Which Way to Put on Tights: Identifying the Back and Right Side

November 09, 2023 Geoffrey Lamri

Key Takeaways

It is important to clearly identify the back and the right side of tights before putting them on, to avoid problems such as visible seams. You can identify the location by the central seam at the back and any fancy at the front. You must then put it on by pulling it gently along the legs. For greater ease, you can use gloves or chasubles. Be careful to adjust the size and length according to your morphology.

The French brand The Oversized Hoodie® 🇫🇷 is famous for its high-end fleece tights , 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 quality-price ratio, providing an unrivaled feeling of comfort.

Introduction

Tights are an indispensable accessory for women's wardrobes. Whether black, opaque or fancy, it offers style and comfort to enhance our outfits. However, to enjoy it fully, you still need to know how to put it in the right direction!

An accessory as essential as tights deserves that we take the time to put them on correctly. It's a small gesture that will make a big difference in your look.
— Geoffrey, Founder of The Oversized Hoodie®

Importance of wearing tights correctly

Putting your tights inside out can lead to several inconveniences. First of all, the seams often visible on the back of the tights can irritate the skin of the legs and be unsightly. Then, if the tights have patterns or fancy on the right side, these will end up at the back of the leg, completely ruining the desired effect. Finally, tights worn inside out will tend to fit the shapes less well and to relax more quickly.

Preparation before putting on tights

Before putting on tights, it is recommended to prepare your skin well. To do this, you can lightly exfoliate the legs and hydrate them with a cream for more softness. Avoid applying creams that are too greasy which could weaken it. Cut your nails and remove your ankle jewelry so as not to snag it. Finally, make sure you have clean and dry hands to handle it.

Choice of suitable tights

Depending on the desired effect and your outfit, there are different types of tights: thin, opaque, patterns, color, etc. Choose carefully the one that suits your figure and your tastes for a harmonious finish. Don't hesitate to have several stockings in reserve in case of a pulled thread. Check that the size (S, M, L.) matches your body shape well.

Also read: How to wear tights correctly?

Identify the front and back of tights

To differentiate the back of the tights from the front, several elements should be monitored:

The central seam located at the back of the legs. It makes it easy to spot the back of the tights.
Any patterns or fancy positioned on the front of the tights only. They indicate the place.
The reinforcement area at the crotch level is located at the front.
The tights may have a label indicating the location, generally on the inside of the waist.

Just look closely at your tights and identify these different clues before putting them on. When in doubt, don't hesitate to put it in front of you to see where the aesthetic details are.

Recognize the back and the right side of tights

Here are some useful tips to avoid making mistakes between the back and the right side of tights:

Turn it inside out and look for the longitudinal seam in the center of the tights. She points to the backside.
Look for patterns on one side. This is the place side.
Slide the tights between your fingers and feel: the right side is softer than the reverse.
Fold it in half lengthwise, right sides together. The center seam must be on the outside .
Put it in front of a source of light. The place lets in more light.

With a little practice, identifying the back and the right side of the tights will become a reflex!

Also read: Where to buy the best transparent fleece tights?

Put on tights correctly

Once the right side and the back have been distinguished, it is time to move on to the donning stage.

The stages

Sit comfortably on a chair or your bed.
Take the tights by both feet, right side outside.
Put on one leg by pulling gently on the bottom to adjust it.
Do the same with the other leg.
Then carefully pull the tights up on the thighs and buttocks.

Check the correct position of the back seam and adjust the size to your body shape.

Tips to avoid mistakes

Avoid jewelry on your ankles and long nails.

Make sure your hands are clean, dry and free of cream.

Do not force if the tights stick. Pull it down to unlock.

For better adhesion, sprinkle your legs with talcum powder before putting them on.

Be careful of rings and buttons which can damage it.

Tips for difficult tights

Certain very thin or lycra tights can be complicated to put on. Here are some tips:

Put cotton gloves to optimize grip.

Sprinkle the inside of the tights with talcum powder or use a chasuble.

Run the tights under cold water for more flexibility.

First put on only the foot and then go up slowly.

With patience and delicate movements, you will be able to put on your tights without a hitch!

The secret to durable tights? Patience is your greatest asset, especially when putting on and taking off your pairs of tights.
— Geoffrey, Founder of The Oversized Hoodie®

Also read: Tights that fall: too big or too small?

