Tights under a dress in winter
Short answer: Tights in bamboo viscose do not scratch the way synthetic tights can, and they do not build up static in dry indoor air. On the coldest days they can be combined with leggings under your dress.
Itching and scratching
Cheap synthetic tights can make the skin itch, especially in winter when it is already dry. A softer material feels different against your legs all day. If you often want to scratch your shins, the material may be worth a look. See bamboo tights for women.
Static
Synthetic tights can make a dress cling to your legs in dry indoor air. The dress creeps up and sticks, and you spend the day pulling it down. Materials that hold a little moisture build up less charge. Read more about antistatic clothes.
Warmth
Tights alone give limited warmth, because the fabric is thin. On really cold days many people therefore wear leggings over their tights or instead of them. Two thin layers hold warmth better than one thick layer. See bamboo leggings for women.
The waistband
A wide, soft waistband sits best all day. A narrow one can dig in and roll down, especially when you sit a lot. Check the waistband when you try the tights on, and sit down for a moment to feel how it sits in the position you spend most time in.
Under the dress
A smooth layer between dress and tights stops the clinging and lets the dress hang nicely. A slip also adds a little warmth and makes thin dresses less see-through. Choose one shorter than the dress so it stays hidden. See bamboo slip.
The dress
Most dresses can be worn in winter with tights underneath. Longer dresses in thicker fabric give more warmth than short summer dresses, but a short dress also works with tights, boots and a warm knit. See the range of bamboo dresses.
Choosing a colour
Black tights are the easiest to combine, because they go with almost every dress and pair of shoes. Skin toned tights show less and give a lighter look. Navy and grey are good alternatives if you want some variety without thinking too much about the outfit.
Washing
Wash tights in a laundry bag at 40 degrees so they do not catch on zips and hooks from other clothes. Avoid the tumble dryer, because the heat wears out the elastane. Hang them over a rail to dry. Read more in the washing guide.
How many pairs you need
Tights wear out faster than most other clothes. If you wear them daily in winter, several pairs make sense, so you can change every day and wash them together. Warm socks are a good addition for days in trousers. See bamboo socks for women.
When to replace them
When the waistband has gone slack, or the fabric has worn thin at the heel and between the thighs, it is time for a new pair. Tights that slide down are not pleasant to wear all day. Read how to tell that clothes are worn out.
Frequently asked questions
Why does my dress cling to my tights?
It is caused by static, which builds up in dry indoor air, especially with synthetic materials. A smooth layer such as a slip between dress and tights stops most of the clinging.
Are tights warm enough in winter?
On their own they give limited warmth. On cold days you can wear leggings over them or instead, because two thin layers hold warmth better than one thick layer.
How do I wash tights?
Wash them in a laundry bag at 40 degrees and hang them to dry. Avoid the tumble dryer, because the heat wears out the elastane and makes the waistband slack sooner.
See our range of decoy tights.
