Key Takeaways
- stockings and tights are two options for enhancing your legs, with distinct advantages
- The choice between stockings and tights depends on the occasion, the outfit and your personal preferences
- Opt for quality materials, a appropriate size and careful maintenance to make your stockings and tights last
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 an approach without cruelty towards animals.
These fleece tights, which have also been honored with the “Confiance Textile” Quality Label, are distinguished by their incomparable softness and their excellent quality-price ratio, providing an unrivaled feeling of comfort.
Introduction
You are hesitating between stockings and tights to highlight your legs with style and comfort ? Don't panic!
In this complete guide, we will decipher the differences between these two essential lingerie items, give you our best advice for choosing according to your needs and desires, and give you all the tips for wearing them with elegance for any occasion.
Whether you are a fan of the sensuality of stockings or the practicality of tights, follow the guide to find your happiness!
Understanding the differences between stockings and tights
Definitions and characteristics of stockings
stockings are pieces of lingerie that stop mid-thigh or above the knee. They generally require a garter belt to be held in place. Stockings are available in a wide variety of materials, from delicate lace to satin nylon to very warm wool.
Certain models also feature refined details such as a back seam or fancy patterns. The stockings bring a retro and glamorous touch to the silhouette.
Definitions and characteristics of tights
The tights completely wrap the legs and go up to the waist. They are available in numerous materials, thicknesses and degrees of opacity to suit all body shapes and styles.
Tights can be plain, colored or patterned. Some even integrate features such as contention or a shaping effect on the stomach and thighs. Their main advantage ? Great ease of putting on and wearing every day under skirts and dresses.
Advantages and disadvantages of each option
| Low | Tights | |
|---|---|---|
| Comfort | Less restrictive, lets the skin breathe | Fully wraps the legs, can be uncomfortable |
| Practicality | Requires garter belt or garters | Worn alone, easy to put on |
| Aesthetics | Bring a retro and glamorous touch | Adapt to all styles, more discreet |
| Silhouette | Lengthen the legs, attractive | Shapes the legs, shaping and sculpting effect |
| Solidity | More resistant, damaged less quickly | Fragile, prone to threads and addicts |
| Heat | Cover less, ideal for mid-season | Keep warm, perfect for winter |
| Hygiene | Ventilated, limits perspiration | Promote maceration and bacteria |
| Choice | Less variety of colors and patterns | Wide range of models, materials, opacities |
| Price | Often more expensive per unit | Affordable, good value for money |
| Maintenance | Delicate wash, flat, not restrictive | Machine wash in a mesh bag, dry carefully |
Also read: How to Recognize the Front and Back of Tights ?
What are the different types of stockings and tights available ?
| Type | Features | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|---|
| Classic stockings | Thin, transparent nylon, toe seam | Elegant, sensual, resistant | Requires suspender belt, can slip |
| Hold-up stockings | Silicone band at the top to hold without suspenders | Practical, comfortable, stays in place | Less aesthetic, can tighten the thigh |
| Fishnet stockings | Openwork and transparent mesh, geometric patterns | Sexy, original, airy | Fragile, hang easily, not very covering |
| Classic tights | Opaque or semi-opaque nylon, covers the entire lower body | Warm, comfortable, easy to wear | Unglamorous, quickly damaged, "sheath" effect |
| Fancy tights | Varied patterns, colors, textures (polka dots, stripes, lace...) | Original, fun, personalize an outfit | Less boilerplate, catch the eye |
| Sculpting tights | Compressive fabric, reinforced on stomach/thighs/buttocks | Shapes the silhouette, refines, maintains | Less comfortable, difficult to put on |
| Plus size tights | Adapted size, stretchy material, comfortable waistband | Easy to wear for everyone, does not tighten | More limited choice, less aesthetic |
| Leggings | Opaque and stretchy fabric, sportswear look | Comfort, freedom of movement, casual | Less dressed, require a long tunic |
| Knee-highs | Stop below the knee, in nylon or wool | Keep warm, vintage, with skirts or shorts | Slip, require garters |
| Stockings and tights | Compressive fabric, different pressure levels | Stimulate circulation, relieve heavy legs | Less aesthetic, medical, difficult to put on |
In summary, there is a wide variety of stockings and tights to suit all tastes, morphologies, occasions and needs. From elegant classic stockings to original fancy tights to sculpting models or large size, there is something for everyone. The choice will be made according to the style, the desired comfort and the intended use (city, evening, relaxation, etc.).
