The Colorful Tights Trend Is Reviving Our Cold-Weather Wardrobes

Colder weather can make it feel more difficult to put together an inspired, joyful look, but elements like a bright handbag, tall boots, or a statement coat can take your ensemble to the next level. But what about tights? Whether you’ve fully embraced Rory Gilmore’s preppy fall wardrobe or you lean more towards ‘90s grunge, black tights have always been a closet staple for every style. The sheer nylons, which are a go-to for extra warmth or as part of a fashion statement, have been such a constant that they often fade into the background—but now, classic tights are getting a colorful revamp that’s impossible to overlook. These days, TikTok’s trendiest fashion influencers are swapping the closet staple for vivid tights in every shade imaginable. Black tights remain a wardrobe essential, but these on-trend statement alternatives are sparking some serious outfit inspiration and bringing some much-needed vibrancy to our neutrals-filled Instagram feeds. Read on to learn all about the colorful tights trend, from where it started to how to style it.

The Trend

Colorful tights are far from a new phenomenon (we’re looking at you, Ugly Betty and Gossip Girl), but the past few seasons in particular have spotlighted a sprinkling of candy-colored tights from major designers. Versace sent sheer, cool-toned pink and blue tights down its Fall 2023 runway, while Miu Miu catapulted to viral internet fame with its Fall 2023 bedazzled hot pants and accompanying sheer tights in a rainbow of colors. Bright red tights were also a favorite among designers, as the cherry-colored tights popped up in the Spring 2024 collections of Proenza Schouler, Acne Studios, and Ferragamo. 

And before the trend hit this fever pitch, who could forget the absolute grip Valentino’s Pink PP collection had on celebrities in 2022? Everyone from Jenna Ortega to Zendaya to Selena Gomez rocked the vibrant, opaque pink tights, which only added to the bubbling excitement of the Barbiecore trend. 

We’re still seeing celebrities tap into the colorful tights trend, this time in a more sheer finish, including Kylie Jenner, who recently wore bright blue tights in a promotional snap for her brand Khy, and Dua Lipa, who casually posed in sheer blue tights while also sporting the slightly chilly underwear-as-outerwear trend.

How to Wear It

Adding an extra pop of color into your ‘fits might feel slightly intimidating, especially if you prefer a sleek all-black wardrobe, but there are plenty of ways to incorporate the trend into your own personal style. 

Go for an entirely monochromatic look: We’re talking head-to-toe red (or your color of choice) with matching tights that perfectly meld your whole outfit together. It’s a callback to the pre-Barbie Valentino pink sensation, and it’s incredibly versatile to fit your style. More into dresses and frills? Match your favorite brightly colored, flowing dress to an equally vibrant pair of tights (with heels that blend right in, of course). If you lean towards the structured look, grab your best colorful blazer and skirt combo to go with matching nylons for the ultimate monochromatic power pose.  

If too much color isn’t really your style, dip your toe into the trend by breaking up a classic all-black outfit with a pop of unexpected color. Sneak a pair of bright green tights under a long black dress for a surprise glimpse of color or mix a rugged leather jacket with some playful blue tights for a charming twist. 

Finally, for the bold and the unapologetically bright, this is the perfect outlet for forging a color-blocking creation. Embrace a complementary color palette with an orange outfit and blue tights, or go for a hue’s close friend on the color wheel by mixing red and fuschia or cool-toned blues and purples. Layering is your best friend when it comes to styling these tights, so don’t shy away from pieces that’ll really make your tights pop. Basically, if your completed outfit looks like it could be worn by Harper from Wizards of Waverly Place, you’re doing something right. 

The Best Colorful Tights to Shop

Of course, the first step to getting into the colorful tights trend is picking up a pair or two that you’re excited about. Whether you want to match the hue to current seasonal trends, want a pair in your favorite color, or are looking for something that coordinates with your bold pattern of choice, countless statement-making options are out there—see a few of our favorites below.

The Final Takeaway

As colder temperatures and earlier sunsets make the streets feel dull and gray, colorful tights are a standout way to bring a little joy and excitement to our wardrobes—plus, they serve as a practical layer to boot. They’re more versatile than they appear at first glance, adding a less expected pop of color that can turn your favorite neutral ensembles into trend-forward statements. Whether you’re into timeless silhouettes or bold statements, add a little extra color to your tights this winter—we promise they won’t bite.