Are Colored Tights a Realistic Outfit?
Are Colored Tights a Realistic Outfit?
Surprisingly, yes
Colored tights have been styled multiple ways in the SS 2023 Tibi campaign, and I’ve seen some amazing styling during the SS24 runway shows, as well as among the fashion show guests. However, imagining them for myself has been a bit difficult, not less so because my toddler loves them so much. It felt like something too creative to be incorporated into my not-so-fashion-forward, daily WFH life. So, as usual, I decided to experiment.
I bought two pairs of colored tights (now here is a trend that is inexpensive to try!) in burgundy and bright blue. Burgundy just caught my eye, and the blue ones I have seen at Fashion Week on a Tibi show guest and just completely loved them.
Burgundy: Sophistication for Everyone
I first started with a rather neutral outfit and added the tights and the patent yellow Cameron sandals from Tibi. I just love the color play here. The sandals add such an unexpected twist, and if there was suitable weather and occasion, I would definitely wear this outfit going somewhere.
Next, I used this old Cos mini dress with silver Rudolph shoes from Tibi. Again, the burgundy tights add such great interest to an otherwise simple outfit. The shoes also contrast and highlight the colors really well.
Then, I went for the mint/burgundy combination, which is inspired by SS24 runways. This mint dress from Cos felt a bit basic, so I added a sweater on top a la Tibi. The shoes are blending a bit with the tights, but since they have white stitching, it still highlights the contrast a little bit. Love this outfit as well.
Encouraged by these successes, I decided to go one step further - using the tights above the pants. I was sure it would not work, but it actually kind of works? The pants need to be somewhat “big”, relaxed, and lower slung, and the tights actually act as a bit of shapewear, creating even a somewhat “flattering” look.
Blue: Advanced Users Only
I first saw blue tights on a Tibi runway show guest, and then in the above The Attico look. It looks just stunning and somewhat easy enough (so I thought). So I went for “something similar”.
It did not really work - no wonder that the Attico's stunning textured piece will not be the same as my even though sculptural, but still a rain jacket.
I tried pairing it with navy/black, but it did not bring the good monochrome look I expected.
I attempted styling with long dresses, midi dresses, and various other outfits, but none seemed to hit the mark. The blue tights would ideally pair with a sand-colored piece, but I lacked any mini dresses in that shade. So the blue tights were much more challenging than I initially thought!
I once again tried a look with pants where the tights peek from the top. The result was better than I anticipated, adding an unexpected, bold, belt-like touch to the otherwise classic outfit. I am still not sure if I would wear it somewhere, but it definitely has potential!
Conclusions on Colored Tights
So what do we make of this colored tight experiment?
Ring 3 colors - particularly rich ones like burgundy - can add a new dimension to an outfit and are incredibly easy to style.
Statement tights work well when paired with mini skirts or other items that offer ample exposure, except for the peek-over-pants style. I tried them with into midi looks, but found them more challenging.
A contrasting shoe can really make an outfit. A shoe with a contrasting pattern or color can make an outfit truly special.
Brights, such as the saturated blue, were more difficult to style and it was easy to veer into the toddler territory. I still do not know if I will wear them, while the burgundy seems to just go with everything.
What's your perspective? Are you sporting colored tights or considering them? Share your views in the comments!
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