To help you choose the right tights is helps to be able to know what the words mean! Here are some of the main terms used and their meanings:-

 

Elastane

Also known as Spandex. It is a synthetic fibre known for its strength, durability and elasticity.

 

 

Flat Seams

The seams of the tights are completely flat so that they lie flat against the skin and as a result leave little/no mark on the body. Flat seams are comfortable against the skin. The majority of tightsplease products have flat seams.

 

 

Girdle

Worn as an undergarment and designed to enhance a woman’s figure. Helps to create a narrow, nipped-in waist. Tightsplease provide a selection of girdles including support girdles which means while creating a smooth silhouette, it lifts and supports the waist and back.

 

 

Graduated Compression

Used in tights to support the legs in order for a feeling of comfort at the end of a busy day. Maximum compression starts at the feet and aids in circulating blood and fluid through the legs in order to help prevent the following problems that standing on your feet all day can sometimes produce: -

• Varicose Veins
• Tired, aching legs
• Swelling

 

 

Gusset

A panel sewn between the legs of tights to ensure a high level of comfort is met. Usually made with breathable fabrics, such as cotton, for hygiene.

 

 

Knee Highs

Tights or socks that end just below the knee. Can be worn with skirts or under trousers depending on fashion at the time and comes in many colours and patterns including fishnet.

 

 

Lace and Crochet Tights

Lace and crochet tights range from elaborate patterns and textures to complicated stitching. The patterns are created by loops of yarn that have been pulled through other loops of yarn. Crochet tights can be made up of any sized holes to create patterns or shapes such as a bunch of flowers. 

 

 

Leg Warmers

Similar to a sock but footless. Originally worn by dancers to keep calves warm while they loosen up their muscles. Often seen on young adults as a fashion statement and can be worn on bare legs, over boots, shoes and skinny jeans. Can also be worn on arms as arm warmers.

 

 

Lurex

A metallic yarn used in tights for fashion purposes.

 

Matte Finish

A flat look to a pair of tights – no sheen or shine. Smart and sophisticated – a great finish for wearing during the day.

 

 

Nylon - Also known as Polyamide

A synthetic (man-made) fibre that is the core component to hosiery. Its characteristic include: - durability, excellent abrasion resistance, easy-care and highly resilient.

 

 

Opaque Hosiery

Durable tights that are usually medium to high denier. Usually worn during the cooler months to keep legs fully covered and warm. They come in a range of colours, styles and materials such as ribbed, cable, wool, cotton, body shaping, and gloss.

 

Reinforced Toe/Heel

Extra strong area to prevent ladders and holes. A heavier yarn or different knit construction is often used especially on low denier and sheer tights.

 

Sheer Hosiery

Sheer hosiery has a barely there effect with a hint of shine to the tights. They are normally between 5-20 deniers which mean they are great for covering up legs while staying cool through the warmer months.

 

 

Shiny Tights

A general term for tights with any shine or sparkle to them. Lurex is most commonly used for high sparkle tights.

 

 

Ski Pants

Originally designed for dancers, Ski Pants otherwise known as Stirrups have recently become a fashion favourite. The bottom of the legs have an extra piece of material that hooks underneath the foot or shoe.

 

 

Support Tights

Support tights are specifically designed to give support from the toes to under the bust. They can help you to avoid everything from back pain to swollen ankles and can reduce the risk of varicose veins. The graduated compression in the tights reduces swelling helping legs to feel revitalised throughout the day. The higher the factor used to describe support tights, the more support given: -

Factor 6 = light support

Factor 8 = medium support

Factor 10 = firm support

Factor 12 = extra firm support.

 

 

Suspender Tights

Otherwise known as stockings and consists of two separate pieces – one for each leg that covers the foot and ends at the thigh. Suspender tights can come in any colour or style and need to be held up by a Suspender Belt. Suspender tights are often seen as preferable to tights for reasons such as:

• Aesthetic – fashionable, detailed top (lace, bows, colours etc), suspender belt, no visible waist line, to feel feminine and sexy and so on.
• Health – more ventilation
• Convenience – quick to pull off and on.

 

 

Yarn

A long and continuous length of interlocked fibres made into a thread which then is used to make a pair of tights.