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How to Style and Wear Stockings

You know what you don’t see often? Stockings anymore, and it’s a bummer because it’s SUCH an excellent accessory to have in the colder months and can look SO CHIC. I feel like we look at stockings as an older, outdated thing in our grandma’s closet- but I am here to make it look chic, attainable, and a part of your closet. Let’s dive in on how to style and wear stockings …

Nowadays, there are many fun and different stockings, from shimmer to rhinestones to fishnet ones! Now, do you need all of them? No, but a good basic black one is great to have! If you live somewhere really cold, these fleece-lined ones from Amazon are GREAT to have. Just be careful because some of the ones on Amazon have a yellow undertone that doesn’t look the best.

As I mentioned above, there is a wide variety of stockings available, so before breaking down different stocking outfit ideas, I want to talk about the different types of stockings you will see at stores!

  1. Sheer Stockings: These stockings are lightweight, translucent material, providing a subtle and elegant look. They are great for adding a touch of sophistication to your outfit.
  2. Opaque Stockings: Opaque stockings are thicker and less transparent than sheer ones. They provide more coverage and are perfect for cooler weather or when you want a more substantial look.
  3. Patterned Stockings: Add a dash of flair to your ensemble with stockings featuring various patterns such as polka dots, stripes, or floral designs. These are an excellent choice for those looking to make a fashion statement.
  4. Fishnet Stockings: Known for their open, diamond-shaped pattern, fishnet stockings are a bold and edgy choice. They can add a touch of rebellion to your outfit, especially when paired with leather or denim. If you want to add a little *spice* I think a fun fishnet or even something with a little pattern is also nice to have, but again, it’s not needed.
  5. Seamed Stockings: Seamed stockings have a visible seam running down the back, creating a classic, vintage-inspired look. They are often associated with old Hollywood glamour and are some of my favorites!
  6. Thigh-High Stockings: Thigh-high stockings extend up to the thigh without needing a garter belt. They can be a sexy and practical option, often featuring a silicone band at the top to prevent slipping. So if you don’t want them to wear like pants would and be restricted, these might be for you!
  7. Colored Stockings: If you want to add a pop of color to your outfit, consider colored stockings. They come in various hues and can be a playful and eye-catching addition to your look.
  8. Matte Stockings: Matte stockings have a non-shiny finish, providing a more subtle and muted appearance than the glossy finish of some other types. They can be an excellent option for a sophisticated look.

Remember to choose the type of stockings that align with your outfit and the occasion, allowing you to express your personal style in various ways!

with a dress

left outfit: dress (similar) / stockings / shoes / jacket / belt
right outfit: dress / blazer (similar)/ stockings / shoes

left outfit: dress / stockings / shoes (similar)
right outfit: dress / blazer / stockings / boots

No matter the dress, whether it’s fancy, or a casual sweater dress, wearing your stocking with dresses can look so chic! Because I have only black stockings, I tend to wear black shoes to keep the look uniform and elongate the legs on my petite frame.

Of course, you don’t have to wear black shoes, but that’s my preference.

P.S. Blaire does stocking outfits like NO ONE else if you want inspo!

with a skirt

left outfit: skirt / stockings / shoes / top / headband
right outfit: skirt / stockings / shoes / jacket / top / hat

left outfit: jacket / top / skirt / boots / purse (similar) / stockings
right outfit: top / skirt / flats / jacket / stockings

If you don’t love wearing dresses, skirts are great for pairing with your stockings. The skirt can be any length or style! It’s a great way to keep those legs warm during the cooler months and still look chic! Clearly, I like black in the winter months, haha!

more ideas

left outfit: shorts / tights / shoes / blazer / top
right outfit: pants / top / shoes / tights

The idea of wearing stocking underpants may seem a little weird, but I promise it looks SO good, especially if you’re wearing cropped denim with sandals or low-profile shoes. Next time try wearing black denim with your black stockings and black shoes. And that will create an elongated look on your legs, keeping everything the same color! Take a look at this outfit for example

WHERE TO SHOP STOCKINGS:

Lastly, below are a few you can shop from. Sheertex will be my top and favorite brand to shop for. They really are rip-resistant! If you can find them on sale, too, you can get them for under $45! Whatever you do, DO NOT, and I repeat, DO NOT buy the Gucci tights. They ripped the first time wearing around the crotch because they wouldn’t stay up, and with me moving in and out of the car- they tore. I wish I had done better research on them. Instead, sheertex has some good options, and so does Commando!

I hope you enjoyed today’s How to Style and Wear Stockings blog post! Which outfit is your favorite? Let me know down below!

Thanks so much for stopping by, have a great day! ❤️

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Kathy Louis Brown

Thank you so much for this article. I’ve always loved wearing tights, but they have not been very popular recently. All my friends go for the bare leg look even in cold Ohio winters. I like how you featured them with dresses — great looks. I also bought a couple of pairs of the Sheertex and love them. Thanks again!