Color Me Happy

We're shedding our basic tans and blacks today for a more colorful look. As the day's get shorter and the temperature drops the time comes to break out the colorful tights. And oh are there plenty of options out there, whether you're looking for solid colors or prefer a pattern. Following is just a sample of what's out there right now, with more to come in the future:



Celeste Stein Designs Lurex Tights

65% nylon 35% cotton

$32












Jonathan Aston Rose Glass Lace and Opaque Tights

86% nylon and 14% elastane; 40 denier

£ 10.00 ($16.79)

Oroblu All Colors 50 Slide Touch Tights

90% nylon and 10% elastane; 50 denier

Available in 15 different colors.

£ 10.00 ($16.71)

Jonathan Aston Spot Seam Tights

91% nylon and 9% elastane; 15 denier

Available in 3 different colors.

£ 8.00 ($13.43)

Aristoc Wet Look Tights

90% nylon and 10% elastane; 80 denier

Available in 2 colors

£ 14.68 ($24.65)

Jonathan Aston Leopard Print Tights

95% nylon and 5% elastane; 40 denier

Available in 4 colors.

£8.95 ($15.03)

Pamela Mann 50 Denier Tights

Lycra based tights.

Available in 19 different colors!

£4.99 ($8.38)

Cette Manhattan Fashion Tights

66% polyamide, 27% polypropylene, 6% elastane, 1% cotton

40 denier

Horizontal lines. Available in 2 colors.

£13.65 ($22.92)

Trasparenze Fedora Tights

85% polyamide, 15% elastane, opaque tights.

Diamond shaped pattern. Available in 2 colors.

£12.95 ($21.75)

Wolford Velvet DevLuxe 50

84% nylon and 15% elastane; 50 denier

Available in 13 different colors.

£18.00 ($30.23)

So....what's YOU'RE favorite color?

One of Three

One style of leg wear that has been surfacing quite a bit lately, is the dog tooth tights. Dog tooth is certainly not a new pattern, as it's been the fashion of choice is Tuscaloosa since the mid 1950s. But even The Bear, himself, never wore it as good as the following three options of tights (at least that any of us know of ;-)). But which is the best? As always, I'm hoping you all can help me choose. Whichever of these three gets the most love in the comments section will be bought and reviewed by me in an upcoming post. As always, I can't wait to hear all of your comments.

Thanks, as always, for your comments last week. In quite the resounding fashion, the Hue Black Liquid Leggings won out. Quite honestly I was hoping they would be the leggings of choice, and they were. They'll be reviewed in an upcoming post, very soon.

On to this week:

Levante Chevron Dogtooth Tights

The pattern on these is a bit more understated, as it is done in a gray on gray. That said, the Levante Chevron Dogtooth Tights are quite nice looking, very versatile, and look warm and comfortable. With the temperature outside due to drop like a rock any day now, I think I'm liking these even better.

They are an opaque tights and the smart looking pattern allows them to be worn in a business setting as well as with a more casual skirt and sweater look. The tone of them, as well as the Levante quality, will allow these tights to be worn over and over as it's unlikely the wearer would get sick of them or the pattern would grow old.

These tights are made from a blend of 88% nylon, 10% lycra, and 2% cotton. I don't have a denier count available, but it seems as though it would be in the 40 (or perhaps higher range). They are made in Italy and available in gray only. They come in medium, tall, and extra tall allowing them to be worn by people with heights up to 6-foot-1. These are also pretty reasonably priced, as they will only set you back £8.65.

Jonathan Aston Dog Tooth Coloured Tights

If the Levante's were understated and conservative, the Jonathan Aston Dog Tooth Coloured Tights are anything but. Certainly Aston decided to go in the exact opposite direction, wanting these tights to help the wearer stand out and get noticed. They're pictured here in 'Ochre', but they are also available in velvet-purple, peacock, and jewel pink.

Similar to the Levante's, these are a more opaque tight and the bright colors help make them perfect for the winter months both by adding plenty of color and by keeping the wearer warm while bearing one's legs. Jonathan Aston is always a leader when it comes to bright colorful patterns, and unique styles, and these tights are no exception. While many of the other dog tooth tights I saw while looking around were done in blacks and grays, these couldn't be more different.

The tights are made from a blend of 93% nylon and 7% elastane. They are warm and opaque at 40 denier. They come in the 4 colors listed above in two different sizes. Once again, they're a pretty reasonable price and good value at £7.90.

Pamela Mann Dogtooth Tights

I've been turned on to Pamela Mann tights a bit more recently than the Jonathan Aston's, but I'm ever bit as happy to have found them. Similar to the options above, Pamela Mann tights are always a great quality at a good value, allowing you to think you wearing tights that were much more expensive than they really were.

