Professional, polished, and never boring. Your desk deserves better legwear.
Getting dressed for the office doesn’t mean leaving your personal style at the door. In fact, the right pair of tights can make your workwear feel more intentional and a whole lot more you. Whether you’re headed to a meeting or just want to look pulled-together for Monday coffee runs, the right office tights can bring it all together—without compromising on comfort.
At Stems, we believe hosiery should empower your day. Here’s your go-to guide to choosing the best tights for the office!
Why Tights Matter for Office Style
It’s true that tights are often treated as an afterthought in workwear. Most people would just pick the same old pair of black tights, put them on, and call it a day. But that’s far from the truth. Tights can actually be a style strategy if used right (instead of just a layer).
Great tights for the office can instantly refine your outfit. They offer support under tailored pieces. Office tights keep you comfortable while sitting, walking, presenting, or commuting. Plus, as a bonus, they can extend your wardrobe by making skirts and dresses wearable all year.
What to Look for in Office Tights
Not all tights belong in the boardroom. If you’re looking for office tights, you’d want to land the following features:
- Medium to light denier for a sleek, semi-sheer finish (20 to 40 denier would be your sweet spot)
- Matte or satin finish for a subtle glow but without the shine
- Neutral tones like black, charcoal, espresso, or nude. These are easy to pair and professional
- No flashy patterns (unless subtle and tonal, like chevron or micro-dot)
- Supportive waistbands that stay in place during long workdays
- Breathable materials so you’re never uncomfortable during meetings or commutes
The Best Stems Tights for the Office
Here are some of our top picks for chic and wearable tights for the office.
Avery Sheer 10 Tights (Nude or Red)
A must-have for professional polish. These offer a soft and barely-there finish with light support and a control-top waistband. Perfect for pencil skirts and shift dresses.
Stretch Control Sheer Tights (15 to 20 Denier)
Sleek, smoothing, and breathable. The perfect pair for all-day wear with a high-rise fit and subtle compression to keep you confident and comfortable.
Ribbed Micro Pattern Tights
For when you want a little texture without going full statement. These add interest under solid skirts or dresses without distracting from your overall look.
Office Outfit Ideas Featuring Tights
Here are a few timeless (but not boring) ways to style your tights for the office:
The Classic
Look: Black semi-sheer tights + tailored skirt suit + loafers
This look is refined, corporate, and endlessly chic. Add a crisp white shirt and a silk scarf for a bit of flair.
The Modern Minimalist
Look: 30 denier black tights + knit midi dress + ankle boots
The clean lines and simple silhouettes of this look let your tights give subtle polish. Perfect for creative offices.
The Fall Statement
Look: Patterned ribbed tights + corduroy A-line skirt + turtleneck sweater
This office tights layering adds interest without going overboard. Keep accessories muted for balance.
The Soft Power Look
Look: Skin-tone tights + wrap dress + pumps
Why it works: Light coverage smooths the legs without distraction. Ideal for warmer climates or spring workwear.
Shoes That Pair Well with Office Tights
To make your legwear look purposeful instead of last-minute, choose shoes that complement your tights. If you’re wearing sheer or patterned tights, we recommend flats. Loafers especially add a classic touch to such pieces.
For opaque tights (that you will typically use in fall or winter), heeled boots will polish the outfit. Pumps are a natural match for black or sheer nude tights. And when wearing tights under midi skirts, ankle booties keep things modern and chic.
Pro tip: Avoid sandals or open-toe styles. Keep it sleek, not confusing.
How to Transition Your Tights from Desk to Dinner
Tights shouldn’t clock out at 5 PM. With the right outfit tweaks, your office tights can work just as hard after hours. Cinch your office blazer over your dress to elevate the silhouette. Trade your loafers for pumps or boots to transition to a dinner look. Finally, layer on statement jewelry or a bold lip. This takes your tights-and-dress combo from day to evening without needing a full outfit change.
Cold-Weather Office Outfits with Tights
Dropping temps can dull the wardrobe… but if you layer your tights the right way, you can keep yourself warm while still looking stunning. Wearing fleece-lined tights under midi skirts can keep you warm (while letting you rock that short skirt in winter). Double-layered tights give you maximum insulation. And when you pair them with tall boots and wool coats, you get a stunning look even when all layered up in winter.
How to Care for Your Office Tights
A quick run or sagging waistband can derail even the best-dressed morning. Keep your tights in top shape with the following tricks.
- Hand wash or use a mesh bag on delicate cycle
- Air dry flat to maintain elasticity
- Store rolled or folded gently in a drawer (away from rough fabrics or zippers)
- Keep a spare pair in your work bag or desk drawer… you’ll thank yourself later.
Final Thoughts
You don’t need to sacrifice comfort or personality to look professional. The right office tights can boost your confidence and help you show up looking and feeling like your best self.
At Stems, we design tights that work as hard as you do: supportive, stylish, and made to move with you from 9 to after-hours.
Luxury for Legs. Always.