I’ve always had a real penchant for skirts and dresses, and I refuse to let them gather dust just because the temperatures take a dip.
The trade-off, of course, is that my tights collection works overtime from October through March. For years, I defaulted to black, rotating through various opacities without giving it much thought. Dependable? Absolutely. But inspiring? Not so much. This season, however, my winter wardrobe is in for a treat, as I've discovered a subtle but impactful upgrade that’s made my trusty black pairs feel almost redundant. The chic alternative? Grey tights.
Not a dramatic departure from black, but certainly more interesting, grey tights are becoming the new-season neutral I’m reaching for the most. In thick, woollen styles, they call back to the pairs we wore at school, bringing a nostalgic, preppy energy that sharpens a look. But what I love most is how versatile they are with colour.
Just look at Maya Hawke’s pink jacket and grey tights pairing, pictured above. The tights ground the pastel hue beautifully, anchoring it without dulling its sweetness. Add in her burgundy bag, and you’ve got a three-tone colour story that's impossibly chic.
In sheerer finishes, grey tights take on a different personality altogether—polished, expensive-looking, and adding dimension to outfits in ways black tights simply can’t. Picture them with knee-high boots and a mini, or layered under buttery leather separates for a chic, considered finish.
Below, I’ve rounded up the very best pairs to shop now. Read on to discover my edit.
Shop Grey Tights:
This two-pack includes tights in two shades of grey.
Style with a tonal grey skirt for a low-effort, high-impact look.
These also come in nine other shades.
In my opinion, Swedish Stockings makes some of the best tights on the market.
The thick cotton composition ensures a warm and comfortable fit.
These come in five different sizes, so you can find your perfect fit.
These are such a chic alternative to traditional black tights.
These come in high and mid-waist fits, so you can opt for your preference.
Style these with knee-high boots and miniskirts all winter long.
For me, thermal tights are a non-negotiable from November to March.
-
If You Only Have $200, TheseReplica Store Shoes, Handbags, and Accessories Will Get You Endless ComplimentsEverything included is on sale, too.
-
All the Cool Fashion People in NYC, Paris, and L.A. Will Be Wearing These 44 Accessories This FallThe perfect finishing touch to your favorite outfit.
-
It Girls on Both Coasts Wear This Anti-Trend Item When Looking Cool Is the GoalHailey Bieber was just spotted in it again.
-
Jennifer Lawrence Is on to Something—This Under-$50 Accessory Trend Will Be Your Smartest Winter 2025 PurchaseCold weather is coming.
-
Is This Primary Color Trend the New Red? Kaia Gerber Thinks SoPrepare to see it everywhere this fall.
-
28 Accessories That'll Make Every Fall Outfit Look ElegantThese are the add-ons you need.
-
Every Dress and Skirt Will Look Cooler With This Anti-Boring Fall Accessory TrendThese will be everywhere.
-
If You Live in NYC, You *Should* Know That the Chicest Way to Wear a Miniskirt and Tights in Fall Is With This Elegant Shoe Color TrendIt's not black pumps or white sneakers.
