No.3 Tight Ends: Everything You'll Ever Need to Know About How to Wear Tights - Women Compus - Women Campus

The easiest way to incorporate a great pair of textured tights into your wardrobe is to simply resist the urge to grab that plain old black pair when you get dressed. Wearing a sweater dress and flats to class? Forget black leggings or plain tights, a subtle pattern will instantly add flair to your everyday looks.

All styles are available online at Forever21.com and prices start at just $4 a pair!

Leggings or tights? Thick or thin?

Sure, it’s easy for me to tell every collegiette™ to push those black leggings to the back of a drawer and fully commit to tights, but I know that isn’t very realistic. There is a reason why comfy leggings have been a favorite of women for decades, and will undoubtedly continue to be for years to come. Here are some occasions when it’s completely ok to slip on those leggings instead of a great pair of tights.

• If you wouldn’t wear the outfit with bare legs. Although it seems like common sense, give yourself one last look in the mirror before walking out in tights and a too-short dress or not-quite-long-enough shirt. If your upper thighs aren’t covered, reach for a pair of leggings.
• If you work with kids or animals. No matter how careful you are it’s impossible to predict what a day with a toddler or a puppy will bring. Leggings are much more durable and aren’t as prone to rips and runs as hosiery is.
• For a day on the slopes. Are you planning on skiing or snowboarding this winter? How about sledding? If you’re going to be out in the cold weather for an extended amount of time, opt for leggings. Even the thickest pair of tights isn’t as warm as thick leggings are.

If none of the above applies, then tights are definitely an outfit must-have for day or night! As you’re shopping, you’ll notice that packages are marked either ‘Opaque’ or ‘Semi-Opaque’. In almost every instance, you should reach for the completely opaque option – they are much more modern and stylish. Semi-opaque pairs have become dated and can also be much less flattering because they don’t always flatter your skin tone. The only semi-opaque hosiery a girl may need in her closet is a skin-toned hue for formal occasions or job interviews.

Opaque tights can range from super-thick knit wool to light, thin cotton. With so many affordable options, these choices really just come down to your own preference! Some girls love the feel of warm, chunky tights – but for some, the thick fabric can feel uncomfortable. The easiest way to determine what pair will be best for an outfit is to compare styles. A silky black mini-dress will look out of place with a pair of gray knit tights. But those knit tights will look amazing with a comfy sweater dress and flat boots.