Rock those stockings: Think twice about bare legs for a formal event (2024)

This question rolled in just as I was about to issue a bulletin on this very subject ...

Dear Answer Angel Ellen: My son is getting married in November. I'm wearing a black knee-length sequined sheath. I have an old pair of black sequined pumps that will look fabulous with the dress. I would prefer to wear pantyhose since it is November and also because the shoes are a little tight. Are bare legs still the way to go, or is hosiery OK. And if so, what color would you suggest?

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— Sharri B.

Dear Sharri: I have just refined my advice on this frequent question, thanks to some personal trial and error over the past two weeks. The most frequent questions put to The Angel have something to do with what to wear to a wedding. One common dilemma is whether bare legs are the chic option or is hosiery now OK.

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In the past I've pointed out that bare legs (even in chilly weather) have been popular on runways, red carpets and in fashion layouts, which set the trends. I have advised readers that while bare legs are fine even at the most formal events, hosiery also is perfectly acceptable as long as it's skin tone and sheer.

I've just returned from a wedding where I wore my new bargain ($10!) black sequined mini and consignment store jeweled black shoes (also $10). I was planning to go barelegged. After I put on the dress and was almost out the door, my spouse gently suggested that bare legs were not such a great choice. Another look in the mirror told me that he was completely right. We headed for the wedding, but I made an emergency stop at Macy's, where I bought two pairs of pantyhose, one black, one flesh tone and raced up the escalator and into the ladies' room to try them out. The black ones were fabulous, and I urge you to buy some black ones for your son's wedding.

The very next weekend I had another wedding with another glittery (mostly silver) consignment store dress (new, with tags, $69). I had planned to go with bare legs to this one too, but after the previous week's experience, I knew I would look better with hose. Before leaving the house this time, I tried on both colors of hosiery and found that the flesh tone looked great and the black was way too dark and offered too much contrast with the dress.

This recent experience has taught me that women generally are better off wearing sheer hosiery to fancy affairs instead of going barelegged. If you're not sure of the color, try on both flesh tone and black hosiery with the dress you plan to wear and take a hard look in the mirror before you make a choice.

Dear Answer Angel Ellen: I really love the lightweight printed cotton fabric handbags; however, I would like to know if they can only be carried when wearing solid color clothes or if they can be carried with printed clothes in the same color family as the handbag. I would very much appreciate a reply.

Sally M.

Dear Sally: Pattern mixing has been big for the past few years and is still going strong. So, feel confident in carrying that patterned bag with patterned clothes. Right now, anything goes. Some of the combos I see in stores seem to clash, but they're considered high fashion. And if you doubt me, while you're waiting in line at the grocery store, thumb through Elle, Vogue, Marie Claire, and you'll see what I mean.

Dear Answer Angel Ellen: When putting on necklaces I have a difficult time with clasps. Is there such a thing as a stretchy necklace (for casual wear) that will go over your head and around the neck for people in a hurry?

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Fed Up With Jewelry Clasps

Dear Fed Up: I'm fed up too! Just recently, I had to get out pliers to remove my Kate Spade necklace and had a frustrating 20-minute wrestling match trying to put on a delicate gold necklace from Tiffany. Why do designers pay so little attention to such important issues as putting on and taking off the jewelry they sell us?

Yes, there are thousands of elastic necklaces out there. Search www.etsy.com for "stretch necklace," and you'll see loads of options.

Another alternative, of course, is to buy necklaces with long chains to slip over your head without fiddling with the clasp. Charming Charlie (www.charmingcharlie.com) has many styles. Also, I've had good luck with magnetic necklace clasps that are easy to install on your existing costume jewelry. Find them for under $10 at www.amazon.com.

For your high-end jewelry, a jeweler can replace the Houdini clasp with something that mere mortals can use. And, although you didn't ask, check out YouTube for videos on how to use a paper clip to enable you to put on those bracelets that you've given up on.

Angelic readers

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Barbara B. introduced me to a product I didn't know existed: "The answer to covering arms while wearing sleeveless tops and dresses is the Sleevey Wonder (www.sleeveywonders.com)" They're pricey ($44-$75) but worth a look.

