Key Takeaways
- Locate the front and back of the tights using clues such as the central seam or the stitch loops.
- Gently put on the tights by gently unrolling them over your legs, without pulling or forcing.
- Adjust the tights well once put on for optimal comfort and to avoid creases or areas that are too tight.
The French brand
Introduction
We understand your frustrations when your new tights tear as soon as you put them on. This is why we have prepared this detailed guide to help you put on your tights easily, without damaging them and maximizing their lifespan.
Whether you are a beginner or experienced with tights, this article will provide you with valuable tips adapted to all types of tights: classic, maternity or restraint. Ready to say goodbye to spun tights? Follow our wise advice!
- 130 M pairs of tights sold each year in France, of which 104 million end up thrown away, representing approximately 7,315 tonnes of textile waste. [1]
- 14,000 km of yarn, 750 liters of water and a large quantity of allergenic dyes are required to make a single pair of tights, contributing to significant pollution. [2]
- 70% of tights are used no more than 6 times in France, and almost 40% are only worn 3 times before being thrown away.[3]
Understanding the different types of tights
Classic tights
Classic tights are probably the most common and versatile. They can be opaque, semi-opaque or transparent, made of nylon, cotton or silk. Their primary function is to even out the complexion of the legs and to bring a touch of sophistication to an outfit.
Maternity tights
Specially designed for pregnant women, these tights offer additional support around the stomach for optimal comfort. They are generally made of stretchy fibers like elastane to adapt to changes in the figure.
Compression tights
compression tights, also called compression stockings, exert graduated pressure on the legs. They are recommended to promote blood circulation and prevent varicose veins or heavy legs during pregnancy, for example.
Also read: Which way to wear tights?
Putting on tights easily: key steps
Preparation before putting on tights
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Make sure your legs and feet are perfectly dry and lightly powdered to make the textile easier to slide on. Remove any jewelry or accessories that could snag or tear the mesh.
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Locate the direction of the tights using the central seam at the back or the downward-facing stitch loops on the right side. This is a crucial point for successful donning.
As specialists in comfortable clothing, we emphasize the importance of properly preparing your legs before putting on tights. Dry, lightly powdered skin allows the textile to glide smoothly for an impeccable result.
— Geoffrey, Founder ofThe Oversized Hoodie®
Method for putting on tights without stringing them
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Gently unroll one leg of the tights to the foot, holding it by the end. Slide it over your leg without pulling, smoothing the fabric as you go. Repeat for the other leg.
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Here is a summary table of the actions to be preferred:
| Actions to do | Actions to avoid |
|---|---|
| Unroll gently | Pulling too hard |
| Smooth the fabric | Sudden gestures |
| Bend your chest | Jewelry/Long nails |
Finalize donning: adjustments and comfort
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Once both legs are on, gently pull the tights up to the waist, smoothing the fabric. Make adjustments as necessary so that there are no wrinkles or tight areas.
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The tights should be tight without compressing you. Here are some tips for an optimal fit:
- Use twisting movements of the bust to pull up the tights
- Keep legs still during adjustments
- Check that there are no areas that are too tight on the thighs or stomach
Our many years of experience have taught us that perfectly fitted tights are the key to a successful look and optimal comfort all day long. Don't hesitate to take the time necessary to smooth the fabric and remove unwanted wrinkles.
— Geoffrey, Founder ofThe Oversized Hoodie®
Use accessories to help put on tights
- You can use a pair of cotton gloves to get a better grip on the delicate textile.
- Another tip is to put your tights on over a pair of cotton socks which you will then remove.
Mistakes to avoid when putting on tights
- Never pull too hard on the tights, this could tear them or create snags.
- Don't put your tights on by mistake either.
- Avoid wearing jewelry or long nails that will catch the stitches.
I remember a customer who contacted us a little before Christmas 2023, frustrated that she had torn her brand new tights the first time she tried to put them on.
After listening carefully to his story, we understood that the problem came from a lack of preparation. Her legs weren't dry enough, preventing the delicate fabric from sliding properly.
Since then, we have always insisted on the crucial importance of properly preparing your skin before putting it on. A small gesture that can make all the difference!
Also read: How to Recognize the Front and Back of Tights?
Manage specific donning difficulties
Put on tights while pregnant
For future mothers, opt for maternity tights with a wide, comfortable waistband. Sit down to put on more easily the legs one by one. Once standing, gently pull the tights up over the rounded stomach.