Also discover: Black or Flesh Tights ?
Choose wisely according to your needs and preferences
For what occasions to wear stockings or tights ?
At work
Opt for opaque tights in solid colors (black, navy, gray) under a pencil skirt or straight dress for a professional and elegant look. Avoid bottoms that look too "pin-up".
Evening
This is the perfect opportunity to take out your most beautiful nylon stockings and pair them with a short slit dress or skater skirt for a glamorous and sensual look. Very fine transparent tights are also a must.
Everyday
semi-opaque tights 20 to 40 denier are ideal for everyday wear, comfortable and easy to put on under a skirt or dress. Vary the colors according to your outfits!
Wedding and cocktail
For a dressy outfit, go for delicate fishnet stockings that subtly reveal the skin. Worn with a flowing dress and pumps, they will add a touch of elegance and femininity.
Sports or outdoor outing
Choose opaque tights that are very warm in winter or polar leggings that are comfortable for a walk or a jog. And for a more trendy look, wear patterned tights under denim shorts.
Romantic date
Play the sensuality card with seamless nylon stockings adorned with chic details such as lace edging.Combined with a pretty low-cut dress, they are sure to captivate your lover!
Casual event (picnic, barbecue)
The high crochet socks or the colorful knee-highs will bring a retro and offbeat touch to a casual outfit, perfect with a little floral dress and sandals for a bohemian look .
As the founder of The Oversized Hoodie®, I always recommend choosing stockings or tights based on the occasion and season. For work, opt for opaque tights that combine comfort and professionalism. In the evening, nylon stockings add an irresistible touch of glamour.
— Geoffrey, Founder of The Oversized Hoodie®
Body shape and size: finding the ideal fit
Choose the right size
Be sure to refer to the brand's size guide and measure precisely the top of your thighs for the stockings, and your waist for the tights. An unsuitable size can cause the stockings to slip or the tights to slip.
Gain and sculpt your silhouette
If you want to refine your silhouette, opt for shaping tights with a flat stomach and shaping effect on the buttocks and thighs. Some sculpting stockings also go up to the waist.
Combine stockings and tights with your outfit
Trendy colors and patterns
This season, we're falling for the colored tights which bring a touch of pep to our outfits: mustard yellow, pine green, duck blue... The geometric patterns (checks , houndstooth) are also popular, as are delicate flowers.
Suitable shoes
To highlight your legs, combine your stockings and tights with open shoes such as pumps with pointed toes which lengthen the leg nicely. Avoid boots or ankle boots that hide your pretty stockings!
Focus on innovations and technologies
High performance materials
Brands compete in ingenuity to offer technical materials ultra-comfortable and resistant: microfibers stretchy, elastane threads, cottons organic... Enough to combine well-being and aesthetics.
Durability and resistance
No more spun tights from the first snag! Some ranges are specially designed to be anti-thread, anti-hole and anti-friction. A little extra to make our lingerie last and consume more responsibly.
Also read: How to tell if tights are right side out ?
Where to buy quality stockings and tights ?
To find stockings and tights that combine quality, comfort and style, head to the specialized lingerie boutiques. There is a wide choice and valuable advice on sizes and materials.
The online sites of brands like The Oversized Hoodie and the department stores also offer interesting selections at all prices.And to get good deals, think about sales periods!
Also read: Where to buy the best Fleece Lined Tights transparent ?
Maintain and make your stockings and tights last
Washing and storage tips
- By hand or machine ?
To extend the life of your delicate stockings and tights, wash by hand in lukewarm water with a special lingerie detergent. If you machine wash them, protect them in a net and choose a delicate cycle at 30°C. Ban the spin!