The Pamela Mann Dogtooth Tights are available in two different options. If you want colorful like the Aston's, you can get them in a purple and black combination. If you want a more traditional look, you can go for the more basic black and white. Either way the thing that stands out about the Pamela Mann tights, is that the dog tooth pattern is much bigger on these than either of the other options. It depends upon personal preference, but the big pattern really works on these tights, in my opinion.

These tights are 100% nylon. They appear quite opaque, but I can't seem to find a denier count anywhere. They are one size and available in the 2 colors listed above. They cost £10.00, so they are only slightly more expensive than the two styles above.

Despite the fact that we're going with one pattern here, there are three quite different looks here. It's all a question of how distinct or subtle you like this pattern. It all depends on how colorful you like your warm winter tights to be. So which will it be? I'm looking forward to hearing what you think.

Holiday Party?

I guess we're approaching that time of year. Soon we'll be heading out to events that call for a certain level of formal wear but still need a holiday-inspired twist. On way to add a little holiday shine to a little-black-dress event is with the right pair of tights.

The Jonathan Aston Nite Lite Tights could work perfectly. They're your typical Jonathan Aston sheer black tights, but they have a strong shimmer to them. Not just your every day shimmer, these is done in a golden tone. The golden sparkle jumps off these tights and creates a starry night sky look on your legs. It's quite a strong shimmer, so don't try these unless you really want that holiday sparkle.

The tights are quite comfortable, but not the softest I've ever tried. The shiny material with the extra sheerness makes them a tiny bit rougher to the touch, but nothing even approaching uncomfortable. As always, with Jonathan Aston, they're quite durable and a great value for the money.

These tights are 68% polyamide and 32% lurex. They're available in 3 different color combinations: gold on black, silver on black, and gold on chocolate. I tried the gold on black and these certainly have a serious shine to them. They're also available in 3 different sizes. They're super sheer at 10 denier, save for a boxer brief and a reinforced toe. These tights cost £8.00 (about $13USD). Not bad for an early holiday present to yourself.

It's Gettin' Cold......

Three things I'm not ready for:

1. The first time someone walks by my office and says, "Hey, did you hear how much snow we're supposed to get tomorrow?".

2. Weather reports that include the wind chill.

3. Being late for work behind a driver who is apparently encountering a quarter-inch of snow for the first time in his/her life.

Three things I'm already sick of:

1. Every time someone says, "It's supposed to be a really cold winter this year".

2. That I keep hearing, "We're well below average temperatures for this time of year".

3. That we've already reached the point where everyone asks each other "How is it out there?" every time someone comes in from outside.

Yes I know, Winter is almost upon us. And while cold temperatures don't bother me as much as some people, I hate when fall comes to an end. I especially hate the constant reminders of how miserable winters are around here. Yeah I know...I've lived here all my life.

But it's inevitable in a death and taxes sort of way. When my parents came to this country, they picked New England...and for some reason I never left, so this is what I deal with.

At least its an excuse to start looking at the heavier tights. As always, there are some great looks out there, and you don't have to spend a fortune. Let's look at some below.

How about some merino wool? The Trasparenze Gennifer Merino Wool Tights will help keep your legs warm throughout the winter. They are made of 70% wool, 15% microfibre, and 15% elastane. They're also sheer to waist with a reinforced toe. They have a matte finish.

The best part? These tights come in 10 different colors. You can find a color to match virtually any look you might be going for. So there's no need to sacrifice comfort in the name of style. Just pick a color, throw these comfy tights on, and you're ready to rock your favorite outfit.

These tights come in 3 different sizes. They cost £12.20 (about $20).

The Pamela Mann Monochrome Tights are a fun two-tone pattern that are said to be "Chanel inspired". Good thing is, because they're Pamela Mann, you won't be paying Chanel prices.

These tights come in two different color options, either black/white or nude/black. They're a fun way to dress up a winter look and still stay warm. They're 40 denier, so they have decent thickness to protect the leg from the cooling temperatures.

These tights are sheer to waist and have a reinforced toe. They also have a matte finish. They're 90% nylon and 10% elastane. These tights come in one size fits all.

Once again, a little extra warmth won't cost you too much, as these tights are £8.95 (about $15).

Textured tights are also a very good option. Aristoc is always one of my favorite go-to brands when it comes to value. The Aristoc Wool Texture Diamond Opaque Tights here are made from a wool blend, but have a nice diamond pattern to them.

Aristoc did a great job of making a warm tight fashionable. These tights are sheer to waist and have a sheer toe. That would make them a good option for an event where you need to be dressy (maybe open-toed dressy) but the weather outside isn't so warm. These tights are made from 64% nylon, 30% wool, 5% elastane, and 1% cotton. They have a matte finish.

They're available in two different sizes in black only. They cost £11.74 (about $19). These tights are advertised as "thick and cozy" and are said to keep you warm throughout the winter.

