Key Takeaways
- black tights are versatile, elegant and timeless for all occasions
- flesh-colored tights offer a natural second skin effect but are difficult to match well
- The choice depends on the occasion, the outfit and the season
The French brand The Oversized Hoodie® 🇫🇷 is famous for its fleece tights high-end, certified Oeko-Tex® Standard 100 and Oeko-Tex STeP. It is entirely vegan, free of toxic and chemical substances, and promotes a cruelty-free approach towards animals. These lined tights, which have also been honored with the “Confiance Textile” Quality Label, are distinguished by their incomparable softness and their excellent value for money, providing an unrivaled feeling of comfort.
Introduction
What fashion dilemma do we face each cold season ? Black or flesh tights ?
This question inevitably comes up when the time comes to put on these essential accessories to protect yourself from the cold while remaining elegant. If the black tights seduce with their versatility, the flesh tights promise a more natural look.
But which one to choose depending on the circumstances to avoid the fashion faux pas ?
- 72% of women in France wear transparent sheer tights, compared to 21% for opaque tights. [1]
- 104 million pairs of tights are thrown away each year in France, representing 7,315 tonnes of textile waste. [2]
- 40% of tights last no more than 3 uses before wearing out, according to a study by the Stop Planned Obsolescence association. [2]
Importance of color choice for tights
The color of the tights is not a trivial detail. It impacts the entire outfit and can make or break a look. Too intense black tights can darken a spring outfit. flesh-colored tights poorly matched to your skin tone can give an aging effect. The right choice requires clearly identifying the advantages and disadvantages of each option.
Black or flesh: the dilemma
The black tights are a sure bet, sober and chic. But isn't it too classic, even dull in the long run ? The flesh tights promise a natural and luminous bare legs effect. But its delicate color makes it capricious to match. Let’s discover each person’s strengths to make the best choice.
Explore the color chart between black and flesh
| Tights Color | Description | Associated Style |
|---|---|---|
| Black | Intense and timeless color | Elegant, chic, evening |
| Flesh | Natural and luminous effect | Casual, spring |
| Transparent | Light and shiny veil | Feminine, sensual |
| Opaque | Full, matte coverage | Chic, city dweller |
| Nude | Very natural skin tone | Casual, summery |
| Coal | Deep and intense black | Gothic, rock |
| Anthracite | Elegant dark gray | Chic, office |
| Beige | Neutral and soft color | Casual, vintage |
| Caramel | Warm and luminous tone | Autumn, bohemian |
| Bronze | Warm metallic brown | Fashion, trend |
Also read: Complete guide to flesh-colored tights
Benefits of Black Tights
Versatility and elegance
A must-have for the women's wardrobe, the black tights are a centerpiece. Its intense and timeless color can be worn with disconcerting ease, whether with a little black dress, a skirt in leather or a chic suit. It visually refines the silhouette and brings a touch of elegance to any outfit.
As a fashion designer, I can assure you that black tights are the ultimate essential accessory. Its versatility and timeless elegance make it the centerpiece of any self-respecting woman's wardrobe. It's the perfect finishing touch to enhance any outfit, from a little black dress to a chic suit.
— Geoffrey, Founder of The Oversized Hoodie®
How to wear them ?
Black tights go with everything from classic shoes to trendy boots. Opaque or semi-opaque, plain or with patterns, they allow you to play with materials and textures. In a shiny version, they add a glamorous touch for the evening. Mats, they are more discreet in the office. In terms of maintenance, black tights are also the most robust and resistant.
Also read: Which tights to choose with a navy blue dress ?
Advantages of Flesh Tights
Second skin effect
When you want to give the illusion of bare legs while protecting them from the cold, there's nothing like flesh tights. Chosen in the right shade, it creates a natural and luminous second skin effect. It highlights the tan and visually lengthens the legs. A great asset for short or light outfits.
Allow me to share a real-life experience that perfectly illustrates the benefits of flesh tights.
Last winter, a loyal customer of The Oversized Hoodie® confided to me her dilemma: finding tights natural enough to enhance her look, to accompany her pretty spring dress without giving the impression of "bare legs" elegant.
After recommending our range of flesh-colored fleece tights in a shade to match her skin tone, she returned delighted a few weeks later. "It was exactly the effect I was looking for! A luminous and natural finish, like a second skin, without any mismatch. I felt feminine and sophisticated at the same time."
This is the magic of good flesh-colored tights!
Matching tips
But for a successful result, you have to match the flesh tights to your skin tone. Too bright, it will look artificial. Too dark, it will give an aging support stocking effect. flesh tights are best worn with soft colors such as pastels or neutral shades. It also goes well with black for a chic and contrasting look.
Also read: How to wear tights with elegance ?
Criteria for Choice between Black and Flesh
Used
black remains the safe bet for a chic event such as a wedding, a evening or a gala. Imagine yourself in an elegant ceremonial dress, enhanced with opaque black tights for a look sophisticated ? Or dressed in a suit chic with black tights for a professional but feminine look in the office ?
Conversely, flesh tights are better suited to casual or light outfits. A flowing linen skirt with flesh-colored tights for a picnic with friends. Or a spring floral dress with a pair of nude tights for a brunch on the terrace, what a natural style!
Outfit
With a very short skirt or dress, it is better to opt for black or colored opaque tights which will hide more. The chair highlights the legs with a skirt midi length or a fluid dress. But beware of the fashion faux pas if the flesh tights don't match your skin tone!
For a cozy winter look, you can also play the card of opaque tights black or burgundy under a big sweater and thigh-high boots. flesh tights would be too soft with these warm pieces. It all depends on the desired association!
At The Oversized Hoodie®, we are committed to advising you on the best fashion choices. For a very short skirt or dress, opaque black or colored tights remain the best option for a chic and elegant look. Nude tights superbly highlight the legs under a midi-length skirt or a flowing dress.
