What is hosiery? Hosiery is stockings, socks, and tights. Is hosiery necessary? A lot of ladies would say no. I, however, say yes! Unless you have mile-long, perfect legs without a single scratch, hosiery really will help. Many of us have awful memories of scratchy tights and god-awful reinforced toe pantyhose. That’s not what I’d wear, either! There are many improved items and if you haven’t bought new hosiery in a while, I think you’ll be pleasantly surprised. These are the hosiery items I wear most often:

Black opaque tights:

This is a cold-weather staple! Opaque tights look good paired with almost any dress or skirt. If you have heavy thighs/calves and/or thick ankles, these will become your new best friend. The slimming effect is remarkable. I buy the control-top so everything is sucked-in. Look for the highest denier (“denier” refers to the thickness and weight of the material).

Nude hose:

A lot of ladies think these are terrible, both the look and feel. For the look, you want a sheer nude that closely matches your leg color. Don’t buy the cheap junk that comes in an egg. High quality brands feel soft, never scratchy. If you’re wearing these with open-toe shoes, buy the footless version. Some nudes are so subtle, they look invisible.

Trouser socks:

This is the hosiery item I wear most often with pants. I love Chrissy’s Knee High Socks. These are so light and comfortable, I can wear them 3 out of 4 seasons and they’re also very affordable.

Sheer black hose:

Sheer black hose is perfect for night-time events. Remember: Closed-toe shoes if you’re wearing hose, or footless hose only. This particular type of hose tends to be a man-magnet, if you’re looking, or want to look extra-special.

White cotton socks:

For exercise or lounging, these socks can’t be beat. This is what I wear at home and to bed in the winter (my feet are always freezing!) Hanes socks are super cheap and work well. Buy the value pack at Walmart. I prefer crew to ankle.

As for kitschy hosiery I would never wear (not on the street, anyway):

Old-fashioned stockings with garters – so overrated

Fishnets – look cheap

Pattern tights – not flattering

Colored tights – same as above

White tights – make legs look enormous

What kind of hosiery do you like?