Put on compression tights
compression tights require more effort to put on. Start by unrolling them well before slipping them onto your feet and legs. Use gloves for better grip. Once at mid-thigh, stand up to finish pulling them up.
Also read: Tights or support stockings?
Tips for preserving the life of tights
Avoid threading the tights: precautions and tips
To prevent your tights from spinning, cut the excess threads with small, very sharp scissors. You can also apply a drop of clear nail polish to emerging tears to stop them. Finally, choose opaque tights which will better hide small defects.
Care for tights for a longer life
After each wear, gently rinse your tights in cold water to remove perspiration. Wash them by hand with a mild detergent or machine wash cold, in a washing net. Dry them flat in the shade, without twisting them or drying them in the dryer. Good care is the key to long-lasting tights!
Also read: How do you know if tights are right side up?
Solutions to common problems
Repair a pulled wire
If, despite your precautions, a wire has become detached, do not cut it! Secure it with a drop of fabric glue or clear varnish to prevent further dripping.
Adjusting tights that are too big or too small
A tights that are too big can easily slip. Use a small clothespin or elastic to hold it at the waist. If it is too small, avoid pulling on it too much so as not to damage it. Prefer to buy one size larger.
Also read: Tights that fall: too big or too small?
Conclusion
Putting on your tights without spinning or damaging them is a small daily challenge, but with the right techniques, it's child's play! By following our sound advice, you will be able to easily put on your classic tights, maternity or compression tights, while maximizing their lifespan.
No longer be afraid of snags and pulled threads. Adopt our tips for an impeccable look from morning until evening!
| Step | Description | Advice | Mistakes to avoid |
|---|---|---|---|
| Preparation | Make sure your legs and feet are dry. Remove jewelry or accessories that could snag. | Lightly powdering the legs can help. | Put on the tights with damp hands or feet. |
| Identification of meaning | Locate the center back seam and the stitch loops facing down. | Take the time to identify the front and back. | Ignore the orientation of the stitch loops. |
| Donning | Gently unroll the tights on one leg, then the other, without pulling. | Use gentle, gradual movements. | Pulling too hard or using sudden movements. |
| Adjustments | Put the tights up gently, adjust to avoid creases or tight areas. | Twisting movements of the bust to adjust without moving the legs. | Leave areas that are too tight or creases. |
| Useful accessories | Cotton gloves for better grip, cotton socks for easier donning. | Accessories can prevent snags. | Using jewelry or having long nails when putting on. |
| Post-use maintenance | Wash by hand or machine cold, in a washing net. Dry flat. | Good maintenance extends the lifespan. | Wash warm or tumble dry. |
FAQ
How to recognize the front and back of tights?
To identify the front of the tights, locate the central vertical seam at the back. You can also observe the direction of the stitch loops: right side up, they face downwards.
What is the meaning of tights?
A tights have a precise meaning to respect in order to put them on correctly. The front can be recognized by the stitching or the stitch loops facing downwards. The tights must be worn in this direction for optimal results.
How to put on tights easily?
Follow these steps: locate the direction, unwind one leg to the foot, slide it delicately over your leg without pulling. Repeat for the other leg then raise the tights to the waist, smoothing the fabric.
Which side should be sticky?
The tights must be put on with the central vertical seam at the back. This is the side where the clothing label is usually located.
Tighty 2 lines front or back?
If your tights have two seam lines, they must be at the front. This is an additional clue to identify the location of the garment.
How to put tights right side out?
Observe the direction of the stitch loops: right side up, they face downwards. It is in this sense that you must put on the tights.
Which way should you wear maternity tights?
As with classic tights, maternity tights must be put on with the central seam at the back. The wide belt will be worn comfortably on the rounded stomach.
How to put on compression tights?
Unroll the restraint tights completely before putting them on. Use gloves for better grip. Pull it back up gently, gradually straightening up.
How to put tights on the front and back?
There is no "front and back" on tights. Identify the center back seam and the stitch loops facing right side down for donning correctly.
How to put on tights without spinning them?
Follow these tips: use cotton gloves or socks, avoid jewelry and long nails, don't pull the fabric too hard. Put on delicately, smoothing the fabric as you go.
Références
[1] "Une alternative révolutionnaire à l'obsolescence programmée des collants ordinaires", Le Journal de l'Eco
[2] "Les collants, l'un des pires pollueurs de la mode", Nouvel Observateur
[3] "La malédiction du collant qui s'effile", OWCA
