Tights have the power to uplift your outfit, and sometimes, with just the right pair, even change your mood entirely. Sheer, silky, opaque, cozy; each one tells a different story. The secret? Denier. Those little numbers, from 5 to 100, decide if your tights are whisper light or confidently bold, so you must get them right to match the stunning statement you want to make.
And… we’re here to help you with that.
What is Denier?
Denier is basically the thickness of the yarn used for making tights. It measures the weight (grams) of 9000 meters of yarn.
The higher the denier number rises, the thicker (and more opaque) the hosier gets. Conversely, a lower denier means a more delicate, sheer fabric.
Understanding denier is essential in the sense that it not only determines how your tights look but also how they feel on your legs. Different deniers mean varying levels of warmth and coverage, helping you tailor your choice based on the season, style, and occasion.
Different Tights Deniers (+ their Look & Feel)
Different deniers have different looks, and, of course, feel different on the skin.
Ultra Sheer [5-10 Denier]
Tights that almost look invisible. Like a whisper on your skin. They smooth the appearance of your legs with just a light hint of coverage. Perfect for summer weddings and warm evenings, when you want your legs to look polished without a chunky layer. They’ve got a lovely “barely-there” effect that feels like a makeup primer for your legs. But they’re fragile. You will need to be extra gentle. Even a sharp nail or ring can snag them.
Sheer [15-20 Denier]
The sweet spot for everyday sheer tights. They bring more durability than the ultra-sheer ones, but still feel delicate. You will love them for a day-to-night look, or even under a formal office outfit. Polished & natural, your legs will look refined, with just enough coverage. Try nude tones for a more sleek vibe. Black for timeless chic.
Semi-Sheer [30-40 Denier]
Now we’re stepping into slightly bolder territory. Semi-sheer tights give you more noticeable coverage but still let a touch of skin peek through. Think “effortless sophistication” that exudes a soft veil of color. Absolutely perfect for transitional seasons like spring and autumn. They’re durable enough to last longer than sheers but still light enough to feel elegant.
Opaque Light [50-60 Denier]
This is where tights really start to make a statement. At 50 denier and above, you’re getting solid coverage. No skin peeks through unless you’re in very bright light.
Sleek. Modern. Fashion-forward. Wear them on cooler days when you need warmth without going fully thick.
Opaque Classic [70-80 Denier]
Cozy and confident. At this denier level, tights feel thicker and warmer. They become a practical layering piece (but still look chic). Throw on a pair when the temperatures dip. They’re bold and streamlined, durable and forgiving. Everything you need for a soft, elegant winter outfit.
Heavy Opaque [100 Denier]
The tights you will reach for when it’s freezing outside. 100 denier tights are completely opaque, thick, and cozy. No skin, just a solid block of color.
When to wear? Deep winter. Snow days. Anytime warmth comes first. Your legs look sleek, but you stay comfortable, especially if you choose rich tones like navy, burgundy, or charcoal.
Choosing the Right Denier
Though picking the right denier is a lot about personal preference, it’s also about the weather and the event. For example, you’d want to go low on warm days or special occasions with ultra-sheer or sheer tights. Semi-sheer for in-between seasons; opaque light for cooler days in the city; classic opaque for true winter wear.
Takeaway: The “right” denier is what makes you feel perfectly dressed for the moment.
High Denier vs. Low Denier
Four primary differences between low vs. high denier: strength, durability, thickness, and opacity. High-denier tights take the lead in all four. On the other hand, a pair of low-denier tights looks stunning, but is much more susceptible to a snag/tear.
It’s all about the level of thickness in the thread. Low denier uses thinner threads, hence the easy damage. Nonetheless, it’s the perfect choice for warmer months or whenever your outfit needs a stunning accessory.
Styling Tights by Denier
The right denier is about warmth, yes, but it’s also about the style statement you want to make. Low-denier tights, for example, look more elegant. Ideal with cocktail dresses, pencil skirts, or flowy evening outfits. Mid-denier is versatile; pair it with tailored dresses or oversized sweaters- the choice is yours. Finally, higher denier (opaques and heavy opaques) are for adding drama to your cozy winter look. Bold and sleek.
Color and Denier: the Double Effect
The magic isn’t just in the number, but also in the shade you choose…
- Lower denier black tights- Soft shadow effect
- Lower denier nude tights- Natural, polished look
- Mid-denier colors (grey or navy)- Subtle sophistication
- High-denier bold shades (burgundy, forest green, chocolate)- Favorite for winter wardrobes
FAQs
Are high-denier tights warmer?
The higher the denier, the thicker the yarn, the more the coverage. So, yes, the value of tights denier makes a significant difference in how warm/cozy it feels.
Can I wear sheer tights in winter?
You can, but layering helps. Try sheer tights under long boots or pair them with tall socks for warmth + style, together.
Do colored tights look better in high or low denier?
Colors tend to show more vividly in higher deniers. Lower deniers will give a softer wash of color.
Tights at Stems
Shop for tights and stockings at STEMS and discover our huge collection of fabulous styles. Rifle through fishnets, black tights, sheer hosiery, hold-ups, stockings, and find your perfect pair.
Build your collection with a range from 5 to 100 denier, and you’ll always have the perfect pair, no matter the season, the outfit, or the moment.
