9 New Cool-Girl Rules for Styling Tights That You Won't Find Boring

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As if we needed further proof that autumn is officially here, we've spotted that plenty of people have already got their tights out of hibernation. That's right—the 40-deniers are back in rotation. But don't despair. Just as rediscovering your tights is a signifier that winter is approaching, it also means you can start shopping for new knitwear, winter coats and ankle boots. Plus, there are new and interesting ways to wear your tights to keep your cold-weather outfits interesting.

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(Image credit: Style du Monde)

Thick opaques are the easy, cosy option, but there are plenty of alternatives too. Sheer styles look great with ladylike shoes. Or why not make like Carine Roitfeld and adopt a patterned pair, or try a fishnet for something different? Sometimes all it takes are the right references to break out of the rut you fell into so long ago. Consider this tight-spiration, if you will. Scroll below for our handy guide inspired by the most stylish supporters of stretchy Lycra.

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1. Embrace Patterns and Be More Like Carine
(Image credit: Style du Monde)

Style Notes: Madame Roitfeld loves patterned, lacy tights, so much so that her second collaboration with Uniqlo boasts a huge selection. Team with sultry shoes to riff on this sexagenarian's slick style.

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2. Play With Colour
(Image credit: Style du Monde)

Style Notes: The rule? Try to team your hue to your shoes (see, it rhymes!) and your notebook or clutch, if you can.

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3. Almost-Opaque Tights and Trainers Are a Thumbs Up
(Image credit: Getty Images)

Style Notes: Confused about trainers and tights? Best to stick to a dark style like model Daphne Groeneveld, and you're onto an off-duty winner.

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4. Have Fun With Fishnets
(Image credit: Style du Monde)

Style Notes: How fabulous do Pernille Teisbaek's ankles look? Dig out fishnets from your fancy-dress trunk, and extend the shelf life of cropped trousers.

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5. Team Super-Thick Opaques With Ankle Boots
(Image credit: Style du Monde)

Style Notes: We think we've finally cracked it—thick tights look better with closed wintry shoes such as leather ankle boots.

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6. Spotty Tights Go With Everything
(Image credit: Getty Images)

Style Notes: A polka dot never fails to bring a smile to our faces. Wear in the evening for a subtle nod to the '80s, or wear with skirts and trainers in the day.

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7. Super-Sheers and Peeptoes Make the Best Combination
(Image credit: Getty Images)

Style Notes: Toes clad in 100-deniers just don't look right. Opt for a 20-denier tight to take those scrappy shoes into colder climes.

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8. Don't Dismiss Super-Fine Fishnets
(Image credit: Getty Images)

Style Notes: At a glance, it looks like Turkish trendsetter Ece Sukan is wearing 20-deniers, but she's sporting finely spun fishnets. Try it with a pencil skirt. You might like it.

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9. Patterns Are Back
(Image credit: Rex/Shutterstock)

Style Notes: How awesome does Giovanna Battaglia look here? We love the unusual diamond pattern on her tights, which works in harmony with her quilt. Off to find a pair now…

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