Reader rant

"Blonde lament: Why do drugstores stock each type of mascara in three different shades of black, but will carry maybe only one type of brown mascara (which is usually not waterproof)? Many women don't want 'doll eyes' or 'butterfly lashes.' The Kardashian look doesn't appeal to everyone. Tip: When my brown mascara starts drying out, I use it to darken my brows. That's why waterproof brown mascara is so important to me."

— Karen C.

Now it's your turn

Send your questions, rants, tips, favorite finds — on style, shopping, makeup, fashion and beauty — to answerangelellen@gmail.com.

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Get those old pizza sauce splatters off your microwave walls with this cute gadget.$9.99 atcontainerstore.com (Container Store)

Rock those stockings: Think twice about bare legs for a formal event (2024)

FAQs

Should you wear stockings to a formal event? ›

However, in general, pantyhose are not required for formal events. If the event is black tie, then it is likely that pantyhose will not be required. However, if the event is semi-formal or business casual, then pantyhose may be required or expected.

Do you wear pantyhose with a formal dress? ›

Classic sheer, nude pantyhose are worn with dresses to keep from baring legs, and all their imperfections, in formal and professional environments.

Is it OK to wear pantyhose to a wedding? ›

The truth is, as the mother-of-the-groom, you can wear whatever you want to the ceremony. While it's not required to wear pantyhose to weddings, we highly encourage you to look and feel fabulous for the occasion. Thigh highs are a glamorous way to help you reach this goal.

Is it ok to have bare legs at a wedding? ›

There is no definitive answer to this question. Some people feel that it is perfectly acceptable to go bare legged to a wedding, while others believe that it is more appropriate to wear socks or tights. Ultimately, it is up to the individual to decide what they feel comfortable wearing.

Are pantyhose back in style 2022? ›

2022 is the year of the tights

Polka dot patterns, spotted hearts, flowers, lace, sheer, there and everywhere! They're just begging to be used in the latest trends, and if industry whispers are anything to go by – they will be.

Should I wear pantyhose to a summer wedding 2022? ›

Wedding guests are not required to wear pantyhose, but we strongly advise them to do so. In the fall and winter, opaque tights make a good alternative to regular pantyhose because they're a bit warmer in terms of temperature.

What color pantyhose to wear with black dress? ›

Match your tights or stockings to the hemline of your skirt or dress. For example, if you have a black dress, then choose a pair of black tights or stockings. There is an exception to this rule, however; if your outfit is darker than the shoes you are wearing, choose nude-colored tights or stockings instead.

What color pantyhose should you wear with a navy dress? ›

White, off-white, or cream with navy has always been a classic combination. Opaque cream tights or sheer white with a subtle pattern would look great with a navy dress.

Is it professional to wear pantyhose? ›

The general conclusion? While pantyhose used to be necessary in professional woman's work wardrobe, this is no longer the case in most places. You can dress in a formal way without wearing pantyhose, and you should not worry about being docked on your interview performance because of it.

Is it OK to wear open toe shoes with pantyhose? ›

Yes, you can wear stockings with open-toe shoes. Tricia recommends getting stockings that do not have a reinforced toe or a large seam on the toe.

Can my husband wear jeans to a wedding? ›

If you don't own a suit or if the wedding is casual, wearing a clean pair of dark denim jeans is perfectly fine.

Does anybody wear pantyhose anymore? ›

While pantyhose have fallen out of favor in recent years, there are still many women who choose to wear them on a daily basis. For some, pantyhose provide a necessary layer of support and coverage, while others simply enjoy the way they look and feel.

Are black nylons in style 2022? ›

It also declared a saucier boss in the land of hosiery — consider almost-transparent black stockings the sexy, semi-wild, but totally put together cousin of the matronly nude pantyhose and humble black tight. In 2022, they're the elevated choice for when you don't want to go bare-legged.

Why no one wears pantyhose anymore? ›

There are a variety of reasons why this may be the case. For one, pantyhose can be uncomfortable to wear and can often times be a hassle to put on. Additionally, pantyhose can be quite sheer and may not provide the coverage that some women are looking for.

What does a woman wear on her leg when she gets married? ›

What is a Wedding Garter? A wedding garter is a piece of lingerie typically worn by brides under their bridal gown. Its historical function is to hold stockings up, but nowadays it's more common to wear as a decorative novelty item for the traditional “garter toss.”

