(The Shopping List)

Nothing Makes My Outfit Better Like A Pair Of Patterned Tights

They make getting dressed easy.

Updated: Feb. 20, 2024

Originally Published: Feb. 3, 2024

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As long as I can remember, I’ve had a thing for patterned tights. I credit my mother, who dressed me in lacy white ones any chance she could get. Back then I had no say in the matter, of course, but as an adult, I’ve fully embraced the look. In my opinion, hosiery of any sort can completely upgrade your outfit. And if delicate fabrics, bold colors, and intricate designs are involved? Your style will also be transformed. My personal preference is to wear my printed or textured stockings with an ankle boot or shoe that really shows off the motif. But they will add something special when subtly peaking over the top of a knee boot, too.

My current statement tights collection includes plenty of black and nude pairs — classic seam details, polka dots, and herringbone never fail in those colors. That said, I like to incorporate some bolder hues every now and then. Falke, a German-based sock brand, has become one of my go-to sources for affordable and beautifully patterned hosiery. After scoring a robin’s egg blue stripe design (more on these below) from the label, I was excited to purchase more, but in brandy and artichoke hues.

Ahead, shop my favorite hosiery buys and the selections currently on my wishlist.

Sheertex

Backseam Sheer Rip-Resist Tights

$99

$35

There’s nothing quite like a backseam stocking, and this pair from Sheertex is the GOAT (in no small part due to its rip-resistant material).

The vertical turquoise stripes on this one make my legs look extra long, especially if I add a pair of heels.

Wolford

Sylvie Tights

$60

The graphic print on these tights instantly adds dimension to simple dress or skirt. I’d pair them with a sleek pump instead of a boot to fully show off the design.

ALAIA

Croc Embossed Footed Tights

$320

You have to think of these tights as an investment. The crocodile print is subtle enough to be worn with anything and fishnet material is timeless.

Norma Kamali

Legging With Footie

$130

Houndstooth is the epitome of a winter classic. Paired with a cozy black oversized sweater, it adds just enough whimsy to balance things out.

Fogal

Fogal x Ulla Johnson

$91

Lace tights have a romantic feel that’s unmatched, and this option from Fogal’s collaboration with Ulla Johnson is no different. The intricate floral weave looks particularly nice with a pair of Mary Janes.

VALENTINO

Pink Toile Iconographe Tights

$211

This hot pink pair from Valentino is high on my wishlist. I love how the quiet print plays against the shocking color — and how it can turn the most basic black dress into a full on moment.

Natori

Sheer Dragon Toss Fishnet Tights

$32

I can 100 percent say I don’t already own a pair of fishnets like these. The dragon print isn’t for the timid, but would be great for spicing up an otherwise plain mini skirt.

Polka dot-covered tights are my weakness. I’ve gone through several pairs over the years, and am now ready to invest in a quality pair like this one from Lanvin.

Free People

Rosa Lace Tights

$60

Powder blue lace may seem hard to pull off, but when paired with the right pieces it’s surprisingly easy. I’d layer these under wool dress pants and a sport a low vamp shoe to show off just a hint of color.

This article was originally published on Feb. 3, 2024