- Optimal storage
Once washed, dry your stockings and tights flat on a towel, away from direct light. Avoid tumble drying which damages the fibers. Store them flat in a drawer, without packing them together, to prevent them from becoming damaged or deformed.
Also read: Wearing Tights With or Without Underwear ?
Anti-thread and anti-hole tips
- Prevent the appearance of holes
When putting on your tights, gather all the tights together at the ankles then carefully pull them up, taking care not to catch your nails or jewelry in the fabric. Moisturize your legs to avoid rough spots that make them run.
- Repair a hitch
In case of small hole or scale on your tights, apply a little clear nail polish all around to limit the extent of the damage. You can also use a mesh stopper to mend.
Recycle and give a second life
When your tights fail you, don't throw them away! They can be used as rags for dusting or for wrapping fragile objects. You can also customize them in mesh by cutting small holes in them, perfect for a rock look. Finally, some brands offer collection points for recycling used tights, find out more!
Caring for your stockings and tights is essential to extend their lifespan. Preferably wash by hand and dry flat to avoid snags and deformation. At The Oversized Hoodie®, we are committed to providing durable, high-quality products so you can enjoy your purchases for as long as possible.
— Geoffrey, Founder of The Oversized Hoodie®
Also read: Which way to wear tights ?
Conclusion
You now know everything to enhance your legs with the right choice of stockings or tights according to your desires and needs.
Don't hesitate to vary the pleasures and dare to use new materials and colors to twist your style.
The most important ? Feel beautiful and confident, no matter the occasion! So it’s up to you to play, and let’s go!
FAQ
When to wear hold-up stockings ?
The holding stockings are practical when you don't want to carry a suspender belt. They are suitable for all occasions and hold well in place thanks to their silicone bands without tightening.Perfect for a retro-chic look!
How high to wear stockings ?
It all depends on the length of your skirt or dress and the desired effect. For a retro look, opt for stockings that reach just above the knee. For a more modern look, choose a mid-thigh height. The main thing is that the edge of the stockings does not protrude!
What are classic stockings ?
The classic stockings are timeless in fine, transparent nylon, often black, which elegantly dress the leg up to the top of the thigh. They are worn with a garter belt and add a glamorous and sensual touch under a skirt or dress.
What does hold-up stockings mean ?
The self-fixing stockings or self-fixing stockings are equipped with a wide non-slip elasticated silicone band at the top of the thigh which allows them to be held in place without wearing a suspender belt . A practical and comfortable solution for a retro look without constraints.
What are tights ?
A tights are a female garment which covers the legs and the stomach, from the foot to the size. Unlike stockings, tights are one piece and do not require a garter belt. They exist in a wide variety of materials, thicknesses and colors to suit all morphologies and all styles. The tights are very comfortable to wear daily and offer a beautiful silhouette.
What is a suspender belt ?
The garter belt is a feminine lingerie accessory which keeps the stockings in place on the thighs. Unlike hold-up stockings with silicone bands, the suspender belt attaches to the waist and is connected to the stockings by adjustable garters. It's a accessory essential for a retro and sexy look.
What is the fundamental difference between stockings and tights ?
The main difference between stockings and tights is that stockings stop at mid-thigh while tights completely cover the legs and belly. Stockings require an accessory such as a garter belt to hold in place, while tights are a standalone garment. Stockings offer more seduction, tights more practicality for everyday life.
How to choose the right size of stockings or tights ?
To choose the right size of stockings or tights, you must refer to the size guide offered by each brand. Sizes generally depend on weight, height and body shape. Some sites like Dim offer interactive tools to find the ideal size. The main thing is to opt for a comfortable size, which is not too tight.
How to avoid threads and holes in your tights ?
To avoid threads and holes in your tights, it is better to opt for models with a high density of deniers , more resistant.Also be careful when putting on, nails and jewelry can cause hooks. machine washing in a protective net and drying flat also increase the life of the tights.
Can you recycle your old worn stockings and tights ?
Yes, you can recycle your old stockings and tights with holes or threads! Many brands like Dim have set up collections in stores. The materials are then reused to create new clothing or accessories. A great way to give a second life to your lingerie while doing something for the planet!
