Keep it Tight.

Sequin holiday dress selection, check.  The perfect pair of patent leather pumps, check.  Totally toasty fur coat for getting to and fro all of those Christmas soirees, check.  Um, aren’t we forgetting something?  Anyone who’s been following this column for the past few weeks is probably abundantly aware of my obsession with tights.  No, I’m not talking about nude pantyhose that your mom used to wear under a mid calf plaid skirt.  The options this fall are fresh and fun, with a massive color palate to chose from and tons of patterns and textures to cozy up with.

Since I take my dress rather seriously, keeping a considerable number of tight options in my lingerie chest is of upmost importance.  These lingering warm temperatures are not making my job any easier, but nothing irks me quite as much as seeing a lovely lady walk down the street bare legged in December.  Unless you’re hitting the red carpet anytime soon, I cannot think of one good reason to not be wearing tights on your lower half.  On a side note, the combination of denim shorts and UGG boots is ridiculous.  It looked ridiculous on Britney Spears during the summer of 2004.  And it still looks ridiculous today.  But you can wear demin shorts all year round if you select the right pair of tights (See. I knew there was a correlation between my UGG rant and tights- the denim!).

 So what gives?  Well, first and foremost, tights are practical, people.  I like to wear skirts and dresses, as I’m sure many of you do as well.  But I do not wish to have my dry pale skin exposed in the winter months, nor do I enjoy being frozen.  For this purpose, a classic black pair of opaque tights of a heavier denier is essential to any winter wardrobe.  By the way, control top black tights aren’t a bad suggestion for post Christmas dinner outings, either.  The color instantly slims you and the control top does wonders for your waistline.

Not only are tights a practical way to extend your wardrobe, but they also add a little flair to your monotone looks.  If you tend to have a problem purchasing all black, like myself, nothing makes your day quite as much as a fun pair of tights to spice things up a bit.  Since tights are so in right now, your options are basically unlimited.  Opt for a color to brighten up your look, or stick to the all black look with a patterned tight.  Not only do a pair of tights up your style game, they can also be quite attractive.  Since many of the leg-baring girls are most likely attempting to dress for a male counterpart, or are in search thereof, think again, sister.  A wisely selected pair of tights can be just the right amount of leg with a little bit of class (and I’m fairly certain that classy always wins in the end).  The tight possibilities are endless, so give them a try!  Here are my favorite tights this season:

1. Jukebox Tights in the Twist, ModCloth, $34.99.  These creamy dancing tights by Danish designer Sneaky Fox bring me back to my childhood.  Give me a pair of saddle shoes and call it a day.  How cute would these look with a little black dress and some chunky velvet heels?!?  Available at www.modcloth.com.
2. Windsor Floral Tights, Fred Flare, $15.    These sheer Nylon/Spandex blend tights are probably my favorite floral find.  Luxurious-looking at a wallet friendly price, these tights can do no wrong.  I think I’ll make a wine colored velvet dress with these in mind.  Available at www.fredflare.com.
3. Tomorrow 50 Tights, La Perla, $49.00.  This Italian luxury brand has been high up on my wish list for years.  Known for their beautifully crafted lingerie, this pair of extra soft microfiber tights would be a coveted selection in lingerie chest.  Available at www.laperla.com and high-end department stores.
4. Hansel From Basel Sweater Tight, Urban Outfitters, $36.  These are just awesome.  They’re fun and funky and will add some punch to any vintage inspired dress.  Woohoo!   Available at Urban Outfitters stores or www.urbanoutfitters.com.
5. Opaque Pantyhose, American Apparel, $14.  Long-lasting 60 denier pantyhose that come in 38 unique colors.  American Apparel is made in the USA and is all great quality.  Be sure to check out all of their basics.  Available at American Apparel stores and www.americanapparel.com.
6. Leopard Tights, Nasty Gal, $20.  I love a good animal print in my wardrobe.  Wear these bad girls with a slouchy sweater dress and some ankle booties.  Love!  Available at www.nastygal.com.
7. Color Block Stripe Tights, ASOS, $21.82.  Wide horizontal striped colorblocked tights in high denier opaque cotton.  Try these on for size with grey and black on your torso and some black ankle booties for your feet.  Available at www.asos.com.
8. Fair Isle Knit Tights, Forever 21, $8.80.  Like wearing a sweater on your most comfy sweater on your legs.  Plus you can afford more than one pair at $8.80.  Available at Forever 21 stores and www.forever21.com.
9. Bone Tights, House of Holland, $21.82.  Semi-sheer tights featuring a femur, tibia and fibula on them?  Yes, please.  These tights are designed by House of Holland for Pretty polly, bringing some punch to the tight world.  Available at www.asos.com.
10. Velvet Leggings, Simply Vera Vera Wang, $30.  Um, I know I said leggings are out but these are fab.  Pair them with a pair of flat booties and an over sized knit for a super cool comfy holiday look.  Available at Kohls stores and www.kohls.com.

 For more fashion wholesomeness, check out my store website at www.purplezebrashop.com.