Your Guide to Types of Tights and Stockings

• Sheer (up to 20): very sheer and lightweight 10 or 15 denier tights are ideal for warmer days, although they can be more prone to ladders and snags.

• Semi-sheer (20-40): a little more durable than low denier tights, semi-sheer tights offer more coverage for a smooth and even look. For everyday wear, opt for 20 or 40 denier tights.

• Opaque (40-80): thick and almost entirely opaque, 40 and 60 high-denier tights provide extra warmth in the colder months.

• Very opaque (80 and above): The thickest tights available, opaque tights like 100 denier, offer the most warmth and are sometimes lined with fleece for winter.

• Sheer tights: great for workwear and special occasions, sheer tights mimic the look of bare skin for a smoothing effect.

• Opaque tights: thicker and more durable than sheer tights, opaque tights provide extra warmth during autumn and winter.

• Shaping tights: for a sculpting effect, opt for shaping tights with control panels built in – ideal for wearing with occasionwear.

• Knee highs: to get the look of tights without the constricting waistband, opt for knee-high tights underneath midi skirts or trousers.

• Patterned and fishnet tights: add some visual interest to your outfit with a pair of fashion tights. Go for delicate floral lace, daring animal print or timeless fishnets.

• Hold-ups and stockings: hold-ups often come with built-in silicone or elastic to keep them up, while stockings require a suspender belt to hold them in place.

Special moments like weddings and events often call for wearing tights under your occasionwear. Opt for sheer, lightweight tights that look like bare skin as not to distract from your showstopping ensemble.

For day-to-day workwear, comfort and durability are essential. Layer semi-sheer tights with a classic pencil skirt or team knee-high tights with a breezy pair of wide-leg trousers. During the colder months, style a pair of black, opaque tights with a playful mini dress and chunky knitwear.

Pro tip: avoid any snags when putting your tights on by removing all rings and making sure your fingernails aren’t sharp. Roll the tights all the way down to the toe then slowly unroll them as you slide them on.