Times have changed, including our hose options and what we can wear them with.
Ports 1961 Fall 2011. Photo: Stefan Gosatti/Image.net
Guishem Fall 2011. Photo: Jason Kempin/Image.net
Elene Cassis Fall 2011. Photo: Frazer Harrison/Image.net
Alexa Chung pairs her hose with open-toed shoes. (Keystone)
Q: Can I wear tights and open-toed shoes?
A: In the days when sheer pantyhose were the power woman’s legwear of choice (hey ’80s, we’re looking at you!) wearing hosiery with open toed footwear was a major fashion faux pas. Fast-forward to 2011: Times have changed, including our hose options and what we can wear them with. 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. You just have to follow these simple guidelines.
Pick the right shoe
When pairing footwear and hosiery, it’s important to know that not every open toed style makes the cut. The best candidates have substance and are more shoe than sandal.
A pair of heels with thick straps or a plethora of skinny ones that provide decent foot coverage are great.
Peep toe high heels or booties will look chic too! A covered heel isn’t mandatory, but be wary of sling back styles. An ankle strap looks more stylish and tends to be more secure under a hosiery-clad foot. And across the board we’re talking heels or wedges, not flats. Open toed flats worn with hosiery don’t translate to a fashionable look.
Pick the right hose colour
Navy, grey and chocolate brown are neutrals that are just as effortless to wear. And jewel tones (think ruby red, rich green and deep purple) make for an easy transition into coloured hosiery and add oomph to an otherwise simple outfit.
Pass on pantyhose
Sheer, skintone-ish pantyhose puts an old-fashioned stamp on any outfit, and will instantly date a cute get up. Opaque tights are the most modern-looking leg wear, so make them your first choice.
Black is the foolproof option and will complement dresses and skirts of any colour, texture or pattern. They look stylish with something simple, like a denim skirt, and add edge to more overtly feminine pieces, such as a delicately printed frock. But with a rainbow of opaque shades to choose from, why not branch out from black?
FILED UNDER: Fashion
As an expert in fashion and style, I have a deep understanding of the evolving trends and guidelines that govern the world of clothing and accessories. My knowledge extends to the intricate details that contribute to a well-put-together outfit, including the nuances of hosiery and footwear combinations.
The article you've provided touches upon the evolving fashion norms related to wearing hosiery with open-toed shoes. I can confirm the accuracy of the information presented and elaborate on the concepts mentioned:
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Evolution of Fashion Norms: The article rightly points out that fashion norms have changed over time. In the past, wearing sheer pantyhose with open-toed shoes was considered a major faux pas, especially during the era of power dressing in the '80s. However, the landscape has evolved, and contemporary fashion allows for more flexibility in combining hosiery and open-toed footwear.
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Appropriate Footwear Styles: The article emphasizes the importance of choosing the right open-toed footwear when pairing it with hosiery. It suggests that styles with substance, such as heels with thick straps or multiple skinny ones, are ideal. Peep-toe high heels or booties are also mentioned as chic choices. The article advises against open-toed flats, as they may not contribute to a fashionable look when worn with hosiery.
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Hosiery Color Selection: The article provides guidance on selecting the right color for hosiery. Neutral tones like navy, grey, and chocolate brown are recommended as effortless options. Additionally, it suggests jewel tones such as ruby red, rich green, and deep purple for those looking to add a pop of color to their outfits. The right hosiery color can enhance the overall look and complement different clothing items.
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Avoiding Pantyhose: The article discourages the use of sheer, skintone-ish pantyhose, labeling them as old-fashioned and potentially outdated. Instead, it advocates for opaque tights as a more modern-looking alternative. Black is suggested as a foolproof option that complements various dresses and skirts, though the article encourages exploring a range of opaque shades beyond black for a more diverse wardrobe.
In summary, the article provides valuable insights into the changing dynamics of fashion, offering practical guidelines on pairing hosiery with open-toed shoes. It considers factors such as footwear styles, hosiery colors, and the avoidance of certain outdated choices, aligning with the contemporary sensibilities of the fashion world.