Also available from Aristoc are the Striped Pellerine Tights. These tights are a comfy wool blend done in a very nice pattern. The nice texture and pattern again allow you to dress these tights up as much as you want and still stay warm.

These tights are a very opaque 60 denier. They're also 80% wool, combined with 17% nylon, 2% elastane, and 1% cotton.

I really like the way these look with just a pair of black pumps in the picture. They'd look just as good with a pair of knee boots, I think.

The tights come in 2 different sizes in black only. They cost £11.95 (about $20).

We're not done yet. After all, what says 'winter' more than a blue star design on a gray background. I love the way these look with the silver pumps in the picture. These are the Stellar Star Cozy Wool and Cotton Tights, by Jonathan Aston. These tights look perfect for a holiday party, or even just going out in the middle of the Winter.

Wool and cotton just sounds warm, doesn't it? They're a very opaque 80 denier, so there will be some thickness between your legs and the cold winter air. These tights are a blend of 40% wool, 40% cotton, 15% nylon, and 5% elastane.

These tights are available in one size in this pretty Zinc/Royal color. As with all of Jonathan Aston, these appear to be a pretty good value at £11.70 (about $19).

I'll keep updating on the latest cozy styles as the Winter rolls on. Just don't tell me how much snow we're going to be getting. I don't even want to know.

Stay warm, my friends.

Dots on the Spot

Today I am reviewing the Jonathan Aston Mini Dots Tights. As the weather has grown colder up here in New England (already!!) tights are being spotted around town everywhere. As such, I've noticed that, of the patterned varieties, the dots are a particular favorite. It makes me feel a bit behind the curve to have not reviewed a single such style yet. Fortunately, I had these available from a purchase I made a few weeks back. They certainly fit the description.

If I haven't said this enough already, you've got to make Jonathan Aston one of your go-to brands for tights. It's similar in looks to the premium brands, and they still feel great. The best part is that they are much more inexpensive than many of the other options, while still being spot on in terms of staying current and offering a variety of different looks. In addition, you aren't compromising quality. These aren't the wear-once-then-straight-to-the-garbage type either.

These tights are a perfect example of what Jonathan Aston can do. In addition to the stylish pattern, you can find them around in a few different colors (I opted for indigo, like the ones in the picture). This can present you with endless opportunities to spruce up different wardrobes and give your look a nice accent. They can be dressed up or dressed down as much as you like too, depending on what you choose to wear with it. Given the style and the price, I would certainly call these a must have.

The tights are 78% nylon, 12% elastane, and 10% polypropylene. The tights are 20 denier. The only problem with these is that Jonathan Aston has stopped making this particular style, so when they're gone, they're gone. The good news? I did still find them here, marked down to £5.36 ($8.75 USD), so you still have time.

Colour Me Happy

I've always been a fan of the bi-colored stocking. As I've lamented on here before, however, I just don't get that many opportunities to wear a garter belt, without completely giving away that fact that...I'm wearing a garter belt.

Which is why I really like the new OK Colour Block Stripe Tights from Jonathan Aston. While the tights-with-stocking-effect is certainly nothing new, I really like the way that they are done here. The color contrast really allows this pair of tights to lend itself to a stocking-like look. In this case, you can get the tights with legs colored either lipstick pink or violet (no subtleties here). Above the mid thigh the color changes to black with a grey stripe to really help sell the stocking look. These tights are really well done and I would love to see more colors in the future from JA. If I had one complaint it's that these tights are one size fits all (a sort of quality red flag, as far as I'm concerned). But considering they're from Jonathan Aston, I fully expect to like these.

The tights are made up of 90% nylon, 8% elastane, and 2% polypropylene. They are 40 denier. Finally these tights boast the affordability that JA is known for. Since these will only set you back £11.95 ($19.06 USD) why not get both colors?

One of Three

To the surprise of nobody, I'm sure, I'm getting the itch to do a little bit of shopping. Since the last time I had a chance to scour all of my favorite websites, many new styles have hit the market. This is both a good thing and a bad thing. It's a good thing because I'm seeing many things that I like. It's a bad thing because....I'm seeing many things that I like.

So, as I often do, I am seeking the help of my readers, or anyone else who may stumble across my blog. I'm throwing three different styles of tights out here, and I'm hoping I can get some help as to which one to purchase. If things go the way I'm hoping, I'll buy whichever one the commenters seem to like the best and I'll write a review as soon as I read it. Hopefully everyone gets a chance to tell me which they like best and maybe even why. Thanks, in advance, to all who participate.

Jonathan Aston Tartan Tights

Whenever I see tights from Jonathan Aston, I always wonder why I don't buy this brand more often. The few things I own, I love. Their styles are also always interesting an unique. The Tartan Tights definitely fit this description. They have a plaid design that is very colorful. They are certainly unlike anything I currently own.

