Style

Your hot holiday look, courtesy of tights

Fashion's current ‘it item’ is the only thing you need to revamp your wardrobe.

Fashion's current ‘it item’ is the only thing you need to revamp your wardrobe

3 models wearing tights on the runway of fashion shows.
Terrific tights seen on Fall 2023 runways are partly why they’re so hot right now. L-R: Alaïa, Miu Miu, Marc Jacobs (Credit, middle: Estrop/Getty Images; Source, left: Alaïa; right: Marc Jacobs )

Buying a new outfit for a holiday outing is so passé. Especially when you can breathe new life into your LBD from holiday parties past with a simple pair of tights. From elevating your ensemble with an embellished pair to injecting old looks with a jolt of a trending colour, here are seven ways to wear tights this festive season.

All that glitters

'Tis the season to shine! Embrace the holiday sparkle aesthetic by opting for glittery or metallic tights. Take a cue from Alex Perry and rock a bedazzled pair, or dare to be bold like Zendaya and go for an all-over glimmer effect (try pairing subtly sparkling tights with earrings or other details that may glint in the light). However you rock this look, let the tights take centre stage and pair them with neutral tones that won't pull focus from your legs.

Make it monochromatic

Opt for a matchy ensemble by wearing tights in the same shade as your outfit. This classic styling approach is a hit for a reason: it elongates the silhouette. You can't go wrong with the classic all-black option, but might we suggest taking a more festive all-red approach, à la Lauren Chan?

Look Ma, no pants!

From Miu Miu to mood boards, the no-pants trend has graced everyone's social media feeds this season, and the look can even be achieved with a pair of everyday pantyhose. Ditch the conventional party attire and don a statement undergarment paired with opaque black tights for a "barely there" effect. Feeling shy? Dip your toes into this trend by pairing a bodysuit with sequined shorts or a statement coat; playing with layers is the key to making the look more wearable.

Go for a logo 

Make a statement without saying a word by choosing tights adorned with brand names, logos or motifs. Juxtapose punchy pantyhose like these with a pared-back outfit. Now that's quiet luxury made loud and clear.

Dainty details

Add a touch of whimsy to your attire by incorporating tights adorned with charming bow details. Pair them with flowy silhouettes like a frilly skirt to amplify the feminine charm. Or, fuse sweet with sultry: wear delicate lace tights with a structured top for a contrasting effect.

All eyes on knee-highs 

Make the schoolgirl-chic look holiday-ready by opting for knee-highs in festive colours or embellished with ribbons. This is the perfect ensemble for mixing and matching, so experiment with different textures. For example, mix sheers with opaque fabrics to add visual interest and dimension. 

Colour block

While there's no denying that simply wearing bright tights is a look, take it to the next level by strategically colour blocking. The contrast of a vibrant pair matched with neutral-toned pieces creates instant visual interest. Jazz up a classic black skirt with a pair of red-hot tights, or strike a balance by pairing a neon dress with a complementary shade like white or black. Or mix up colours by going with a pair of ombré tights.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Jennifer Nguyen is a Toronto-based writer specializing in equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI). She covers the intersection of EDI with fashion, travel and culture. You can find her on Instagram and TikTok at @jennifercruznguyen and read more of her work at jennifercnguyen.com.

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