Go Beyond Basic Black: Exactly How to Wear the Best Tights Trends of the Season

From colored ribbed knits at Tommy Hilfiger to graphic, oversized fishnets at Proenza Schouler, the fall runways were overflowing with tights in every color and style. Which, might we add, is always a welcome notion, considering how cold the winter winds can be. An accessory that offers function and style? Sign us up. This year, though, it goes miles further than basic black (though we do love a classic!). With so many styles on the shelves, though, how’s a girl to choose which tights go with which skirts and shoes?

We’ve rounded up our favorite tights of the season—from opaque oxblood to studded sheer, and everything in between. Scroll through and see how we’re wearing this year’s hottest trends in tights.

Oxblood:

Floral Matrix dress, $375, rebeccataylor.com; Solid color tights, $13, welovecolors.com; Christian Louboutin Masterboot Chelsea boots, $975, barneys.com

As colored tights go, try one of the biggest trends of the season and go for a pair in oxblood. Balance the whimsical aspect of a colored leg with a classic shoe, like flat Chelsea boots. Though this hosiery trend pairs awesomely with an LBD, don’t be afraid of a microprint, as long as the hues are all similar to one another.

Ribbed Knit:

Victoria, Victoria Beckham Teddy wool-blend bouclé mini, $495, net-a-porter.com; Fine merino rib tights, $107, wolfordshop.com; Callie soft calf boots, $495, clubmonaco.com

This cozy winter style is like a sweater for your legs. Often woven in merino wool or thick cotton, the added texture is an immediate outfit updater. On cold days, style your ribbed tights with knee-high boots and a bright mini. Keep your apparel solid with this one, but don’t be afraid of added texture in wool, suede, or tweed.

Oversize Fishnets:

Flutter skirt, $48, bananarepublic.com; Tights, $250, proenzaschouler.com; Proenza Schouler gray felt sandals, $770, forzieri.com

For the fashion risk-takers among you, try this season’s take on the classic fishnet tights. Larger in scale and more graphic in style, they are definitely eye-catchers. While we give you full permission to go crazy and pair them with equally whimsical shoes, try to keep your clothing neutral and more understated.

Heather Grey:

Super high-waisted checked skirt, $60, topshop.com; Flat knit sweater tights, $20, hue.com; Church’s The Burwood glossed-leather brogues, $570, net-a-porter.com

If you’re looking for something a little more interesting than basic black, but just as classic in style, reach for a pair of opaque heather grey tights. Take advantage of their schoolgirl vibe and pair them with a plaid skirt and oxford flats this fall.

Studded Sheer:

Carven crepe miniskirt, $590, net-a-porter.com; Wolford Daria tights, $58, wolfordshop.com; Amelia high heels, $295, loefflerrandall.com

If you want your party look to be totally next-level awesome, try studded sheers. While the sheer trend is always a sexy after-hours option, the studs add the extra va va voom you may be craving. Be it a bright color or dark neutral, this trend tends to work better with solids, rather than prints.

Opaque Black:

Pleated silk shirtdress, $450, toryburch.com; Ultimate opaque matte tights, $34, wearcommando.com; Hyde booties, $450, toryburch.com

Of course, there’s always our tried-and-true best friend, black. A deep, opaque pair is warm, flattering on every body type, and goes with anything in your closet. No matter what new trends you try out this season (and we highly suggest you do!), make sure to have a few pairs of this trusty style on hand!

For more fall accessory ideas:

5 Easy Ways to Tie a Scarf this Fall

7 Super-Stylish Ways to Wear Your Knee-High Boots for Work and Weekend

Statement Earrings Are Back! (And They’re the Easiest Way to Dress Up Any Outfit)