Key Takeaways
- tights and leggings are two similar garments but with subtle differences in terms of material, thickness and use.
- Choosing between tights or leggings depends on your comfort, style and occasion needs.
- leggings are generally thicker, opaque and more comfortable than tights, making them an ideal choice for sports, relaxation or casual outfits.
Understand the difference between tights and leggings
You are hesitating between tights and leggings ? You are not alone! These two stretch and close-fitting garments are often confused. However, there are many differences between tights and leggings, whether in terms of material, thickness, style or use.
leggings are generally made of thicker and opaque materials such as cotton, modal, wool, silk or synthetic materials. Their thickness gives them a sculpting effect and better hold.
The tights are often more thin and transparent. They are mainly made of nylon, polyamide or microfiber, but you can also find models containing cotton, wool, polyester or elastane for more comfort and resistance. tights can be worn like underwear, under a skirt or dress.
| Clothing | Material | Thickness | Usage |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tights | Nylon, Polyamide | Fine, Transparent | Undergarment, Underskirt/dress |
| Leggings | Cotton, Modal, Synthetic | Thick, Opaque | Clothing only, Sport/Relaxation |
Also read: Tights or support stockings ?
Selection Criteria
Comfort and material
The first criterion to take into account when choosing between tights and leggings is comfort. And this involves, above all, the material. For a "second skin" feeling and freedom of movement, opt for tights or leggings in stretch and breathable materials such as cotton, modal or elastic fibers ( Lycra®, elastane...).
Avoid synthetic materials that are not very breathable and tend to make you sweat. If you have sensitive skin, choose leggings and tights in organic cotton, bamboo or modal, softer and hypoallergenic.
Occasions of use
Tights and leggings are not really used on the same occasions. To go to the office or in the evening with a skirt or dress, tights will be more appropriate and dressy.While for a casual everyday look, for doing sports, yoga or simply hanging out at home, the leggings will be your best ally!
leggings are also popular for dance, pilates or gym, because they allow great freedom of movement while sculpting the silhouette. With a sweatshirt or tank top, it's the perfect outfit for going to the gym or jogging.
Varieties and styles
Plain or fancy, opaque or transparent, high waisted or low waisted... The possibilities are endless when it comes to tights and leggings!
In terms of colors, we find everything: from the classic black, gray or navy blue, to more flashy colors like red or yellow. The tights and leggings also exist in a printed version with polka dots, flowers, diamond patterns, etc. Something to twist your look in the blink of an eye!
You can also play with different lengths: tights or leggings long, leggings 7/8 length stopping at the ankle, leggings capri below the knee, legging shorts... It's up to you to choose according to your tastes and your body shape.
At The Oversized Hoodie®, we pay particular attention to the comfort of our customers. This is why we carefully select the materials for our leggings and tights, and international certifications such as Oeko-Tex Standard 100. Our goal is to offer you pieces in which you will feel good all day long, without compromising between style and comfort. -be.
— Geoffrey, Founder of The Oversized Hoodie®
Also read: What are jeggings ?
Advantages and Disadvantages
Advantages of tights
- Fine and elegant, perfect under a skirt or dress
- "second skin" effect for a feeling of freedom
- Available in transparent or opaque version
- Easy to put on and wear
- Ideal for dressy and office looks
Benefits of leggings
- Comfortable and stretchy, perfect for sports and détente
- Material thick for a sheathing effect and sculpting
- Can be worn alone as pants
- Available in different lengths and colors
- Ideal for casual and daily looks
Disadvantages of tights
- Can spin easily (watch out for nails and jewelry)
- Less warm and coverings than leggings
- Require care when putting them on
- Less suitable for sport and intense activities
Disadvantages of leggings
- Can sometimes make bulges unsightly if too tight
- Some poor quality models may be too transparent
- Less dressed than tights for work
- More difficult to wear in summer because it is thicker
Also read: What are the most comfortable tights ?
When to choose tights rather than leggings ?
Now that you know the main differences between tights and leggings, you are probably wondering when to choose one or the other.Here are some examples of situations where tights will be more appropriate than leggings:
- To go to work, with a straight skirt or an office dress
- For a formal evening, a cocktail or a wedding
- When it's cold but you want to wear a skirt or dress
- For a retro or vintage look with a skater skirt
- Under denim shorts for a rock style
Conversely, here are the perfect opportunities to bring out your most beautiful leggings:
- For a session of sport, yoga or fitness
- For a cocooning Sunday at home
- Under a sweatshirt or tunic for a casual look
- To travel comfortably by plane or train
- Under boots or ankle boots in winter
I remember a customer, Marie, who called us to find the perfect leggings in our store The Oversized Hoodie®.
She had tried many models from other brands, but had never found what she was looking for. Either they were too thin and transparent, or they didn't hold in place well or compressed it. After listening carefully to his needs and expectations, I recommended our best-seller: the high-waisted thermal fleece leggings.
Sceptical at first, Marie was amazed as soon as she put it on! She told me she didn't think leggings could be so comfortable and flattering at the same time.
The soft synthetic fur interior lining hugged her curves perfectly, without letting anything show through. And the high waistband sculpted her figure and didn't move, even when she sat down.
Since then, she has become a huge fan of our leggings!
Also read: How to wear leggings when you're curvy ?
Fancy tights and leggings: for what occasion ?
If black, gray or navy tights and leggings are safe bets, it's sometimes good to think outside the box! To twist your look in the blink of an eye, opt for fancy models with original patterns.
Pots, flowers, diamonds, stripes, animal print... The possibilities are endless to add a touch of pep to your outfit. With a little black dress, tights with polka dots or geometric patterns will add a retro and glamorous note, pin-up style. Perfect for a girls' night out or a date!
