Black hosiery—sheer or fleece-lined depending on what side of 45 degrees we are on—is a staple for winter. But by March, I am itching to experiment. In anticipation of spring, one of my favorite ways to expand my sartorial comfort zone is with bright tights, an easy way to add a bit of unexpected color to an outfit. While royal blue or dandelion yellow stockings can be intimidating to style at first (one doesn’t want to look like a Smurf or Minion, respectively), the dopamine from trying something novel and colorful is worth the risk. Whether you are going for a ’60s French New Wave moment or looking to spice up your usual going-out ensembles, here are three ultra-wearable ways to wear colorful tights.
Mini Dress + Oversized Jacket + Tall Boots
Photo: Christian Vierig/Getty Images
The mini dress and boots combination is as classic as bread and butter, but the oversized jacket and red tights will push this outfit into a full-blown, photo-worthy look for day or night.
Denim + Statement Coat
Photo: Edward Berthelot/Getty Images
If you are unsure how to incorporate colorful tights into your daily style rotation, an easy way to get started is to wear them in place of your usual base layer. If you are wearing tights or leggings under your jeans, try wearing pink or blue tights instead and let them flash from beneath your hems.
Colorful Dress + Sherpa Jacket
Photo: Claudio Lavenia/Getty Images
I am a big proponent of bringing your sundresses out to play in their off-season. If you are feeling bold, match your tights to your brightest mid-length frock and pair with a block-heel pump. Complete the look with a sherpa jacket for a full Penny Lane moment.