Should you wear black nylons with black dress? ›

Black sheers dress up black dresses, giving them a wow factor. It's the go-to choice for black dresses. Black nylons aren't just reserved for black dresses. In fact, they look stunning with royal blue.

When did stockings go out of style? ›

By the 90s, women looking for comfort and freedom began to go au-natural, leaving their legs bare as often as not. In 2006, the New York Times referred to the hosiery industry as “An Industry that Lost its Footing.”

What color should you not wear to a summer wedding? ›

Traditionally, the only off-limits color for wedding guests has been white, for obvious reasons—no one wants to take attention away from the bride.

Can you wear black pantyhose to a wedding? ›

I think if it's an afternoon wedding or outdoors, black opaque tights can be totally fine if it's the right dress of course because that's a more dressy casual time frame. Pair it with a closed toe shoe that's black as well to continue that vertical visual line as well so you don't look choppy.

What Colour leggings are most flattering? ›

Light colors can often give a more feminine feel and if you are going to train outside in the sun, they will not be as warm as darker colors. Bright colors can also lift the mood and make the workout more fun! If you want a more feminine or "soft" look, a light pink or peach colored tights may be right up your alley.

Can you wear pantyhose to a funeral? ›

Put Your Best Legs Forward

Wearing a pair of sheer pantyhose adds a smooth look of perfection to your legs and completes the classic ensemble. A pair of black opaque tights can also go well with your funeral dress. Black tights with a black dress is the perfect montone head-to-toe funeral wear look.

What goes on first Spanx or nylons? ›

All my shapewear manufacturers agreed unanimously: pantyhose should go on first. Why? Because most shapewear is designed with fabric that is slick. Pantyhose put on over shapewear will be chronically inching down your body and needing constant pulling up.

What color shoes go best with navy pants? ›

8 Shoe Colors Perfect For Your Navy Blue Outfit
  • 01 of 08. Dark Brown. Brown is my favorite color to pair with navy. ...
  • 02 of 08. Tan. I love tan because a light color shoe is a bit daintier, less clunky than a darker one. ...
  • 03 of 08. Light Blue. ...
  • 04 of 08. White or Cream. ...
  • 05 of 08. Red. ...
  • 06 of 08. Orange. ...
  • 07 of 08. Yellow. ...
  • 08 of 08. Gold.
Jan 10, 2022

When should you wear pantyhose? ›

In general, you should wear pantyhose with a dress if the dress is at least knee-length and the weather is cooler. If the dress is shorter or the weather is warmer, you may get away with not wearing pantyhose.

Should you size up or down for pantyhose? ›

Bigger is better

After consulting the size chart, if you find yourself to be in-between sizes or at the upper end of a size range, you should always opt for the bigger size. Tights are typically made small and considering their close fit, it's better for them to be bigger rather than too small.

Is pantyhose formal? ›

Pantyhose are appropriate for wearing if you're going to a formal event. You'll be able to keep warm while also looking polished with them. Pantyhose add an air of sophistication to a semi-formal ensemble. When attending a highly formal ceremony, it is always preferable to overdress rather than underdress.

Can you wear pantyhose with open heels? ›

So, yes, you can wear hosiery with open toed shoes – but only if you choose an appropriate style of footwear, and a certain type of hosiery. Sounds like a complicated fashion formula, but getting this look right doesn't require a degree.

Can you wear black pantyhose with brown boots? ›

Black tights can work with brown or grey boots, too.

This is easiest done with dresses that work well with black tights, such as dresses in a color that contrasts well with black or dresses with a print that has black in it.

Can we wear sneakers with stockings? ›

Sneakers and stockings is a fantastic way to juggle work-life balance without compromise.

What should a 70 year old woman wear to a wedding? ›

For a formal or semi-formal wedding, grandmothers may choose a formal gown, a longer style dress, or an elegant suit-like style. For a casual wedding, a dress is still appropriate, as is a pantsuit, or skirt and blouse or dress and jacket combination!

