coloured tights, blue tights — Image via Launchmetrics/Spotlight

Making the Case for Coloured Tights

While big splurges are special, sometimes the smallest new closet addition (read: a pair of coloured hosiery) makes all the difference.

By Natalie Michie

Date April 11, 2025

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When I come to work at the FASHION office, I like to show up in an oddball clothing concoction, often predicated on my love for unusual stockings. I’ve worn lavender nylons with a grey blazer dress. I’ve paired crimson tights with cream suede separates. I’ve colour-blocked olive green hosiery with a checkered skirt and a two-toned vest, creating a maximalist tableau that would surely horrify The Row-loving minimalists of the world. But I don’t mind. Lately, I’m having way too much fun getting dressed.

It all started a year ago, when I challenged myself to wear only red tights every day for a week (in the name of journalism, of course). What began as a daunting experiment ended with me discovering a new side to my style. In an era when shopping feels fraught, I’ve found that this one small purchase can revamp any outfit.

My go-to is Canadian retailer Sheertex, which offers red, maroon and bright blue tights in their signature rip-resistant material. Montreal-based brand From Rachel has some great picks, too, from deep plums to coffee hues. In my book, coloured tights are a gateway to complete clothing creativity — and I’m not alone.

colored tights — Photography by @denisogrinc

While running around New York Fashion Week (as pictured above), bold stockings were a part of my everyday uniform. And as I’ve analyzed and observed the stylish sidewalks across fashion capitals, colourful tights have been a constant. From the dopamine-dressing community in Copenhagen to the muted moods in Milan, there is an undeniable appetite for lively legs. Everywhere I look, the bottom halves of outfits are parading pops of vibrancy. It’s whacky. It’s weird. It’s unadulterated joy materialized. And in 2025, we could all use more of that.