By Rachel Zavecz
Tights are often an essential outfit accessory, regardless of style or occasion – and can even function as an outfit centerpiece. Most obviously in recent fashion, both tights and leggings of all kinds have seen an extreme rise in popularity. This is most likely due to their slimming/smoothing qualities, total comfort and ability to jam with practically anything.
Approaching the springtime months of April and May (and for some more southern locations, late March), the weather often starts to warm on up. Taking dogs on walks and going out for the mail becomes much more endurable – or dare I say it? – even enjoyable. However, the transition between winter and spring is for the most part gradual, and there can still be plenty of chilly nights or daytime winds. Because of this, tights become an extremely viable option for jumping into the spring dress earlier, but retaining some much-needed warmth.
Here I’d like to talk about two basic tight prints that currently seem to dominate the trend-o-sphere, and in addition mention possible dress-types for pairing purposes.
The ombre
Ombre hair, ombre curtains, ombre tights – it seems like ombre has taken over almost every aspect of style possible! For those unaware of this pervasive trend, the term ombre usually refers to a graduate lightening of color normally proceeding from top to bottom. It may seem a simple twist of coloration, however the ombre is often very striking. Because of this, it is probably wise to consider individual ombre-based pieces of clothing as centerpieces of any given outfit.
In specifically considering ombre tights, it’s best to utilize a color block or pattern block strategy. Multiple patterns and a plethora of color may make you look as if you dressed in the dark, so make sure that your dress is solid or uniformly patterned, and complimentary in color to your tights. For example, a pair of pink to white ombre tights with a solid black dress would be very lovely – and consider shoes that either compliment the fade (are the same light color as the bottom), or stand in stark contrast (for this example, consider hot pink shoes or black and pale pink shoes). Patterns can work across a skirt/shorts and shirt (see above photo with patterned skirt and striped shirt), however this is usually the case when the patterns exist in very basic, neutral colors such as black, brown, tan, white, etc. In fact, for the above outfit, I would consider putting a black blazer over the top to create consistency in color and keep focus on the tights.
The faux thigh-high
The over-the-knee sock or “thigh-high” is another trend in recent fashion that has exploded almost everywhere. Pairing tall socks with fluttering dresses or layering them over leggings in colder climates now seems like merely good sense. However, as the weather warms up, wearing chunky socks becomes less appealing. In addition, keeping those socks from falling down can definitely be a hassle. One solution is the faux thigh-high – tights that imitate the look of tall socks without the heat or hassle.
In the above picture, the tights utilize pattern to create the illusion of the sock and pair great with a skirt+sweater combo or a darkly colored dress. While patterns make these tights more of a centerpiece, it is possible to utilize this style as a primary accessory as well. For example, a pair of tights in this style may have the faux-sock portion in dark black while the top is a paler or less opaque black. This gives the illusion of wearing tall black socks over pantyhose – an accessory that has the potential versatility to go with any dress. Pairing said black tights with a tall black wedge gives the option of a black dress and color-popping accessories or a brightly colored solid or even patterned dress. As a final note for the most fashionable daring, high-waisted shorts also make a great combination.
As the snow reluctantly gives way to flowers and sunshine, remember that you are no longer confined to layers of jeans and fleece-lined leggings. Although it may seem a bit too cold for a dress by itself, throw on some jazzy tights and rock what you want. Whether you utilize pattern, color-shifts, or some simply solid tights, don’t let a chilly breeze challenge your vision of the day’s choice outfit.
