How to Shop for Killer Stockings

Covering your legs can keep you warm on chilly evenings, hide a bug bite or a few razor bumps and add spice to any outfit.

Finding the right stockings will make you more comfortable while improving your fashion sense. Many pairs of stockings feature thick elastic bands at the top to keep them from slipping. You can also use a simple garter belt to keep your stockings at the right height throughout a long day. Try tracking down a few new pairs by using these three tips during the shopping process:

1. Explore The Color Spectrum
   Thick and opaque stockings in bright or neutral colors can make an otherwise boring outfit pop. Bright colors tend to work best as the centerpiece of a monochrome outfit, while neutral tones can be paired with patterns without becoming overwhelming. Avoid bright red, green or yellow unless you know that your skin tone works well with these colors. Translucent colored stockings also have less of an impact on your outfit if you find solid colored stockings too over the top.
2. Remember Comfort
   Many stockings are designed to keep you comfortable and stylish through a long day at the office. Pick up a pair at a compression stocking store if you have issues with swelling in your feet and legs, or look for thicker stockings to keep your legs warm in the winter. Wool stockings are the best for winter wear. If you expand your search, it’s easy to find stockings with cute patterns or textures that are also very comfortable. If you wear flats or boots with your stockings, pick a pair with sock-style foot coverage to prevent blisters.
3. Complement Your Body
   Wearing the right hosier can make you look slender and sleek or add substance to skinny legs. Look for busy patterns or woven textures if your legs are thin. Horizontal stripes also work well for this purpose. Women who want a slimming effect should use dark-colored stockings or vertical stripes. If patterns and colors aren’t appropriate, look for a stocking with a Cuban seam running up the back for a subtle touch. Lycra stockings also tend to offer more support for women with larger legs than thin nylon material. Plus-size stockings are available if you need some extra material around your thighs or calves.

Stockings can be a great choice for women looking to spice up their outfit selection or seek relief from swelling. Fortunately, these days there are many stylish options for wearing compression stockings.