Although the styles may change with the times, there's one garment that has remained a closet staple for centuries: tights. And of course, when you're baring your legs and it's a bit cold, they're essential. It's also important to own the best tights for dresses if you work in a conservative office or want to wear your favorite summer outfits during fall and winter.
When archaeologists discovered the first pair of stockings worn by a wealthy noblewoman in a 2,000-year-old tomb, they were designed with a fitted heel and sturdy drawcord to keep them from slipping down. Fast forward to 2018, and we’re still trying to find tights that stay up without constantly having to adjust them. Lucky for us, there are plenty out there that manage to do the job — and even luckier, they're just a click away.
Whether you're looking for fleece-lined tights to wear during winter, sheer nude tights to match your skin tone, or a sexy lace or fishnet design to pair with your best minis, there's a durable, comfortable option below. We've vetted thousands of Amazon reviews to ensure they won't run or tear, and these six pairs are the best of the bunch.
1A Highly-Rated Pair Of Opaque Tights That Comes In A Pack Of 2
Manzi Women’s Opaque Control Top Tights (XS-XL), $11-$15 (Pack Of 2), Amazon
Perfect for someone who's looking for a basic option for everyday wear, these opaque tights have hundreds of glowing reviews and a near five-star rating. The soft texture gives legs a second-skin feel while the 70 denier count provides coverage that’s truly opaque. They have a sturdy elastic that stays up without cutting into the waistline, so you won't have any lines etched in your stomach once you take them off. Since they're made of a high-quality polyamide-elastane blend, it's unlikely they'll snag or run. Even better, each order comes in a pack of two, and you can choose from five colors: black, navy, red, nude, and coffee.
2A Quality Pair Of Sheer Tights That Come In A 'Nude' Shade For Every Skin Tone
Wolford Women’s Satin Touch 20 Denier Tights (XS-XXL), $29-$53, Amazon
These tights come in 13 assorted shades of black and nude (and navy, for good measure) to suit a wide variety of skin tones, so they're already a winner in our book. Since a touch of sheen is a great way to show off your legs, these sheer, satin tights are a wonderful option for those looking to highlight their best feature. Designed with a soft, knitted waistband that stays firmly in place and prevents the fabric from digging into the skin, the sheerness (and barely visible toe shadow reinforcement) makes them perfect for wearing with open-toed shoes or sandals. Made by world-famous textile brand Wolford (who have been churning out the best-quality tights on the market since 1950) this is a pair that'll last you years.
3A Pair Of Breathable Plus-Size Tights That Come In 10 Different Colors
Butterfly Hosiery Women’s Plus-Size Opaque Footed Tights (B-8X), $9-$16, Amazon
Ultra-soft and ultra-comfortable, these opaque tights come in an excellent range of sizes, from B-8X (they even offer a 'tall' option). They’re designed to promote maximum breathability with a two-way stretch that customizes the fit and helps retain their shape, and the waistband is soft, supportive, and non-constricting. Amazon reviewers say they're silky and well-made, and provide just enough warmth for the colder seasons. Choose from ten different bright and neutral colors.
4A 4-Pack Of Stylish Net Tights That Come In Assorted Patterns
Vera Monte Women’s Hollow Out Fishnet Pantyhose Tights (One-Size), $15 (Pack Of 4), Amazon
For an incredible value, you can choose between two (argyle net and patterned net) different four-packs of assorted tights. With designs like fishnet, floral, and zig-zag, they'll take any outfit to the next level. Made of a nylon spandex blend that’s strong enough to sustain multiple washes and wears, each one will spice up any old dress. The high elasticity of the waistline includes a stretch-fit that conforms to your body and the supportive band won’t ride up or roll down. Amazon reviewers say they're pretty great quality, too — especially considering the price. The only downside is you might be a bit chilly if you wear them during the colder months.
5A Pair Of Fleece-Lined Tights For Added Warmth
Aphro Women's Opaque Warm Tights Fleece Lining Pantyhose (S-L), $13, Amazon
These black opaque tights are fleece-lined, so they're especially good for people who live in cold climates or wearing during fall and winter. Thick and cozy, they feature a high waist and are machine-washable. Reviewers say they retain their stretch well and are comfortable, but mostly rave about how warm they are. "These are the best tights I’ve ever worn," said one especially happy customer. "No tears or rips. 10/10 will buy again."
6A Pair Of Flirty Polka Dot Tights To Amp Up Any Outfit
Stocking Fox Women's 20-Denier Wave Dot Print Tight (One-Size), $15, Amazon
Though style is obviously super personal, one of the cutest patterned tights to wear with dresses are those covered in polka dots, which pretty much look good with everything. This cute pair, made of a nylon-spandex blend, is sheer, stretchy, and high-waisted. One thing to note is that they're hand-wash only, so do keep that in mind.
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