When it comes to office attire, tights are a powerful tool in your wardrobe arsenal. They offer warmth, comfort, and style, all while adding a polished, professional touch to your outfits. However, wearing tights for the office requires a delicate balance. You want to look chic and professional without straying into too-casual or overly bold territory. So, how do you wear tights in a way that enhances your office ensemble?
In this guide, we’ll break down how to style tights for the workplace, what to pair them with, and how to choose the right type to match the tone of your office environment. From colour to texture and everything in between, let’s dive into how to wear tights confidently at work.
Why Tights Belong in Your Office Wardrobe
Tights are practical, versatile, and undeniably stylish. But when it comes to the office, the stakes are higher. The good news is, with a few simple tips, tights can make your work outfit look more put-together without much effort.
First, they provide extra warmth, which is perfect if your office insists on blasting the air conditioning all year long. Secondly, they allow you to wear skirts and dresses year-round without worrying about exposing too much leg. Tights also help you feel more comfortable in shorter hemlines, and they can even make your outfit look more professional by adding a layer of sophistication.
However, not all tights are created equal. The key is knowing what styles are appropriate for the office and how to wear them in a way that complements your overall look.
The Best Tights Colours for a Professional Look
When it comes to the workplace, colour is everything. The wrong shade can take your outfit from boardroom ready to weekend casual in the blink of an eye. So, what colours should you stick to if you want to wear tights to the office?
Black Tights: The Timeless Classic
You can never go wrong with black tights. They’re slimming, they go with virtually any outfit, and they create a sleek, streamlined look. Black tights also offer a professional edge that feels polished without being too overpowering. For a standard office, they’re usually the best option, especially in more conservative workplaces. Pair black tights with a knee-length skirt, tailored dress, or smart shift dress for an easy win.
Neutral Tones: Subtle and Elegant
If you’re in a more formal work environment, you may want to consider nude or neutral tights. The trick is to find a shade that closely matches your skin tone. This way, it looks like you’re bare-legged, but with the added coverage and polish that tights provide. These are perfect for spring and summer when you still want a polished look without the added warmth of black tights.
Grey Tights: Chic but Understated
Grey tights offer an alternative to black and give off a softer vibe while still maintaining professionalism. Dark grey works well with darker outfits, while lighter grey can soften an otherwise hard look. They’re particularly effective when paired with softer hues like pale pink, beige, or cream.
Avoid Bright or Bold Colours
While it may be tempting to experiment with bold colours or funky patterns, save these for the weekend or more creative, casual office environments. For a traditional office setting, stick to more neutral tones to avoid drawing attention to your legs for the wrong reasons.
Choosing the Right Denier for the Office
Not sure what denier means? It’s the thickness of the tights, and yes, it matters. The higher the denier, the thicker and more opaque the tights will be. Lower denier numbers indicate sheerer tights. But which is best for the office?
Sheer Tights (10–30 Denier)
Sheer tights offer a lightweight look that works well in the warmer months. These are perfect for the office when you want just a touch of coverage without fully covering your legs. Stick to black or nude shades for the office, and avoid anything that looks too shiny or shimmery.
Semi-Opaque Tights (40–60 Denier)
If you’re looking for something that sits between sheer and opaque, semi-opaque tights are a fantastic choice. These tights give your legs coverage without being too thick, making them ideal for autumn and spring. They also offer a bit more structure than sheer tights, which makes them perfect for a professional setting.
Opaque Tights (70–100+ Denier)
For the colder months, you’ll want to opt for thicker tights, especially if you’re working in an environment where you’re likely to be sitting all day. Opaque tights are a great choice for winter, offering warmth while still looking sleek and professional. Black opaque tights paired with ankle boots or loafers are a classic winter office look that never goes out of style.
What to Pair with Tights for the Office
Wearing tights to work means considering your entire outfit to make sure everything works in harmony. Tights should complement your ensemble, not compete with it.
Skirts and Dresses
When styling skirts or dresses with tights, make sure the hemline is office appropriate. As a rule of thumb, your skirt should be knee-length or just above the knee. Anything shorter might be too casual for a formal office setting. A-line skirts, pencil skirts, and shift dresses are ideal when paired with tights, giving you a polished and professional appearance.
Footwear
Not all shoes pair well with tights, so it’s important to choose wisely. Ankle boots, loafers, or court shoes tend to be the safest options. Avoid open-toed shoes with tights, as it can look outdated or simply out of place in the office. If you’re opting for boots, make sure they’re clean and polished to keep your outfit looking sharp.
Layering for a Polished Look
To pull your tights look together, layering is key. Consider adding a structured blazer, tailored coat, or cardigan over your dress or skirt. This creates a refined, cohesive outfit that’s office-ready. Layers also allow you to adjust for temperature changes throughout the day, keeping you comfortable whether you’re at your desk or in a meeting.
Dos and Don’ts of Wearing Tights at Work
Let’s quickly cover some dos and don’ts to keep your tights game strong in the office:
Do:
- Choose a shade that complements your outfit.
- Opt for sheer tights in warmer months, opaque tights in colder months.
- Stick to neutrals and darker colours for a more professional look.
Don’t:
- Wear tights with ladders, tears, or holes. Always have a spare pair in your desk drawer!
- Choose bright colours or bold patterns unless your office is more on the creative side.
- Pair tights with overly casual footwear like trainers or flip-flops.
Final Thoughts: Confidence is Key
Tights can be a powerful addition to your office wardrobe if styled correctly. The right pair can make your outfit feel more polished, help you brave the cold, and add an extra layer of sophistication. Stick to neutral tones, appropriate hemlines, and sleek layering for a look that’s both professional and stylish. Whether you’re navigating a formal corporate environment or a more relaxed office, tights are a wardrobe essential that you can rely on time and time again. Just remember: confidence is the best accessory you can wear.