They are 100% nylon and 40 denier. They have a matte finish and are sheer throughout, including the toe. They also have no gusset. They are one size, which sometimes worries me, as I've been a bit too tall for some of the one size tights that I've bought. But I like these enough that I'm willing to take a chance. They cost £8.00.

Henry Holland House Mock Stocking Tights

Anyone who has seen the many reviews I've done for Wolford tights knows that I like the mock stay up effect. That being the case, it would stand to reason that I'll also be a fan of the mock garter and stocking effect, should I give these tights a try.

They are sheer tights, that have the effect of a brief, garter strap, and stockings all done over the tights. I actually think these are pretty creative and like the style quite a bit. The brief is a v-line and stockings come above the mid thigh and even give the impression of a pull where they 'connect' with the suspenders. These also have a cotton gusset and a reinforced toe.

They are listed as 40 denier, I assume that's where the effects are as the 'exposed' part of the leg seems quite sheerer. They have a matte finish and are 92% nylon, 7% elastane, and 1% cotton. They are available in black, blue, pink, and purple. Feel free to let me know which color is your favorite. These tights cost £10.00.

Trasparenze Capriccio Tights

These tights from Trasparenze are done with a vintage look in mind. As with seemingly all Trasparenze tights, there is a lot going on with them. They have a sheer brief effect that is done on top of the tights. There is a thick black waistband and, just beneath, a lacy floral panty effect is done. Just below the panty, a back seem starts with a bow, descends down the leg, and then ends with another bow, just above the ankle.

The tights are 20 denier, have a sheer toe, and have a matte finish. They have a fabric content that is made up of 85% nylon and 15% elastane. They're available in black or cosmetic. I'd love to hear what others think, but personally I think I prefer the cosmetic, as I think the detail shows up better on that color. These tights cost £13.95.

So these are my three favorites. I'd love to know what others think and base my purchase on that. I look forward to hearing some thoughts and thank all who do post in advance.

Stirrup Tights

If you happen to be a fan of stirrup tights, there is quite a good deal going on right now at UK Tights. The always-a-good-value Jonathan Aston has a stirrup tight available in a variety of colors, some very bright and vibrant.

Right now they can be yours for only £5.45 ($8.85), marked down from £7.95 ($12.90). The tights are 90% nylon and 10% elastane. They are available in 2 different sizes .

Tights for Pennies...

Stockings HQ is in the midst of it's summer sale, and there are a number of really good bargains available at the moment. Among them, is the Jonathan Aston Wool Silk Tights, pictured here.

While local, we're approaching the time of year where wool or silk tights aren't exactly the best option, this might be a good enough deal to buy these and store them away until the cooler weather approaches. Currently, they are an amazing 85% off for a mere £1.50. Indeed, Jonathan Aston always provides you with a good deal for your money, but this is above and beyond even for them. The cut out style is very unique and a good pattern to add to one's collection.

They're available in black, chocolate, or ivory. They're 54% wool, 26% nylon, 18% silk, and 2% lycra. How nice does that sound? They have an opaque denier, and are made in Italy. And again, just in case you missed it, they're £1.50!!

The Season for Gardens...

Navigating the world of discount hosiery can sometimes be tricky. While there are many brands that claim to replicate the looks from runways, pinup girls, and fetish models, often times their promises end up in disappointment. What looks good on the model on the website can often look cheap or distorted upon purchase. What might fit great at 8AM, might also be nose diving towards your ankles by lunch time.

What this doesn't mean is that you have to spend $40-50 and up when you want a unique look coupled with a great fit. It just means that you need to be a bit more judicious and learn to look for brands you can trust. Today, I'm gaining hope that I can add another name to that list.

For all the good things I've heard about Jonathan Aston, their hosiery had never touched my skin. For all the unique and pretty styles I had seen from hosiery sellers, I knew very little about this brand over a year after starting this blog. But it was time to find out.

My first Aston purchase was the Garden Net Tights. As you may know, I have a thing for flower-printed tights. And oh do these have flowers. The tights have just the slightest toe reinforcement before turning into a really thin net pattern up the entirety of the tights until the thick waistband. The only other non-net portion of the tights is the cotton gusset. The flower pattern starts right at the edge of the toe reinforcement as well, at the bottom of the toes. From there, they continue along the bottom of the foot and up the back of the leg. They appear to almost be growing up the back seam of the leg. The front of the leg, on the other hand is just plain net.

These tights are one size fits all, and, unlike some other manufacturer's one size fits all, these should fit a variety of body shapes quite comfortably, all while not distorting the the flower print at all. They are available in black, dried rose, gravel gray, and pale pink. The photo shows the color I opted for: dried rose. They are a blend of 80% polyamide and 20% elastane (save for the cotton gusset). Best of all though, they're $12.95...and worth every penny.