Laws of Couture: Lovely Legs: Colored and Textured Tights

Fogal
Saks

This Fall and Winter go just a little wild with colored and textured tights. A pop of color or touch of eye-catching texture adds dimension and glamour to any look. So squeeze a few more weeks out of your Spring and Summer dresses by adding a cozy pair--just check out my Dos and Don'ts before you do!

Colored, opaque tights are the perfect way to spice up an otherwise ordinary outfit. They’ll provide a pop of unexpected color and playfulness! Pretty much any color goes here, although deep, dark, and jewel-tone shades tend to be the most popular winter choices. Since these hues tend to be fairly neutral, they look great under pretty much anything. In warmer seasons, expect to see vibrant brights in anything from neon yellow to hot pink. Outfits with otherwise neutral tones look amazing with bright accents. Even a high-waisted skirt and a plain tee get a makeover with their addition! If you’re fearless with fashion, bright tights are the way to go.

The textured tights category encompasses lace, fishnet, and patterned varieties – so there’s a lot to choose from if you want to rock this trend. You can never go wrong with classic black patterned tights for a sophisticated look! They’re perfect, for example, to provide coverage under your favorite mini-dress in a more conservative setting.

Textured tights are also a great replacement for your go-to leggings because they’re usually a bit thicker than other varieties, and add pretty detail to your outfits. Depending on the level of detail you choose, textured tights can either totally make your look as a focal point, or simply complement what you’re wearing without stealing the show.

That being said, remember to keep your textured tights the focus in your outfit for the most clean and sophisticated look – don’t mix patterned clothes with them, unless an eclectic look is what you’re going for.

DO: Make it all about your legs by having your gorgeous gams be the main attraction. Pick a hemline that shows off your legs--and add a high heel that makes 'em look even longer. Stick with a neutral palette (classic black and white is a great backdrop for this look), or at least opt for one pop of color, not four or five. And don't forget to strut your stuff with serious confidence.

DON'T: Let things get too busy. Don't have so much going on in your outfit that the tights look like just one piece of a pretty confusing puzzle.