Navigating the world of tights can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially with the wide array of styles, materials, and features available. Whether you’re a seasoned tights wearer or new to the world of hosiery, this A-Z glossary will help you understand the essential terms and concepts associated with tights, making it easier to find the perfect pair for any occasion.
A – Ankle Tights
Tights designed to stop at the ankle, often worn with shoes that cover the foot entirely, such as boots. These are ideal for adding warmth without the full leg coverage.
B – Body Shaping Tights
Tights that incorporate control panels to shape and smooth the silhouette, particularly around the stomach, hips, and thighs. These are popular for creating a more streamlined appearance under fitted clothing.
C – Compression Tights
Tights that apply gentle pressure to the legs, promoting circulation and reducing swelling. They are often used by athletes for recovery or by those who spend long periods sitting or standing, such as during travel.
D – Denier
A unit of measurement that indicates the thickness of the yarn used in tights. Lower denier numbers (e.g., 7-10) are more sheer, while higher numbers (e.g., 60-70) indicate thicker, more opaque tights.
E – Elasticated Waistband
The stretchable waistband at the top of tights, designed to keep them securely in place without digging into the skin.
F – Fishnet Tights
A style of tights with an open, diamond-shaped knit that resembles a fishing net. Fishnets are often associated with edgier, more daring fashion choices but can be styled in various ways for different looks.
G – Gusset
A diamond-shaped piece of fabric sewn into the crotch area of tights. This feature improves fit, comfort, and durability by reducing stress on the seams.
H – Hold-Ups
Tights or stockings that stay up on their own, typically without the need for a garter belt, thanks to a silicone-lined band around the top of the thigh. They offer a convenient alternative to full tights.
I – Invisible Reinforcement
A subtle reinforcement in areas like the toes and heels of tights, designed to increase durability without being visible, making them ideal for wearing with open-toe shoes.
J – Jacquard
A type of fabric or knitting technique that allows for intricate patterns and designs to be woven directly into the tights, offering a more textured and decorative look.
K – Knee-High Tights
Tights that stop just below the knee, often worn with longer skirts or dresses. These provide warmth and coverage for the lower leg while allowing for more flexibility and comfort.
L – Lycra
A brand name for elastane, a synthetic fiber known for its exceptional elasticity. Lycra is often blended with other fibers in tights to provide stretch, comfort, and a snug fit.
M – Microfiber
A very fine synthetic fiber used in some tights for a soft, smooth finish. Microfiber tights are known for their comfort and durability, often feeling softer against the skin than traditional nylon.
N – Nylon
A synthetic fiber commonly used in tights, known for its strength, elasticity, and sheen. Nylon tights are available in a wide range of deniers and are a staple in most hosiery collections.
O – Opaque Tights
Tights with a high denier, typically 40 or above, that offer full coverage with no transparency. These are ideal for cooler weather and can be found in a variety of colors.
P – Patterned Tights
Tights featuring a variety of designs, from polka dots and stripes to florals and geometrics. Patterned tights are perfect for adding visual interest to an outfit.
Q – Queen Size
A sizing term used for tights designed to fit plus-sized individuals. These tights are typically made with more generous proportions in the waist, hips, and thighs to provide a comfortable fit.
R – Reinforced Toe
A thicker, more durable section at the toe of tights, designed to reduce wear and tear. This feature is particularly useful for preventing holes or runs in the toe area.
S – Seamed Tights
Tights that feature a seam running up the back of the leg, reminiscent of vintage hosiery styles. Seamed tights add a touch of retro glamour to any outfit.
T – Tummy Control
Tights that include a control top designed to flatten the stomach area, offering a smoother silhouette under clothing.
U – Ultra-Sheer
Tights with a very low denier, typically between 7 and 10, providing a barely-there look that subtly enhances the appearance of the legs.
V – Velvet Tights
Tights made with a velvety finish, offering a luxurious texture that’s perfect for dressing up during the colder months.
W – Wool Tights
Tights made from wool or a wool blend, offering warmth and comfort during the winter months. Wool tights are thicker and often more opaque, making them ideal for chilly weather.
X – X-Static
A brand of antimicrobial and anti-odor technology that can be woven into tights, providing freshness and reducing bacteria buildup.
Y – Yarn-Dyed
A process where the yarn is dyed before being knitted into tights, resulting in rich, long-lasting color.
Z – Zippered Tights
Tights featuring zippers as part of their design, often used as a decorative element or for a bold, edgy look.
Final Thoughts
Understanding the terminology associated with tights can help you make informed decisions when shopping for hosiery. Whether you’re looking for something sheer and delicate or durable and warm, this A-Z glossary equips you with the knowledge to find the perfect pair of tights for any occasion.
