Yes, you can wear bold tights and still look chic!
It’s true that colored and patterned tights can feel intimidating at first. You love the look on the runway or in your favorite editorials, but styling them in real life? That’s where many women hesitate.
But at Stems, when done right, statement hosiery brings edge and personality to even the most minimal outfit. The key is knowing how to balance your look and let your legs do the talking… without shouting.
Here’s your no-fail guide to wearing colored or patterned tights like a pro.
Start with Neutrals and Build Up
The easiest way to dip your toes (and legs) into bolder tights? Keep everything else neutral.
When going for colored tights, pair them with a black, white, gray, or beige outfit. Think red tights (like our Avery Sheer 10 tights) with a black shift dress. Another idea is pairing them with forest green tights under a camel coat.
If you’re styling patterned tights, consider solid tops and bottoms, which let the print shine. In such a scenario, a monochrome outfit gives your tights all the spotlight they deserve.
Essentially, your tights should act like an “accessory” in your dress. They should enhance it, not overwhelm it.
Choose One Focal Point
If you thought focal points were just a concept in home decor, you’re mistaken there. The focal point in your outfit is the piece that draws all the attention. That is to say, if your tights are bold, keep other statement pieces to a minimum. Skip loud prints, chunky jewelry, or oversized patterns elsewhere.
We recommend choosing one of the following as the focal point of your outfit:
- Your tights
- Your shoes
- Your top
Never all three at once.
The more intentional the styling, the more elevated the final look.
Work Within a Color Story
Bold doesn’t (in fact, shouldn’t) be random. If you’re working with colored tights, think in terms of tones and palettes.
So, if your tights are burgundy or berry, use ivory for the rest of your outfit. You can also choose charcoal.
Try navy or cobalt tights with camel color. Alternatively, keep it analogous by going for a muted blue for the rest of the outfit.
If your tights are emerald green, we’d love them paired with chocolate brown.
Not sure where to start? Look at the undertone of your tights (cool vs. warm) and then match with similar tones in your outfit.
Let Patterned Tights Be the Print
Patterned tights bring enough visual interest on their own, so keep the rest of your outfit clean. (By clean, in no way do we mean boring!).
When styling a pair of fishnet tights, like our Chevron Fishnet Tights, go with a structured piece on top. Like a blazer or denim jacket. Floral or lace tights (we’re eyeing the Wild Flower Tights) pair beautifully with soft fabrics like silk. Tights with polka dots bring a playful touch to your outfit, so they do well with a simple dress and ankle boots.
We’re here for styling like a fashion editor: Add one textured layer (like a wool coat or leather skirt) to give your outfit depth. By doing so, we won’t be competing with the print!
Play with Hemlines and Layers
When wearing bold tights, what you wear them over matters. You want to show just enough leg to let the tights have their moment. For a full-leg impact, go for mini skirts and shirt dresses. They let the tights do the talking. If you want to frame your legs and bring attention downward, pairing tights with mid-thigh coats is a good idea. An unexpected combination is pairing your tights with a midi skirt that has side slits.
Footwear Makes or Breaks the Look
Shoes are quite the bridge between your tights and the rest of your outfit. Here’s what works:
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Colored tights: Go for neutral shoes in black, nude, or white. Or color-block intentionally by choosing a shoe from the same color family (but a different shade).
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Patterned tights: Keep shoes sleek and minimal. Think pointed toe heels, ankle boots, or classic loafers.
Avoid overly strappy or embellished shoes, as these will compete for attention. They can also make the look a bit too busy.
Add Accessories That Work With Your Tights
To pull your whole outfit together without overwhelming it, repeat your tights’ color/print subtly in one other place. For example…
- A burgundy handbag with red tights
- A floral headband that nods to your patterned legwear
- A matching manicure or bold lip in a complementary shade.
The Final Layer? Confidence.
Yes, these tights are a statement. Yes, people will notice. That’s the point.
But the moment you own it, it stops being “too much” and starts being exactly right.
So walk like you meant to wear that bold leg. Because you did.
Outfit Inspiration
Struggling to put your finger on what will work and what won’t? We’ve picked some occasions and designed outfit inspiration for you. Pick your event, take some inspo, and you’ll be ready to style your statement hosiery in the best possible way!
Look 1: Everyday Bold
- Red tights
- Black shift dress
- White sneakers + red crossbody
Look 2: Weekend Cool
- Fishnet tights
- Oversized band tee
- Denim mini skirt + combat boots
Look 3: Brunch-Ready
- Floral mesh tights
- Cream wrap dress
- Gold hoops + nude heels
Look 4: Office Playful
- 30 denier navy tights
- Gray pleated skirt
- Striped knit + loafers
So, Let Those Tights Shine!
Wearing colored or patterned tights doesn’t mean sacrificing elegance. It just means styling with purpose. Start simple, stay balanced, and let your legs lead.
At Stems, we design legwear that elevates your outfit and empowers your energy. Whether you’re slipping into electric red sheers or floral mesh tights, you’re not just dressing up, you’re showing up.
Luxury for Legs. Always.