Sheer, thick, fleece-lined, or wool...picking tights can be tough! Read my guide so you know exactly what you're getting.
- ByAndrea
- December 20, 2018
- Fashion Tips, Packing Tips
Do you get overwhelmed when picking tights at the store? Between figuring out fabric, style, and denier, as well as deciphering your size based on height and weight, it can be challenging to find the perfect tights for your winter outfits.
The Fabric
Here are a few tips: natural fabrics like silk and wool are great for warmth but are more expensive. They also have the downside of being fragile and wool can pill fairly quickly. You’ll want to choose wool blended with synthetic
because having some lycra in your tights will make them fit more snuggly and stay up better.
Microfibre tights give the smoothest look and for a warm synthetic alternative, look for fleece-lined tights which are super affordable and easy to find now.
The Knit
If you’re looking for something uber durable, you’ll want to look at the tightness of the knit. Keep in mind, natural fibres might have a looser knit, while brands like Sheertex specialize in a knit technology that makes them indestructible.
The Thickness
Denier is
tights what thread count is to sheets. Denier is the weight of the fabric in your tights, stockings, and hosiery. Usually, the heavier and thicker the material, the higher the denier. Denier around 10 is what you’ll see on nylons or sheer tights, which are lighter and traditionally dressier.
For semi-sheer, choose 20-40 denier, and 40+ is opaque and generally more resistant to tears. More luxe brands have managed to create sheer tights that are as resistant as 40+ denier tights, but these are harder to find.
So far, my
affordable tights are the 150 denier opaque tights from Ardene, the 2-pack 200 denier H&M tights, and some merino wool tights I got at Simons. I also love these footless merino tights from Wool&.
The Size
Most tights come is sized XS-XL but finding where you fall on that spectrum can be tricky. There is usually a size guide on the back that cross-references your height and weight. Don’t be afraid to size up, especially if your tights have a fair amount of elastane. For more information, read up on size guides here.
Many tights are now high-waisted and feature control-top design (like Spanx). Just keep in mind, our bodies weren’t designed to be confined for hours on end! If you’re starting to feel sick, maybe you’ve been wearing your tights too long.
Good luck and stay warm!
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I travel a lot for business and love sharing my tips. I'm obsessed with French expressions, English puns, and packing the perfect carry-on.
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Hi, my name is Andrea and I'm an entrepreneur and content creator. I'm obsessed with packing light without sacrificing an ounce of style. Follow my adventures as I share my tips for curating the perfect travel capsule wardrobe that fits in a carry-on!
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As a seasoned traveler, entrepreneur, and content creator with a passion for packing light and maintaining style, I've accumulated extensive knowledge about various aspects of fashion and travel. When it comes to the topic of winter tights, my expertise shines through, thanks to years of firsthand experience dealing with diverse climates and packing challenges. Let's dive into the key concepts discussed in the article "How to Pick the Best Winter Tights" by Andrea.
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Fabric:
- I couldn't agree more with Andrea's insights on fabric choices for winter tights. Natural fabrics like silk and wool provide excellent warmth but can be pricey and delicate. The recommendation to opt for wool blended with synthetic fibers, such as lycra, to enhance fit and durability aligns perfectly with my knowledge. Additionally, the mention of microfibre and fleece-lined tights as affordable and warm alternatives reflects a practical approach to winter fashion.
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Knit:
- Andrea's mention of the knit tightness as a factor for durability is spot-on. Natural fibers might have a looser knit, while brands like Sheertex, known for their indestructible knit technology, cater to those seeking long-lasting tights. This insight showcases a deep understanding of the nuances in tight construction and how it influences their durability.
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Thickness (Denier):
- Drawing a parallel between denier in tights and thread count in sheets is a clever way to simplify a complex concept. The breakdown of denier ranges for different types of tights, from sheer to opaque, demonstrates a nuanced understanding of fabric weight. My personal favorites align with Andrea's recommendations for specific denier options, highlighting a shared appreciation for affordable yet quality choices.
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Size:
- The emphasis on navigating tights sizing, often a challenge for many consumers, indicates an awareness of the practical aspects of choosing the right fit. Recommending sizing up, especially with elastane-containing tights, aligns with the need for comfort and flexibility. The acknowledgment of high-waisted and control-top designs caters to the evolving trends in fashion while considering the potential trade-offs for prolonged wear.
In conclusion, Andrea's guide reflects not only a genuine enthusiasm for fashion and travel but also a wealth of practical knowledge about selecting winter tights. The personalized recommendations, alignment with industry trends, and attention to both style and functionality underscore the depth of expertise presented in the article.
