By mid-November of every year, I start to feel like I’m dressing for survival instead of style. My wardrobe quickly becomes a rotation of wool trousers, Uniqlo Heattech t-shirts, boatneck tops, and sneakers. But somewhere around this point, right before I give up all hope and hide in a puffer jacket until spring, I remember that tights exist, and all is well again.
To be clear, I’m not talking about black tights, even though, just like nude thongs, I believe everyone should own at least two pairs. I’m talking about statement tights — tights with personality, tights with embellishments and ruffles. I’m talking about colorful tights in ’70s-inspired patterns, sexy animal print tights, tights with a hint of shimmer. Basically, what I’m saying is, if you find yourself stuck in a style rut this season, statement tights are your cold-weather savior. And unlike other accessories, they cost about as much as a Sweetgreen salad and a Diet Coke. Recession indicator, much?
Of course, like most things I’ve covered here at Betches Style, statement tights aren’t new. Anyone who lived through the early 2010s remembers them being an essential part of any “it girl’s” uniform. At the Chanel Fall/Winter 2010 show, Alexa Chung layered cycling shorts over a pair of sheer polka dot tights; Sky Ferreira famously bled through a pair of embellished Saint Laurent tights while opening for Miley Cyrus on the Bangerz tour (the singer had to get 60 stitches, but she at least she did it in style). Meanwhile on Skins, everybody’s favorite teen femme-fatale Effy Stonem (played by Kaya Scodelario) always wore a pair of fishnet tights, usually styled with a mini dress and leather jacket.
While I’m all for reviving a sexy, soft-grunge moment, there are ways to style tights so that they don’t scream “former Tumblr teen.” For example, instead of ripped tights with denim cutoffs (I was sent to the administration office multiple times for this look when I was in high school), try a pair of micro fishnets under a vintage wool skirt with riding boots. Instead of sticking to just plain black tights, try tights in jewel tones, dainty pastels, or punchy, vibrant neons (my hot take is that wearing lots of clashing colors or patterns is just as punk as wearing all black).
But if you’re still not sure how to style your statement tights this fall and winter, here are some outfit formulas:
- Ribbed blue tights + Mary Janes + trench coat buttoned to the top
I’m very inspired by the Miu Miu Fall/Winter 2024 collection, which featured lots of grandma brooches, leather gloves, and colorful tights. Ribbed tights are super warm and practical, and I love the idea of pairing them with sweet little Mary Janes, a khaki trench or shrunken knitted peacoat, and edgy statement sunglasses. This pair looks super warm and cozy, but if you’re not ready to commit to the color, try this gray Heattech version from Uniqlo. - Black lace tights + micro shorts + chunky sweater – this is so sexy and so easy to pull off. If you’re not into a chunky sweater, you can always throw on a reliable oversized blazer à la Hailey Bieber. Wear this with over-the-knee boots or silver sling-backs, tousle your hair a little, and you’re ready for date night. Try this pair from Urban Outfitters, or this burgundy pair from Calzedonia for a subtle pop of color.
- Tartan tights + mini dress + pointed kitten heels
If you’re already thinking about what you’re going to wear to Friendsgiving this year, put the corduroy button-front skirt down. Instead, consider a pair of tartan tights (maybe even a mismatched plaid pair, like TikTok user @sineadgannon did here) with a simple mini dress. I’m also obsessed with Lily-Rose Depp’s geeky argyle tights, which she paired with a sheer, long-sleeved LBD and dainty jewelry. - Red tights + red blazer + red shoes – Princess Diana wore red tights under a red suit with red shoes in 1985. Jenna Ortega wore red tights with red shoes and a burgundy blazer with a red lapel in 2024. If two of the people’s princesses can embrace a monochromatic red tights look, so can you. Try this opaque scarlet pair from Los Angeles Apparel, or this gorgeous maroon pair from Target.
And if you’re looking for more statement tights, here are a few more solid options:
- Urban Outfitters LECHERY Shiny 20 Denier Sheer Tights ($11.25-$17.49) – Look at how these catch the light! Definitely get these in gray or blue.
- MeMoí Classic Large-Print Argyle Sweater Tights ($24) – This photo of Anya Taylor-Joy lives rent free in my mind, especially her argyle tights and big ass silly hat. I believe these tights are Miu Miu, but this pair from MeMoí is a great alternative if you want to recreate this look.
- Los Angeles Apparel Sparkle Pantyhose ($18) – These are a great option for New Year’s Eve…and birthday parties…and the club….
- Swedish Stockings Mila Ruffle Tights ($27.50) – Okay, yes, these are at a slightly higher price point, but these add delicious texture and dimension to any monochromatic winter look.
