As September approaches fast and another Michaelmas term looms on the horizon, there’s one thing that keeps me excited for the months to come: autumn fashion. Although the summer months are always a lot of fun, it’s in the refreshingly cool and vibrant autumn months that fashion really thrives. There are more than a few items in my wardrobe eagerly awaiting the arrival of some colder weather so that they can make their grand return, one of which is my array of multi-coloured tights.

In the wake of last year’s trend of sporting bright red tights beneath a black miniskirt and Mary Jane shoes, coloured tights have wandered their way into wardrobes everywhere. The look has become recognisably popular, and I’m sure many others are excited to wear them again as the weather becomes colder, which makes me wonder what new tights trends we are going to see this year. I have no doubt that we will witness the return of these kinds of bright block-coloured tights, as well as timeless favourites like the fishnet or polka-dot, but there are also many more ways to experiment with the patterns and colours of your tights, and even the way you wear them.

“I have no doubt that we will witness the return of these kinds of bright block-coloured tights”

Colours

Incorporating colour into your choice of tights is a tried and tested recipe for an interesting outfit, whether in combination with other vibrant pieces or as a splash of colour to spice up a more low-key look. As I’ve mentioned, red is a popular bold and eye-catching choice which really epitomises this versatility – it can support brighter and louder pieces as part of a more maximalist ensemble, or be a fearsome but understated pop of colour in any classic outfit, much like a red lip. Other bright colours like blue, pink, and even yellow can have similar effects, although these can be more tricky to style. To incorporate coloured tights into more casual looks, you could experiment with more muted colours which complement a wider range of styles of skirt or dresses.

Layers

If you are already the proud owner of several different coloured tights, a great way to create even more exciting looks is to start layering. A technique I started by using is to layer tights of different deniers to create a translucent effect, wearing a thinner pair on the outside, so that when you move your legs or bend your knees the top layer stretches and becomes see-through, revealing the colour of the pair underneath. It makes me feel like a kid mixing up paints to create (often hideous) new colours – which is exactly how I like to feel when putting together an outfit. But, you don’t have to limit yourself to layering with only colour. Tights with different mesh patterns, or even classic fishnets, look great layered over coloured tights (and each other). Exploring stockings and suspenders can also be a great way to create different layers, while also adding a slightly sexy twist!

“When it comes to tights, there really is no limit to the strange ways you can use them to amplify any kind of look”

Patterns

Once you’ve started experimenting with sporting multiple pairs of coloured tights at the same time, you will likely start to see your legs as a canvas of infinite (if rather strange) possibilities. Tights with printed patterns, designs, or even text on them can be an excellent addition to your wardrobe for layering. They can charmingly complement, or even be complemented by, designs or patterns elsewhere in your outfit. You could also create a rather striking look using two pairs by wearing tights of a different colour, design, or pattern on each leg, which can be an excellent addition to an otherwise bold or asymmetrical outfit. You could start experimenting with texture, deliberately employing strategic rips or ladders for a stylishly dishevelled look – I’ve even seen people wearing certain polka-dot tights inside out to create an unusual three-dimensional effect.

When it comes to tights, there really is no limit to the strange ways you can use them to amplify any kind of look. As colder weather approaches, I encourage you to consider not only how coloured and patterned tights might return in popular trends, but how you might be experimenting with tights in your own wardrobe this autumn.