Image via Atlantic-Pacific
If you paid attention to trends circa the mid-to-late 2000s, you probably remember that the fashion world went through a little obsession with colorful everything, from basic v-neck tees to skinny jeans.
However, one color trend that you may have forgotten about is colored tights.
Indeed, from pastels to neons, colorful tights were a huge trend back in the day. And whoever was daring enough to try this bold look was sure to be the center of attention!
After all, most of us probably weren’t used to seeing girls and women past elementary-school age wearing colorful tights. (Don’t forget, back then, the idea that you don’t have to be a certain age to wear certain things was still starting to gain traction.)
So, I was pretty surprised — not to mention happy — when I recently discovered that colorful tights are making a comeback.
And, since it’s been a while since we’ve focused on colorful tights in a major way here at CF (though we just did a post on outfits with tights), I’ve decided to put together three fun looks that revolve around the trend. These outfits are sure to convince you to give colorful tights a go, regardless of whether you wore them when they were “in” 10-plus years ago.
{RELATED POST: 16 Ways to Wear Black Tights}
Ready to get inspired? Just keep scrolling to learn how to wear colored tights right now!
Table of Contents
How to Wear Colored Tights
How to Wear Colored Tights: Outfit #1
Products:
- Sweater – Filly flair
- Hiking Boots – Zara
- Earrings – Amazon (similar)
- Ring – Amazon (similar)
- Bag – Ventutto (similar)
- Skirt – Amazon (similar)
- Socks – Francesca’s
- Tights – Love Classic
This retro-inspired colored tights outfit is perfect for anyone curious about how to wear colored tights and is a little apprehensive about going for anything too bright or bold.
To get the look, start by putting on a cozy sweater with a fun scalloped hem detail. After that, add a denim mini with pretty bejeweled buttons.
These reddish-plum-colored tights are the perfect, almost-neutral color to make this otherwise-simple outfit stand out just the right amount. Furthermore, if you want to make the look even more casual (or if it’s just frigid outside!), layer on a pair of gray cable-knit socks.
Speaking of warm, you really can’t go wrong with these super-trendy hiking boots, which, with their chic faux-fur trim, lend an adventurous vibe to any look.
Keep things simple jewelry-wise by donning a dainty pair of drop heart earrings and a pavé crescent-moon ring.
Finally, grab a cool printed mini cross-body bag to complete the ensemble.
How to Wear Colored Tights: Outfit #2
Products:
- Dress – Zara
- Hair Clip – Zara
- Tights – We Love Colors
- Bag – Mango
- Earrings – Shopbop
- Ring – Revolve
- Combat Boots – Zara
For the second look, I decided to go for something edgier and bolder that can be worn either during the day or at night.
Note that, due to the tights’ bright fuchsia hue, I think it’s best to keep the rest of the look neutral, which is a good rule of thumb for wearing colorful tights in general. However, if you’re feeling adventurous, you could definitely try adding more color as well! Really, as long as the look is cohesive, you’re good!
To copy this outfit for yourself, throw on a black, pearl-embellished knit dress.
Then, add the aforementioned fuchsia tights for a bold pop of color. (This particular pair of tights are from a retailer called We Love Colors. I don’t have any experience buying or wearing anything from them. So, I can’t speak for things like quality, comfort, etc. But I did discover that they have a huge selection of reasonably priced tights in all sorts of colors. They also carry both straight and sizes. Therefore, I’d definitely recommend checking them out!)
A leather bow hair clip adds a tough and feminine touch. Furthermore, a pair of small faux-diamond studs and a quirky, sparkly ring add just the right amount of visual interest.
Versatile black combat boots are the perfect edgy footwear choice to prevent this outfit from looking too prim.
Lastly, a chain strap offers an elegant upgrade to a timeless bucket bag silhouette and helps you finish the look in style.
How to Wear Colorful Tights: Outfit #3
Products:
- Blouse – L’agence
- Heels – Naturalizer (Zappos)
- Beret – Amazon
- Earrings – At Present (similar)
- Skirt – H&M
- Tights – Natori
- Jacket – Macy’s (similar)
- Sunglasses – Zero UV
- Bag – Ileatherhandbag (similar)
For Outfit #3, I decided to take some inspiration from the queen of colorful tights herself (not to mention one of my style idols!), Blair Eadie of Atlantic-Pacific. In fact, this look contains two pieces — the blouse and the tights — from Blair’s adorable Halogen x Atlantic-Pacific collaboration!
Although this soft and ladylike ensemble might look hard to put together, it’s actually quite simple to do. Blair can teach you how to wear colored tights — just get inspired by any of her outfits, as we did here.
First, tuck a cute pale pink lace blouse into a white mini-skirt.
Next, don a pair of icy-blue tights — a necessity for anyone who’s after a soft and girly aesthetic.
Accessorize with a preppy beret, as well as these fun and super-sparkly hoop earrings.
A luxurious faux-fur jacket keeps you warm and allows you to show off your sense of style. (Quite the rare feat, if you ask me!)
Furthermore, the dusty rose shade of this faux-patent mini bag provides some subtle contrast to the rest of the ensemble.
These muted gold pumps add some height, while their sturdy block heel ensures that you won’t topple over in them the moment you put them on.
To complete the outfit, put on a pair of classy oversized sunglasses that Blair would definitely love!
6 Tips to Wear Colored Tights the Fashionable Way
- Choose the right color: When it comes to colorful tights, it’s important to choose the right color that compliments your outfit. If you’re wearing a bright, bold outfit, it’s best to stick to neutral or darker tights. If your outfit is more understated, you can experiment with brighter colors.
- Consider the occasion: Colorful tights can work for a variety of occasions, from casual outings to more formal events. However, it’s important to consider the occasion before you put together your outfit. For example, if you’re going to a business meeting, it’s best to stick to more muted colors.
- Pair with a simple outfit: When wearing colorful tights, it’s best to keep the rest of your outfit simple. This way, your tights can be the focal point of your look. Consider pairing your tights with a basic dress or skirt and a neutral top.
- Experiment with patterns: If you feel bold, you can experiment with patterned tights. Polka dots, stripes, and floral patterns can add fun to your outfit. Just be sure to keep the rest of your outfit simple to avoid looking too busy.
- Consider your footwear: The right pair of shoes can make or break your colorful tights outfit. For a classic look, pair your tights with black pumps or ankle boots. If you’re feeling more playful, consider pairing your tights with colorful shoes to match.
- Accessorize with care: When wearing colorful tights, it’s best to keep your accessories to a minimum. Choose simple jewelry and a neutral bag to avoid overwhelming your outfit.
Overall, the key to fashionably wearing colorful tights is to keep your outfit simple and let your tights be the star of the show. With these tips in mind, you’ll be sure to turn heads with your colorful tights outfit.
What do you think of the colorful tights trend?
Did you wear colorful tights when they first became trendy in the mid-to-late 2000s? Do you plan to wear them (again) now? When it comes to colorful tights, do you prefer darker/more muted colors, neons, or pastels?
Let me know in the comments!
If you like these vibrant tights, you may want to take a peek at the related posts below – they could be just what you need! –