Reading Laura Weir’s article in Vogue UK got me thinking about when the last time was that I wore sheer tights. It may have been for a costume party, I’m not sure. But, after brief sightings here and there on runways the last few seasons, they’ve made their way back. Saint Laurent may be responsible for officially legitimizing them, pairing sheer black tights with short dresses and minis on the Spring 15 runway. But, I have to wonder if they’re a lost cause for women who wore them back in the 70’s and 80’s, or earlier. I can see the novelty factor for young women who’ve never wore or even owned a pair of sheer tights, but if this is the second go round, could the effect be aging? Then I thought of Carine Roitfeld, who always looks incredibly chic and often covers her legs in tights. And Diane von Furstenberg’s Fall collection had a certain appeal with every model wearing french dot sheers in looks I could relate to, if only for evening. I’m curious if they’ll have staying power and be embraced by women. Are they a welcome return and will you wear them?
Source: Photos: ©Vogue UK September 2015; Pinterest; ©Style.com
Genie
I think Kate Middleton has helped this trend return. I like the idea of texture. Fishnet tights are always chic, I wear them in nude and black sometimes.
Karima
Absolutely! She has definitely had an impact on their increased exposure. I like fishnets too, they’re beautiful and less delicate than sheers.
Liz
I will happily wear them to hide the aging skin on my legs! Plus I’m always cold and they warm me up a bit. Glad to see their return.
Karima
Good point! Those are great reasons to embrace them. I’m always cold too.
carrie
I wore them in the 80’s so after some hesitation I decided to give them another try. I will embrace this trend on occasion because frankly they make your legs look great, at any age!
Karima
Can’t disagree there!
Elbe
Not sure why they are being called “sheer tights”. They are pantyhose in a darker shade. I wear them whenever I wear a dress or skirt to work. Our dress code requires it but I would wear them even if it didn’t. We can’t wear open toe shoes or sandals so no problem there. They definitely add polish.
Karima
In the U.S., they’re called pantyhose but in the UK they’re tights…sheer or opaque. They definitely add polish and look absolutely appropriate in most business settings. Bare legged looks are not for everyone and can even ruin a perfectly pulled together look. My lifestyle is very casual, so I haven’t had the need for them, but I’ll be giving them a try again this year…what brand do you like best?