Sizes: S–L / Colors: 1 option / Materials: 80% polyamide, 20% elastane
This pair of black tights pulls double duty, from demure to sultry. Wolford’s leopard-print fishnet tights offer a sheer, speckled look that’s easy to pair with pieces in your closet, like a simple minidress and tall boots. “While I’m not typically a huge fishnet fan, these are subtle and tightly woven enough that they have a more smooth finish for an elegant touch of animal print,” says Lebet, who praises their durability. The jacquard weave lends itself better to hand-washing—but at least the pattern also helps to conceal any rogue snags.
Sizes: XS–L / Colors: 1 option / Materials: 96% polyamide, 4% elastane
Courtesy of brand
Swedish Stockings Geri Glossy Tights
A pair of red tights can give any outfit a nostalgic, playful feel, and this pick from Swedish Stockings is the perfect cherry-red hue. Lebet found an unexpected wardrobe staple in these tights, saying they make even the simplest of outfits feel more considered and nostalgic. “I wear a lot of dark colors and jewel tones, so I was shocked at how the vibrance of these tights managed to fit in so seamlessly with my closet,” Lebet says. The tights have a soft, shiny appearance for a not-quite-matte look that works well with, say, a pair of Mary Janes and a wool midiskirt. The 60-denier style leans slightly more opaque, offering a vibrant pop of color, and a control top offers some light compression and a smoothing effect. While Lebet notes they’re not the most invincible against the churn of a washing machine, hand-washing and air-drying help maintain their lifespan.
Sizes: S–XL / Colors: 2 options / Materials: 92% polyamide, 8% elastane
How we tested
Glamour editors, contributors, and trusted reviewers tested these tights by measuring how well they held up after multiple wears and washes without ripping, running or snags. (Sheertex took the cake for these qualities.) Other factors for consideration included how easy they were to put on, and how well they elevated an outfit.
All your tights questions, answered
How should tights fit?
According to stylist Audree Kate López, tights should fit your legs snugly, but not too tightly that they dig in or restrict movement, as this can make them more likely to tear. “If you are tall or curvy, I suggest sizing up for extra stretch. Personally, I’m only 5-feet-3, but sometimes I size up to accommodate my hips,” she says. It’s important to note that the groin area shouldn’t be saggy, and the tights shouldn’t feel like they’re falling down when walking: “They should fit like second skin or a pair of workout leggings. If they leave marks on your skin, they’re too small,” she explains.
How to prevent tights from ripping
In addition to ensuring that they’re the right fit, there are a few ways to actually make sure that your tights don’t rip. “First, put them on properly, by rolling them up your leg, and being gentle with them,” López says. You’ll also want to store them with similar items like undergarments or socks, or in a bag so they don’t snag in your drawer.
“I’d also recommend putting them in a laundry bag before washing them, or hand washing them and hanging them to dry, as dryers can also be too harsh on the material,” López adds. Remember to let any body moisturizer dry before putting them on, and you can also spray the tights with hairspray once you have them on to reinforce fibers and prevent runs. Pro tip: “If you see a run in your tights—apply clear nail polish to the run to prevent it from continuing to tear,” she says.
How to style tights
Going for a monochrome look (like black on black) is always a failsafe way to style tights, but if you’re thinking about trying your hand at styling a more colorful pair, test them out with some tall boots so the hosiery hue doesn’t overwhelm the outfit.
“If you want the tights to make a statement, you can add in accessories like a bag, jewelry, or shoes that match and complement the tights,” López says. Bright colors, in particular, can feel intimidating at first, so she recommends starting with darker shades like brown, navy, burgundy or maroon. “Work to layer them in with mini skirts and tall boots, or a long jacket so it’s a little pop of color that feels more chic,” López explains.
