Tights and leggings seem like some of the most challenging pieces to make both interesting and wearable. Styling these, however, with their own array of prints, patterns and colors, is actually much easier than one might think.
When shopping for an appealing pair of tights, try Urban Outfitters’ variations for $14. Many stand out and can easily be pulled off with high-waisted denim shorts or a printed knee-length dress. For motorcycle chic look, the store’s dragon tight is sheer with a twisted tattoo dragon motif printed on both shins. For a casual feel, pair Urban’s velvet patterned tight, featuring a symmetrically embroidered line on the front and back, with an A-line skirt, a warm wrap scarf and your favorite booties.
The store also offers dozens of sassy printed leggings will excite anyone. For $39, a panda-print pair offer a monochromatic and adorable nod to the animal kingdom. Also for $39, try the store’s matrix jewel legging in a metallic rainbow print. Paired with a rich blue turtleneck crop top and a black cardigan, this legging becomes part of a cool and coordinated outfit.
If you’re ready for something luxurious, visit Gigi K, a store specializing solely in tights. One of the store’s best-sellers features a group of mythical creatures, complete with magic fish and unicorns. The printed appears on the shin of a sheer tight that is subtle yet unique. Pair this with a dark, oversized wool sweater, booties and a long chain pocket-watch necklace for a complete look.
For something more affordable, but just as stylish, venture to Forever 21 to pick up a pair of burgundy floral tights for $8. For a dollar more, try their black tights with a recurring white-square pattern. Pair either of these with an olive green jacket or skirt, and the look is instantly made.
“When I wear crazy leggings, they should be the one thing in my outfit that pop,” Steinhardt freshman Meilyn Huq said about her personal style. “If you put too much color along with patterned leggings, it just gets to be too much.”
American Apparel is the absolute winner of legging prints. With multiple racks of printed leggings ranging from $32 to $48, the store carries patterns sure to make heads turn in the best way possible. For a clean, attention-grabbing look, pair their solid metallic silver legging with any wine pull-over sweater. Add a black oversized cardigan for a warm and chic street style. To walk the line of outlandish fashion, try their purple geo-printed shiny legging with a black T-shirt, white cropped jacket, and white shoes.
Flamboyant legging patterns are evolving, and stores carry more of these chaotic and fashionable bottoms every day. Wearing them is easy with the right clothes and, most importantly, the right attitude.
A version of this article appeared in the Tuesday, Oct. 30 print edition. David Bologna is a staff writer. Email him at [email protected].