The Colorful Tights Trend Is Here to Revive Your Winter Wardrobe

Channel your inner Blair Waldorf.

Whether you’ve fully embraced Rory Gilmore’s preppy fall wardrobe or you lean more towards a ‘90s grunge aesthetic, the beloved black tights have always been a timeless closet staple for every style. The sheer nylons, which are a go-to for an extra layer of warmth or an additional fashion statement, have been such a constant in many of our lives that they’re easy to overlook. But now, classic tights are finally getting a long-awaited and particularly colorful revamp.

Instead of reaching for the same black tights that have endured so much loving wear that they’re ripping at the seams, TikTok’s trendiest fashion influencers are swapping the closet staple for brightly-colored tights in every shade imaginable. Don’t worry, black tights still remain a wardrobe essential, but these colorful trendy alternatives are sparking some serious outfit inspiration and bringing some much-needed vibrancy to our neutrals-filled Instagram feeds.

The Trend

Colorful tights are far from a new phenomenon (we’re looking at you, Ugly Betty), but the past few seasons in particular have spotlighted a sprinkling of candy-colored tights from major designers. Versace sent sheer, cool-toned pink and blue tights down its Fall 2023, runway while Miu Miu catapulted to viral internet fame with its Fall 2023 bedazzled hot pants and accompanying sheer tights in a rainbow of colors. Bright red tights were also a favorite among designers as the cherry-colored tights popped up in the Spring 2024 collections of Proenza Schouler, Acne Studio and Ferragamo.

And who could forget the absolute grip Valentino’s Pink PP collection had on celebrities in 2022? Everyone from Jenna Ortega to Zendaya to Selena Gomez rocked the vibrant, opaque pink tights, which only added to the bubbling excitement of the Barbiecore trend.

We’re still seeing celebrities tap into the colorful tights trend, this time in a more sheer finish, including Kylie Jenner, who recently wore bright blue tights in a promotional snap for her new fashion brand Khy, and Dua Lipa, who casually posed in sheer blue tights while also sporting the slightly chilly underwear-as-outerwear trend.

How to Wear It

Adding an extra pop of color into your ‘fits might feel slightly intimidating, especially if you prefer a sleek all-black wardrobe, but there are plenty of ways to incorporate the trend into your own personal style.

Go for an entirely monochromatic look: We’re talking head-to-toe red (or your color of choice) with matching tights that perfectly meld your whole outfit together. It’s a callback to the pre-Barbie Valentino pink sensation, and it’s incredibly versatile to fit your style. More into dresses and frills? Match your favorite brightly colored, flowing dress to an equally vibrant pair of tights (with heels that blend right in, of course). Or if you lean towards the structured look, grab your best colorful blazer and skirt combo to go with matching nylons for the ultimate monochromatic power pose.

If too much color isn’t really your style, dip your toe into the trend by breaking up a classic all-black outfit with a pop of unexpected color. Sneak a pair of bright green tights under a long black dress for a surprise glimpse of color or mix a rugged leather jacket with some playful blue tights for a charming twist.

And finally, for the bold and the unapologetically bright, this is the perfect outlet for forging a color-blocking creation. Embrace a complementary color palette with an orange outfit and blue tights, or go for a hue’s close friend on the color wheel by mixing red and fuschia or cool-toned blues and purples. Layering is your best friend when it comes to styling these tights, so don’t shy away from pieces that’ll really make your tights pop. Basically, if your completed outfit looks like it could be worn by Harper from Wizards of Waverly Place, you’re doing something right.

Now that winter weather has turned the streets cold and gray, we’re looking to colorful tights to bring back some excitement (and some warmth) to our wardrobes. Whether you’re into timeless silhouettes or bold statements, add a little extra color to your tights this winter—we promise they won’t bite.

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