A Descriptive Analysis Of Tights Vs. Leggings

Tights and leggings are normally used interchangeably but a true fashionista can tell you that this is a sartorial mistake. While leggings and tights seem almost alike, there are key differences between them. They differ in fabrics, length, and functionality, but you can create almost any outfit with the help of either one. Their similarities and differences will be highlighted below.

Tights and leggings are the most popular skin-tight clothing worn by women all over the world. A long time ago, men used to wear them for horse riding. Today, only women wear tights and leggings while men mostly stick with pants.  The reason why most people confuse the two attires is that they reveal the body curves especially the leg section. Before we outline the differences between tights and leggings, we want you to know that none of them are stockings or pantyhose. So, don’t get it twisted because otherwise you will be lost in the variety of their types. Some companies even make branded leggings that come out to be so good that you can find many faux versions on the market.

Leggings

These are skin-tight garments which cover the legs and can be worn alone like normal pants during casual occasions. Leggings are made of opaque and thicker fabrics such as spandex, polyester, and cotton. It is the high quality of the materials that make leggings relatively expensive. They are best worn under long t-shirts and tunics. Most leggings are designed to run from the waistline to the ankle so they do not cover your feet. You can use these bottoms as your everyday wear or weekend outfits. Nonetheless, you have to be careful when wearing leggings for official purposes. In such a case, wear them under skirts or dresses.

Leggings also come in various designs, patterns, colors, and prints. Some variations have reinforcements at the crotch area and pockets. Avoid cheap brands which sell transparent and low-quality garments. When it comes to footwear, choose riding boots and sneakers. However, any shoes that match the legging design may be worn. One of the top benefits is that they can be worn throughout the seasons of the year. Almost always leggings come in the footless variant and usually, they are opaque by color.

Apart from being statement pieces, leggings are the ideal gym wear thanks to their comfortable and elasticized fabrics. It is easier to stretch and run in them and unlike tights, leggings hardly get damaged when scratched against rough materials.

Tights

Tights are garments that often sheath the body from the waist to the end of your legs. They have a tighter fit than leggings. Tights cover the feet and they are somehow transparent so they need to be worn under a dress, shorts, or skirt, especially if they come in a footed variant. It would be immoral for a woman to wear them as a standalone garment. Though tights are usually footed, there is another variety of footless tights which shouldn’t be confused with leggings. All tights are thin and lightweight in nature so they look almost transparent on the legs. Tights are made from such materials as nylon, polyester, and cotton, and even though some can have an animal print on them, be sure that it’s only a faux material. Like their counterparts, tights also come in countless designs some of which are suitable for formal occasions like colorful tights while others are good for casual events. Footed tights are very elastic so they stretch so well when you are wearing tights under any type of clothes. Often, women wear tights under skirts and dresses, and they can create any outfit with them.

Since they are elasticized undergarments, tights can also be used as workout clothes. But you should be careful because otherwise they can get ripped when scratched against tough objects. When it comes to pricing, footed tights are cheaper than leggings.

A summary of tights vs. legging

Learning the differences between tights and leggings can help you make proper styling decision. Leggings and tights, depending on the hemline, may be worn under tunic. Always wear tights with a long shirt or a tunic that falls far below your waist because otherwise, you wouldn’t feel comfortable in your outfit. Lastly, ensure that you know your body type and size before purchasing either of them.