Features

Styles - The Mighty Tight

If you haven’t noticed, it is cold outside. This is a month where the high temperatures rival the low temperatures in the months of spring. Everyone walks around with massive parkas, scarves covering the entire face, and thick heavy boots. We all might as well be Ralphie’s bother from A Christmas Story. All our cute clothes (and shoes!) fall to the wayside, and most of us would prefer not to leave the house as opposed to be seen in our long johns. The question that begs to be asked is how does one look fresh and cute in 18 layers of wool? Believe me when I say it can be done.
            There are two essential pieces of hosiery that play a major role in keeping warm during these long winter months. Those are knee highs and tights. Notice I didn’t say panty hose. These aren’t your mother’s accessories. It took me a while to realize the benefits of wearing knee highs with my flats, or even my heels. The great thing is that there are so many stores selling both patterned knee highs and tights that you won’t look like a little old lady on her way to market when you wear them. I myself have several beige pairs I am able to wear with any look, any shoe. They have a great diamond weave to them that give my feet interest without deterring from the rest of my look. More importantly they shield the top of my foot from the harsh wind and cold.
            Tights are quickly becoming my favorite thing, possibly ever. This fall I had a desk job so I got to wear my skirts and high heel shoes that were detrimental to wear during retail work. As the weather turned cold, I noticed not only my co-workers, but celebrities (like the lovely Sarah Jessica Parker) were turning to the patterned tight. The things they can do with nylon these days is quite amazing, and go past your run-of-the-mill fishnet, which tend to be a little too Kelly Bundy or “Pretty Woman” for some. Just like my knee highs, I love a good diamond design but they are also available in argyle, lace, pinstripes and much, much more. Be bold and rock a gray or black wool dress with brightly hued opaque tights and your favorite boots. Take it a step further and wear your sexiest black peep-toe shoes. Peep-toe only though, let’s not revive the 80s and wear strappy sandals with panty hose. If rocking a colored peep, opt for black tights for a sleek look. While white tights bring a fresh “mod’ feel to your wardrobe when balanced with orange or fuchsia sheath dresses left over from summer.
             Winter-time blues get everyone down, and dressing like an explorer to Antarctica is the easiest cause. That doesn’t mean busting out shorts and tank tops is the answer, but showing a little (covered) leg is a great start.