How to Wear Patterned Tights

One of the easiest ways to add some texture and interest to a basic black dress is to add patterned tights. Most of the best looks feature an open-work pattern that lets your skin peek through to show texture (they work much like fishnets but in different patterns.) Here's how to make them work:

Choose smaller repeating patterns for the most subtle look. In my photo, right, I chose a vertical open-work stripe from Span x ( buy direct) to elongate my legs.

Pair patterned tights with simple dresses or tunics: a basic black knee-length dress in jersey, sweater knit or crepe works beautifully with patterned tights.

Almost any shoe works great with patterned tights, even open-toed shoes.

Tone-on-tone looks (black tights with a black dress) are the easiest and most flattering way to wear this look.