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Tights are a staple in many wardrobes, whether for fashion, comfort, or warmth. In the UK, they are especially popular during colder months and are often styled with skirts, dresses, or even shorts. But with so many brands available, which ones stand out as the best?
The most popular tights brands in the UK include Wolford, Falke, Heist, Calzedonia, and M&S, known for their high-quality materials, durability, and stylish designs. These brands offer a mix of everyday wear, fashion-forward styles, and premium options for special occasions.
Let’s explore the best tights brands1, the terminology used for tights in the UK, their history, and current fashion trends.
What are the best brands of tights?
When it comes to tights, quality matters. So which brands offer the best options in the UK?
Wolford, Falke, Heist, and M&S2 are among the best brands for tights in the UK, offering high-quality, long-lasting, and stylish options. Whether you need everyday sheer tights, warm winter tights, or trendy patterned options, these brands have something for everyone.
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Comparing the Best UK Tights Brands3
Each brand has its own strengths, from premium luxury tights to affordable everyday wear.
Best Tights Brands in the UK:
| Brand | Price Range | Best For | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wolford | High-end | Luxury, durability | Ultra-soft material, long-lasting |
| Falke | Mid to high | Classic, high-quality basics | Elegant, reinforced structure |
| Heist | Mid to high | Seamless, comfortable wear | No rolling waistband, stretchy fit |
| Calzedonia | Mid-range | Trendy, stylish designs | Fashion-forward patterns & textures |
| M&S | Budget to mid | Affordable everyday wear | Reliable, great value for money |
For luxury and durability, Wolford and Falke are top choices, while M&S and Calzedonia are great for affordability and trendy styles.
What are tights called in the UK?
Are tights and leggings the same thing in the UK, or is there a difference in terminology?
In the UK, tights refer to sheer or opaque hosiery worn on the legs, while leggings are thicker, footless garments. In the US, the term "pantyhose" is sometimes used instead of tights, but in the UK, "tights" covers all variations.
Understanding UK Fashion Terminology
British fashion terms can be different from those used in other countries, especially when it comes to legwear.
Tights vs. Leggings vs. Stockings:
| UK Term | US Equivalent | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Tights | Pantyhose/Tights | Sheer or opaque, covers the entire leg |
| Leggings | Leggings | Footless, thicker, often worn casually |
| Stockings | Stockings | Individual leg pieces, held up with garters |
Knowing these differences helps avoid confusion when shopping for legwear online.
When did tights become popular in the UK?
Tights are now a wardrobe essential, but when did they actually become mainstream?
Tights became widely popular in the UK in the 1960s, thanks to the rise of mini skirts and the influence of fashion icons like Twiggy. Before that, women typically wore stockings with garters.
The Evolution of Tights in British Fashion
Tights revolutionized women’s fashion by providing comfort, convenience, and versatility.
Key Moments in Tights History:
| Decade | Influence |
|---|---|
| 1920s-30s | Stockings and suspenders were standard |
| 1960s | Mini skirts made tights a necessity |
| 1980s | Colored and patterned tights became trendy |
| 2000s-Present | Sheer, opaque, and fashion tights remain popular |
Today, tights are a staple in British fashion4, worn for both practicality and style.
Are ASOS tights good?
ASOS is a go-to fashion retailer, but are their tights worth buying?
ASOS tights5 are generally good for trendy and affordable options, but they may not be as durable as premium brands like Wolford or Falke. They offer a wide variety of colors, patterns, and styles, making them a great budget-friendly choice.
ASOS Tights – Worth It or Not?
ASOS offers affordable, stylish tights, but the quality can vary depending on the style and material.
Pros & Cons of ASOS Tights:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Affordable and trendy options | Less durable than high-end brands |
| Wide variety of styles | Some styles prone to tearing |
| Good for fashion statements | May stretch out over time |
If you're looking for fashion-forward tights at a good price, ASOS is a great option, but if you want long-lasting durability, premium brands are better.
What type of tights are in style in 2024?
Fashion trends change every year, so what’s trending in tights for 20246?
In 2024, sheer, patterned, and bold-colored tights are making a comeback. Classic black tights remain a staple, but statement-making styles like fishnets, lace tights, and vibrant colors are trending.
Tights Trends for 2024
Fashion tights are taking center stage, adding texture and boldness to outfits.
Trending Tights Styles in 2024:
| Style | Description |
|---|---|
| Sheer Tights | Subtle, elegant, and lightweight |
| Patterned Tights | Lace, polka dots, and geometric designs |
| Bold Colors | Red, blue, and other vibrant shades |
| Fishnet & Mesh | Edgy, statement-making looks |
Pairing bold tights with neutral outfits is a great way to stay on trend in 2024.
Conclusion
The best tights brands in the UK include Wolford, Falke, Heist, Calzedonia, and M&S, offering a mix of luxury, durability, and affordability. Tights became a fashion staple in the 1960s and remain essential today. While ASOS tights are great for fashion-forward looks, they may lack the durability of premium brands. In 2024, sheer, patterned, and bold-colored tights are leading the trends, making legwear an exciting statement piece in modern fashion.
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Lists top UK tights brands for durability and fashion. ↩
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These brands are known for their premium and stylish tights. ↩
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Tights became widely popular in the 1960s with mini skirts. ↩
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Explains the difference between tights, leggings, and stockings in the UK. ↩
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ASOS tights are affordable and trendy but not as durable as premium brands. ↩
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Sheer, patterned, and bold-colored tights are trending. ↩