The special case of maternity tights

Maternity tights have the special feature of having an elasticated waist high and very stretchy to adapt to all bellies. To put them on correctly:

First put on the tights under the stomach by making them slide upwards.

Position then each leg one after the other.

Put the tights up tightly over your buttocks and stomach.

The elasticity allows it to be adjusted continuously according to the morphology.

Thanks to their comfortable material and their adapted support, maternity tights offer style and well-being during pregnancy.

Also read: Which tights with a navy blue dress?

Wearing stockings: instructions

Unlike tights, stockings stop at the top of the thigh or knee. To wear them well:

Identify the location using the seams or patterns.

First put the foot in the bottom, holding it by the end.

Gently pull the stocking along the leg to fit it properly.

Go up to the top of the thigh or knee depending on the model.

Check the correct position of the seam at the back of the leg.

For more support, you can wear a suspender belt.

Choose your stockings in the right size for better comfort.

Prefer pleasant materials such as nylon or cotton.

Avoid jewelry and nails which could damage the stockings.

By taking the time to put on your stockings correctly, you will be able to display this magnificent accessory in complete elegance.

What about support stockings?

Compression stockings are stockings that exert slight compression on the legs. They have very specific properties.

When to wear support stockings?

Medical compression stockings are recommended in cases of:

Legs heavy and painful

Varicose veins

Phlebitis

Blood circulation disorders

They effectively relieve these problems. But it is preferable to wear them on medical prescription.

What are compression stockings actually used for?

They exert decreasing pressure to stimulate blood circulation.

They support the venous walls.

They avoid venous stasis.

They prevent the appearance or worsening of varicose veins.

They provide a feeling of lightness in the legs.

When worn correctly, compression stockings are very beneficial in relieving various venous conditions of the legs.

Also read: Tights or support stockings?

In summary: how to put on tights?

To summarize, it is essential to clearly distinguish the back of the tights from the right side before putting them on, by identifying the back seam and any patterns. Donning should be done gently, without forcing. A few tips make it easier on delicate tights. Maternity stockings and tights have particularities to be aware of. And medical compression stockings provide real relief in the event of circulatory problems.

To choose the right tights, don't hesitate to try several sizes and colors. Prefer pleasant materials like nylon for better comfort. Avoid tights that are too small which could become loose or tear. good size and quality tights will last longer.

With these tips simple, you will now know how to put on tights the right way so you can use them to your advantage! Your wardrobe will no longer hold any secrets for you.

Also read: How to choose the perfect fleece tights?

FAQ

How to put on tights the right way?

You must locate the central seam at the back and any patterns on the front to identify the location of the black or opaque tights. We then put it on leg by leg, pulling gently downwards to avoid damaging it.

Can we wear stockings and socks together?

Yes, you can layer a stocking and a sock like a slipper sock for example for more support and warmth. Be sure to pull the bottom up before putting the sock on top. It’s a very trendy accessory!

What should I do if my tights have a hole at the toe?

You can try to tighten it with a few stitches. Otherwise, it is better to throw away tights with holes, otherwise they risk threading and tearing further. Choose the correct size to avoid this problem.

Can I wear novelty tights with all clothes?

More original or patterned tights go better with dresses and skirts. Avoid the faux pas of pairing them with classic pants. Opt for classic tights in this case.

Should I be afraid of putting my stockings on inside out?

No, don't stress! Even when turned inside out, stockings remain comfortable and aesthetic. No one will notice the seam except you. The important is to feel good in your tights!

How to put on maternity tights?

To put on maternity tights, start by putting them on under your stomach, sliding them upwards. Then delicately position each leg one after the other, checking that the end of the tights covers the foot. Pull the tights up tightly over your buttocks, stomach and lower back. Thanks to the elasticity of the maternity tights, you can easily adjust them to your body shape throughout the pregnancy.

How to put on tights?

To put on tights correctly, first identify the location using the seams or patterns. Pass the foot through the stocking, holding the end, then carefully go up the leg. Make sure the tip of the tights completely covers the foot and toes. Adjust the height to the top of the thigh and check the position of the back seam. You can wear a pair of socks underneath for added support and adjustments.

Mis à jour le 8 avril 2024