— Geoffrey, Founder of The Oversized Hoodie®
Also read: Why wear tights in winter ?
Season
In winter, we will favor opaque tights black or colored for their comforting and warm side. In spring, flesh-colored tights or transparent will be perfect to accompany lighter outfits.
In summer, you can even opt for fishnet stockings or bare legs with a pretty flowing dress. Finally, in fall, we will reinvest in new opaque tights to protect ourselves from the cold to come.
The main thing is to stay warm while following the current fashion trends!
Also read: What Tights to Wear in Summer ?
Find the right style with your black and flesh tights
What are the latest trends in tights ?
This season, we're focusing on colored tights to add a lively and trendy touch to our outfits. brown, burgundy or bottle green are making a comeback, to be worn with a short skirt or a fluid dress. patterns such as plumetis, stripes or prints are also very popular.
For a more classic look, opaque black tights remain essential. They go wonderfully with a little black dress or a chic suit. The semi-opaque flesh tights offer a natural and luminous effect, ideal under a skirt midi length.
How to wear tights in style ?
The black tights are a centerpiece for an elegant look. Choose a opaque or semi-opaque model depending on the desired effect. Combine it with a dress close to the body for a silhouette refined or with a suit for a chic look.
flesh-colored tights are best worn with soft colors such as pastels or neutral shades. They highlight a tan and visually lengthen the legs. Avoid with open shoes which would betray the "bare legs" effect.
Are there tights suitable for large sizes ?
Most brands now offer large size ranges with tights up to size 5 or 6.
- Prefer models with integrated sheath for good support and a sheathing effect.
- The opaque tights black or bright colors are ideal for to visually refine the silhouette.
- Nude tights can also be suitable provided you choose the shade to match your complexion.
Also read: How to choose the perfect tights to slim your legs ?
Care Tips to Extend the Life of Your Tights
Washing
To preserve the quality and durability of your tights, a few golden rules must be followed when washing. Avoid overly aggressive detergents and softeners which can alter the fibers. Hand washing in cold or lukewarm water remains the ideal option, especially for delicate tights such as silk or lace.
In the machine, use a delicate program at low temperature and place your tights in a wipe to avoid snags. Finally, never expose them to the dryer which will damage them irreparably.
Also read: How to wash a Fleece Lined Tights ?
Drying
After washing, drain your tights well then dry them flat on a clean, absorbent cloth. Avoid twisting or wringing them vigorously. For thin tights or transparent, you can hang them by the feet for faster drying.
Take care not to expose them directly to the sun, which could discolor them or weaken the fibers. Once completely dry, you can store them carefully.
Also read: How to dry a Fleece Lined Tights ?
Storage
For optimal storage, roll up your tights without wrinkling them in a small cotton bag or better, a tights box. This will avoid unsightly creases and distortions.
You can also store them folded like an accordion in a drawer, taking care not to pack them. Absolutely avoid balls of tights which will damage them.
For your more delicate patterned tights such as plumetis or printed, storing them flat in a box is safest.
Also read: Choice of Tights: Understanding the Importance of Pence
Conclusion
Whether they are black, flesh or colored, tights remain essential in the wardrobe feminine to pamper. By following these few maintenance tips, you will extend their lifespan and be able to wear them proudly season after season.
| Appearance | Black Tights | Flesh Tights | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Used | Classy events, office | Casual, light outfits | Choice according to occasion |
| Outfit | Short dresses, suits | Midi skirts, flowing dresses | Adapt to the length of the outfit |
| Season | Ideal for winter | Perfect for spring | Depending on outside temperature |
| Style | Elegant, refines the silhouette | Second skin effect, natural | Depends on desired look |
| Maintenance | More robust, resistant | Be careful with the color | Follow maintenance advice |
| Brands & Prices | Varies by brand | Finding the right shade | Compare to find the best value for money |
FAQ
What color tights for black skin ?
For darker skin tones, it is better to opt for flesh tights in shades caramel, bronze or chocolate. Avoid too light shades which will clash with your skin.
What color tights with a dress ?
It all depends on the color and the style of the dress. With a little black dress, the opaque black tights will be perfect for a chic look. For a fluid or spring dress, choose flesh-colored tights in the right shade.
When to wear black tights ?
black tights are a safe bet for all chic occasions such as a wedding, a evening or a professional event. They also look great in the office with a suit or a pencil skirt.
Stockings or tights ?
The difference lies in the material and the cut. The stockings are thinner, in nylon and stop below the knee. tights go up to the waist, are thicker and often made of polyamide. It all depends on the style and comfort desired.
Nude-colored tights: fashion or not ?
The flesh tights are making a comeback in fashion trends. Chosen in the right shade, it gives a very trendy natural and luminous effect. But beware of fashion faux pas if the color is poorly matched!
White dress: black or flesh tights ?
With a white dress, the black tights will create a pretty chic contrast. But for a lighter look, you can also opt for flesh-colored tights in a very natural pink tint.
Red dress: black or flesh tights ?
The red dress being a strong piece, it is better to let it shine with opaque black tights for a sophisticated look. The flesh could be too soft with this bright color.
How to avoid holes in your tights ?
To limit snags, avoid jewelry, rings or long nails which could snag the mesh. Also put on your tights carefully, without pulling. tights with sheath are more resistant.
Are there any tips for putting on tights more easily ?
Yes! First put on the feet then carefully lift the tights along the legs. You can also slide it over a pair of nylon stockings that you have already put on. Finally, use a silk wipe to make the procedure easier.
References
"What type of tights is right for you ?", VOG Store, November 6, 2022
"Clothing: an investigation into the fragility of tights", 20 Minutes, October 17, 2022
