Stockings & Tights Buyer's Guide

"Which stocking or tights style is best for me?"

Great question! Whether you're new to hosiery or a longtime fan, finding the perfect style is all about knowing what works best for your lifestyle, outfit, and comfort. At VienneMilano, we offer a range of luxurious thigh highs, tights, knee highs, and socks to suit every occasion.

Photo credit: Marcus Jason

"What should I consider when buying stockings or tights?"

You're in the right place! This guide covers everything you need to know about selecting the right hosiery for your wardrobe, from fit and material to style and occasion.

What You'll Find in This Guide:

• Types of Hosiery: Thigh highs, tights, knee highs, and socks
• How to Choose the Right Fit
• The Best Materials for Every Season
• Occasion-Based Hosiery Picks
• The Benefits of Thigh Highs vs. Tights
• How to Care for Your Hosiery
• Style Tips & Pairing Suggestions
• How to Buy Hosiery Online

Types of Hosiery: Find Your Perfect Fit

Thigh Highs: Glamorous & Functional

Thigh highs are a signature of VienneMilano, offering both elegance and practicality. These self-supporting stockings stay in place with a silicone band, making them comfortable without the need for a garter belt.

Best for:

• A polished, sophisticated look
• Special occasions & date nights
• Everyday elegance without a waistband

Tights: Full Coverage & Versatility

Tights offer all-over leg coverage and come in various levels of opacity, from sheer to opaque. They're ideal for cooler weather and work perfectly under skirts, dresses, and even shorts.

Best for:

• Extra warmth in fall and winter
• Office & professional settings
• Layering under statement outfits

Knee Highs: Subtle & Stylish

Knee-high stockings bring a refined, vintage-inspired touch to any ensemble. With a band that stays in place just below the knee, they're a great alternative to tights when you want more freedom of movement.

Best for:

• Pairing with midi skirts and dresses
• Classic, preppy styling
• Transitional weather

Socks: Everyday Comfort with a Luxe Feel

From sheer ankle socks to trendy knee-highs, socks complete any outfit with a blend of comfort and elegance. Perfect for styling with heels or loafers, they add personality to your look.

Best for:

• Casual & chic styling
• Wearing with pumps, boots, or loafers
• Everyday wear

How to Choose the Right Fit

Finding hosiery that fits perfectly is key to both comfort and style.

• Thigh Highs: Measure your thigh circumference at the widest point to ensure a secure but comfortable fit. Silicone bands should sit snugly without pinching.
• Tights: Look for sizing based on height and weight. High-quality materials provide better stretch and recovery.
• Knee Highs & Socks: Ensure the band holds without digging into the skin.

Pro Tip: If you're between sizes, opt for the larger size for a smoother fit.

The Best Materials for Every Season

Hosiery materials determine how breathable, durable, and comfortable your stockings will be.

• Sheer Nylon: Light and airy, perfect for warm-weather elegance.
• Opaque Microfiber: Soft and warm, ideal for winter months.
• Fishnet & Lace: Bold, statement-making textures that add edge to any outfit.
• Wool & Cashmere: Cozy luxury for cold days, offering warmth without bulk.

Occasion-Based Hosiery Picks

Wondering what to wear and when? Here's a quick breakdown.

Work & Business Attire

• Sheer black thigh highs for a polished look
• Opaque tights for warmth and professionalism

Date Night & Evening Wear

• Lace or patterned thigh highs for a sultry touch
• Classic sheer stockings for timeless glamour

Casual Chic

• Knee highs with a midi skirt and boots
• Sheer socks with loafers or heels

Special Events

• Fishnet stockings for a bold statement
• Sheer white or nude thigh highs for elegant occasions

Weddings: Elegant Hosiery for Brides & Guests

Whether you are walking down the aisle or celebrating as a guest, stockings and tights add a sophisticated touch to your look.

• For Brides: Sheer white or lace thigh highs offer a seamless, elegant (yet sexy) finish under your dress, while lace-topped styles add a romantic touch.
• For Guests: Opt for sheer nude or classic black stockings for a refined look that pairs beautifully with cocktail dresses and formal gowns.

Shapewear tights are also a good choice for weddings as it offers subtle smoothing where you want it and a gentle lift where you need it. For special occasions like this, a little extra support goes a long way - because when you look confident, you feel unstoppable!

The Benefits of Thigh Highs vs. Tights

Can't decide between thigh highs and tights? Here's a quick comparison:

Thigh highs offer an elegant, stay-up design without the squeeze of a waistband, while tights provide full-leg coverage for warmth and a seamless look.

How to Buy Hosiery Online

Shopping for hosiery online can be overwhelming with so many options available. Here's what to consider to ensure you make the right choice:

• Review Size Charts: Always check the brand's size chart, as sizing can vary between manufacturers.
• Choose Based on Occasion: Work, weddings, date nights—different occasions call for different styles. Look for recommendations on retailer websites.
• Inspect the Fabric: Stockings should be made from high-quality blends like nylon and spandex for durability and comfort.
• Read Reviews: Customer feedback on platforms like TrustPilot can provide valuable insights into fit and quality.
• Contact the Brand: Still not sure which retailer to shop from? Reach out to the brand directly and ask for recommendations. Small independent brands often provide helpful insights and personalized customer service.
  
• Buy Multiple Sizes If Possible: If free returns are offered, order a couple of sizes to find the perfect fit.
• Support Small Brands: Independent brands often provide unique, high-quality options while offering better customer service.
• Origins: Where Is Your Hosiery Made? Some countries are known for their high-quality hosiery production. For the best craftsmanship, look for stockings made in Italy, Austria, America, Germany, or Japan.

How to Care for Your Hosiery

Extend the life of your hosiery with these care tips:

• Hand Wash Preferred: Use a gentle detergent like Soak or Eucalan.
• Cold Water Only: Hot water can damage delicate fibers.
• Use a Wash Bag: Prevent snags and stretching in the wash.
• Lay Flat to Dry: Avoid heat from dryers to maintain elasticity.

Pro Tip: Store hosiery in a satin pouch to prevent runs and snags.

Style Tips & Pairing Suggestions

Looking to elevate your outfits? Try these styling ideas:

• Sheer black thigh highs with a little black dress for timeless elegance.
• Knee highs with a pleated skirt and loafers for a classic, preppy look.
• Fishnet stockings under ripped jeans for an edgy, street-style effect.
• Opaque tights with a wool mini skirt and oversized sweater for cozy sophistication.

Support Small Independent Brands

Feel good, do good. Shopping from small businesses means you’re investing in unique, high-quality designs while supporting independent creators.

VienneMilano is a female-owned brand dedicated to bringing you the finest Italian-made hosiery. Browse our collection today!

Find Your Perfect Pair at VienneMilano

At VienneMilano, we believe hosiery is more than just an accessory—it's a statement of confidence and style. Whether you're stepping into a boardroom, heading out for a romantic evening, or simply elevating your everyday wardrobe, our collection offers something for every occasion.

Ready to find your perfect pair? Explore our hosiery collection today!