For a more offbeat look, opt for leggings leopard, wax or tie & dye print under an oversized sweatshirt or destroyed jeans. You will be right in the "athleisure" trend which mixes sporty and casual pieces. The right mix for a Sunday brunch with friends!
Finally, if you are more minimalist, you will surely fall for a pretty tights embroidered with little hearts or flowers on one ankle. A discreet and delicate way to feminize a somewhat strict office outfit.
Also read: Which tights to wear in summer ?
Tights or leggings: which is warmer ?
You are wondering if tights or leggings keep you warmer in winter ? The answer is clear: leggings, especially fleece leggings, are much warmer and insulating than tights!
In fact, leggings are generally made of thicker materials such as cotton, modal or microfiber. Some models are even lined with fleece on the inside for maximum warmth. With leggings in wool or velvet, you won't fear winter temperatures!
tights are often thinner and made of transparent mesh. Although they may be sufficient in mid-season, they will not really protect you from the cold. Unless you opt for wool tights or fleece tights.
So if your priority is to have warm legs, we advise you to choose good thick leggings, even if you want to layer them with thin tights if you want a look more dressed. The perfect tip to combine style and comfort during the winter!
Also read: Why wear tights in winter ?
Why wear tights or leggings ?
Beyond their practical and comfortable side, tights and leggings have many advantages to enhance your silhouette and your style. Here are some good reasons to wear them every day:
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To refine and lengthen your legs: thanks to their sheathing and sculpting effect, tights and leggings stretch erase small imperfections and rebalance the proportions. As a result, your legs appear slimmer and longer in the blink of an eye!
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To feminize an outfit: with a skirt, a dress or even shorts, tights and leggings bring a feminine and glamorous touch to your look . You can play with materials (lace, fishnet, velvet, etc.) and colors to create original and trendy outfits.
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To warm up in winter: when temperatures drop, putting on wool leggings or opaque tights under jeans or a dress helps keep your skin warm warm legs without sacrificing style. No more shaking legs!
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To be comfortable on any occasion: whether running a marathon, performing a series of yoga postures or simply relaxing at the at home, the leggings and tights in cotton offer absolute comfort. They do not compress and let the skin breathe.
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To follow the latest fashion trends: animal prints, tie & dye, colorblock, lamé... Each season brings its share of new ones leggings and tights trendy to add a twist to your outfits.Enough to have fun and not get bored!
So, convinced ? All you have to do is find the perfect leggings or tights! At The Oversized Hoodie®, we have a wide selection of original, eco-responsible and comfortable models. It's up to you to fall for your crush.
As a responsible fashion enthusiast, I am committed to offering certified leggings and tights at The Oversized Hoodie®. Beyond the ecological aspect, organic cotton offers unparalleled comfort thanks to its softness and breathable properties. This is an essential criterion for me, whether you practice yoga, dance or simply want to be comfortable on a daily basis.
— Geoffrey, Founder of The Oversized Hoodie®
Also read: Why wear tights when it rains ?
Tights, leggings and socks: how to combine them ?
Now that you have chosen your favorite tights or leggings, the question is what to wear them with. And in particular, which socks or shoes to combine for a stylish and comfortable look.
With tights thin and transparent "stockings", we generally avoid wearing socks. Or socks that don't extend beyond the shoe for a "barefoot" effect. It's prettier and more feminine, especially with pumps, ballet flats or heeled sandals.
If you wear opaque tights or leggings, you can afford high socks that stick out. It’s even a great fashion trend! We love the high ribbed wool socks that pop out from leggings for a preppy look. Or thick hiking socks with rain boots, "cabin core" style.
With leggingssports or yoga, choose technical cotton socks that absorb perspiration. Socks will be perfect with sneakers. For a pilates or dance class, opt for slippers or non-slip socks with separate toes.
So, it's up to you to mix as you wish! Our advice: vary the materials and colors of your socks to create original combinations. polka dot tights with striped socks ? Why not! Dare, that’s fashion.
Also read: Should you wear your tights with or without underwear ?
Conclusion
Now you know everything about tights and leggings! Their differences, their strengths, how to choose and wear them... You are ready to find the ideal model.
Remember that beyond trends, the most important thing is to feel good and confident in your clothes. So choose leggings and tights in which you are comfortable, which highlight your figure and your personality.
And if you're looking for inspiration, don't hesitate to take a look at our collection of leggings and tights for women at The Oversized Hoodie®. Original, eco-responsible and ultra-comfortable pieces to wear without moderation!
So, ready to fall for a new leggings or tights ? It's time to treat yourself and try out new looks.No more shaking or sweaty legs, make way for comfort and style!
FAQ
Are tights or leggings warmer ?
leggings are generally warmer than tights because they are thicker and often made of insulating materials such as cotton, wool or microfiber. Thin, transparent tights don't really protect against the cold.
Why wear leggings ?
We wear leggings for their comfortable, practical and trendy side. It allows you to be comfortable on any occasion, whether playing sports, relaxing at home or going out. It's also a good way to warm up and refine your legs.
What is considered leggings ?
A legging is a very tight, stretchy pair of pants that fits the legs like a second skin. Often high-waisted and opaque, it can be worn as underwear or as a piece of clothing in its own right. It is available in long, 7/8, capri...
What is the difference between leggings and tights ?
The main difference between leggings and tights is thickness and opacity. leggings are thicker, more opaque and covering than tights. It also compresses the legs more. The tights are thinner, transparent and give a "low" effect.
Updated May 15, 2024