What should not be at a wedding? ›

15 Things You Should Never (Ever) Do at a Wedding
  • of 15. Don't show up early. ...
  • of 15. Don't show up late. ...
  • of 15. Don't record the ceremony. ...
  • of 15. Don't overshare on social media. ...
  • of 15. Don't steal the photographer's shot. ...
  • of 15. Don't wear white. ...
  • of 15. Don't bring an unexpected plus one. ...
  • of 15.
Mar 15, 2018

What we Cannot wear in wedding? ›

It doesn't matter if the dress code requests "casual" attire; jeans, T-Shirts, shorts, and sneakers are never appropriate to wear as a wedding guest. Show respect for the bride and groom by dressing formally.

What country buys the most pantyhose? ›

This statistic shows the import volume of pantyhose, tights, stockings, socks and other hosiery into the European Union (27 countries) in 2021. In this year, Malta imported the highest amount of hosiery, totaling at 70,230 tons, followed by Germany at 60,855 tons.
...
CharacteristicVolume in tonnes
--
--
11 more rows
Dec 5, 2022

Are nylons still in style 2022? ›

The most popular options were sheer black hose and nude hose and tights, but both were voted on by others. Silhouettes withuminous colors are expected to emerge as a fashion trend in 2022.

Is wearing stockings fashionable? ›

Perhaps the most basic rule to remember is that hosiery can be a functional and fashionable addition to any fall or winter ensemble. They'll keep you nice and toasty while giving you the look of longer and sleeker legs.

Are leggings still in style 2023? ›

Yep, making your staple leggings feel up-to-date and—dare I say—cool in 2023 comes down to styling them with a few key items. Simple choices like picking the right coat or pair of shoes can make a world of difference.

Do men wear pantyhose? ›

More and more men are wearing pantyhose every year. The practice has gotten so popular that several companies produce lines of specialized men's pantyhose. If you'd like to try out wearing pantyhose, finding the right pair is easy.

Why does the groom look under the bride's dress? ›

In this long-standing tradition, the groom reaches under the bride's dress to remove the garter and throws it to the male wedding guests. Often, this is a special-made, decorative "toss garter" used (sometimes doubling as a bride's "something blue").

Why do girls wear white when they get married? ›

The practice likely traces back more than 2,000 years, with roots in the Roman Republic (509 B.C. - 27 B.C.) when brides wore a white tunic. The color white represented purity, symbolizing both a woman's chastity and her transition to a married Roman matron.

Who pays for the wife's wedding dress? ›

Dresses and Suits

The bride and groom are responsible for paying for what they will wear on the wedding day. Oftentimes the bride's mom will help pay for her dress and accessories. The groom should handle any costs associated with their suit.

Should stockings be worn with a co*cktail dress? ›

If you don't care for pantyhose and you're comfortable going without, that's perfectly fine for all but the most conservative of semi-formal events. (If it's a business event, you may want to ask around and see what the other women are going to wear to be sure you look appropriate.)

When should you not wear support stockings? ›

Compression socks are NOT recommended for some patients.

If you have peripheral vascular disease affecting your lower extremities, you should not wear compression socks,” he says. “The pressure provided by compression socks may make ischemic disease worse.

Are pantyhose required at a black tie event? ›

Yes, wear tights, sheer or black. If you have a long dress, you can get away with no tights, but we are here to clarify the rules, right? And the rules are tights.

Is it OK not to wear stockings? ›

At the end of the day, it's fine to wear hosiery or skip it on certain occasions. It's simply a matter of wearing what looks best for you. If you're still in doubt, then try your ensemble both ways to avoid making any last-minute outfit decisions the night before you plan to go out.

Is it OK to wear pantyhose with open toe shoes? ›

Yes, you can wear stockings with open-toe shoes. Tricia recommends getting stockings that do not have a reinforced toe or a large seam on the toe.

Does wearing socks increase blood pressure? ›

Strictly speaking, this is not true. People with healthy blood pressure do not develop hypertension (high blood pressure) when they wear compression stockings or socks. Knee-high compression garments have no sustained impact on your blood pressure.

How many hours a day should you wear support stockings? ›

You should wear your compression stockings during the day and take them off before going to bed. Put them on again first thing in the morning. You should be given at least 2 stockings, or 2 pairs if you're wearing them on both legs. This means you can wear 1 stocking (or pair) while the other is being washed and dried.

Can you wear support stockings all night? ›

Compression stockings can be worn throughout the day and night to keep your legs pain-free.

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