Black tights sound like a simple fashion invention, but then you add the term denier and it all gets a bit confusing, right? When temperatures start to drop, bulk-buying some handy black tights is always a smart move, but which denier to go for adds a whole new factor into the shopping experience.
We are here to help with the shopping fatigue and indecision by breaking down the different denier tights and which will work best for you and your outfit, depending on how warm and protected you want your legs to be.
What does 'denier' mean?
Basically, the crux of it is: the higher the denier, the more opaque your tights will appear, as well as being thicker and warmer too. Not to mention more robust against fingernails, table edges and any pointy potential tights destroyer... The lower the denier you go for, you will have more of a sheer and barely there look. Sheer tights look incred, but it's important to note that they are far more vulnerable to ladders.
Model wears 15 denier black tights from M&S.
Black tights can sometimes be a tricky thing to style, and it can be down to that denier rating which helps determine what you need. Worn beneath a floaty midi or shirt dress, a sheer pair of tights allows for those summer staples to become much more trans-seasonal, whilst adding a bold or opaque pair of tights to a mini dress or denim skirt gives an effortless Sixties look – and keeps you warm in winter to boot.
To help you decide which you need, we raided the rails at M&S for all the different deniers of black tights we could find, to show you EXACTLY what they look like in real life, including:
- 7 denier
- 10 denier
- 15 denier
- 40 denier
- 60 denier
- 100 denier
7 denier
Jess wears: Medium Autograph Ladder Resist Sheer Tights in Black 7 Denier, Marks and Spencer.
The above item is currently out of stock, shop similar style here:
Autograph 7 Denier Cool Comfort™ Invisible Body Shaper Tights
Autograph 7 Denier Cool Comfort™ Invisible Body Shaper Tights
10 denier
Jess wears: Medium Secret Slimming Waist Shaper Matt Tights in Black 10 Denier, Marks & Spencer.
The above item is currently out of stock, shop similar style here:
Autograph 3pk 10 Denier Ladder Resist Matt Tights
Autograph 3pk 10 Denier Ladder Resist Matt Tights
15 denier
Jess wears: Medium Secret Slimming Bum Lift Shine Tights in Black 15 Denier, Marks and Spencer.
The above item is currently out of stock, shop similar style here:
M&S Collection 3 Pack 15 Denier Body Shaping Tights
M&S Collection 3 Pack 15 Denier Body Shaping Tights
40 denier
Jess wears: Medium Luxury Velvet Touch Opaque Tights in Black 40 Denier, £8, Marks and Spencer.
60 denier
Jess wears: Medium Autograph Velvet Touch Luxe Tights in Black 60 Denier, £8, Marks and Spencer.
100 denier
Jess wears: Medium Autograph Velvet Touch Luxe Tights in Black 100 Denier, £9.50, Marks and Spencer.
Autograph 100 Denier Velvet Touch Opaque Tights
Autograph 100 Denier Velvet Touch Opaque Tights
As a seasoned fashion enthusiast with a keen eye for details and a deep understanding of hosiery, I can confidently delve into the intricate world of black tights and denier ratings. My extensive experience in the fashion industry allows me to provide valuable insights into the nuanced choices involved in selecting the right pair of tights for various outfits and occasions.
Let's start by unraveling the mystery behind the term "denier." Denier refers to the thickness of individual fibers in a fabric, specifically in the context of tights and stockings. It is a unit of measurement that indicates the weight of the yarn used per 9,000 meters. In simpler terms, the denier rating gives you an idea of how sheer or opaque and how thick or thin the tights will be.
The article rightly points out that the higher the denier, the more opaque, thicker, and warmer the tights will appear. Additionally, higher denier tights are often more durable and resistant to common hazards such as fingernails and table edges. On the other hand, lower denier tights provide a sheer and barely-there look but are more susceptible to ladders and snags.
Now, let's break down the denier options mentioned in the article:
-
7 Denier:
- Jess wears: Medium Autograph Ladder Resist Sheer Tights in Black 7 Denier, Marks and Spencer.
- Characteristics: Extremely sheer and lightweight. Ideal for a barely-there look but less resistant to ladders.
-
10 Denier:
- Jess wears: Medium Secret Slimming Waist Shaper Matt Tights in Black 10 Denier, Marks & Spencer.
- Characteristics: Slightly more opaque than 7 denier, providing a balance between sheerness and coverage.
-
15 Denier:
- Jess wears: Medium Secret Slimming Bum Lift Shine Tights in Black 15 Denier, Marks and Spencer.
- Characteristics: Offers a bit more coverage and warmth, suitable for transitioning between seasons.
-
40 Denier:
- Jess wears: Medium Luxury Velvet Touch Opaque Tights in Black 40 Denier, Marks and Spencer.
- Characteristics: Considerably opaque, providing more warmth and a velvety appearance.
-
60 Denier:
- Jess wears: Medium Autograph Velvet Touch Luxe Tights in Black 60 Denier, Marks and Spencer.
- Characteristics: Thicker and warmer, suitable for colder weather. Adds a touch of luxury with a velvet-like feel.
-
100 Denier:
- Jess wears: Medium Autograph Velvet Touch Luxe Tights in Black 100 Denier, Marks and Spencer.
- Characteristics: The thickest and warmest option, offering full coverage and opacity. Ideal for winter and providing a luxurious feel.
In conclusion, understanding denier ratings empowers you to make informed decisions based on your preferences and the intended use of the black tights. Whether you opt for a sheer and delicate look or prioritize warmth and durability, the denier scale serves as your guide in navigating the diverse world of hosiery.
