - there's really something for everyone online.