How to Choose Pantyhose
Pantyhose offer all-in-one coverage from waist to toe. Unlike stockings, they don't require a garter belt and provide a smoother silhouette. Here's how to choose the right pair.
Pantyhose vs. Stockings
| Pantyhose | Stockings |
|---|---|
| All-in-one garment | Requires garters or silicone |
| Smoother under clothes | Visible lines possible |
| Stays in place | Can slip |
| Less bathroom convenience | Easier access |
| Modern/practical | Vintage/lingerie aesthetic |
Choose Your Style
Sheer Pantyhose
- Classic look: 10-20 denier
- Natural appearance: Leg shows through
- Professional: Standard for office wear
- Delicate: Prone to runs
Control Top
- Shaping panty: Smooths tummy and hips
- Support levels: Light to firm control
- Popular choice: Most practical for everyday
- Warmer: Thicker panty section
Sheer-to-Waist
- All sheer: No reinforced panty
- Under light clothing: Nothing shows through
- Cooler: Less fabric at waist
- Less support: No shaping benefits
Opaque Pantyhose
- 40+ denier: No transparency
- Fashion statement: Bold colors work
- Winter wear: Warmth and coverage
- Durable: Harder to run
Denier Guide for Pantyhose
| Denier | Look | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 5-10 | Ultra-sheer | Special occasions |
| 15 | Sheer | Everyday, office |
| 20 | Semi-sheer | All-purpose |
| 30-40 | Semi-opaque | Cooler weather |
| 60+ | Opaque | Winter, fashion |
See our complete denier guide.
Toe Styles
Reinforced Toe
- Thicker toe area: More durable
- Best for: Closed-toe shoes
- Shows through: Visible in sandals
Sandal Toe
- Sheer to the tip: No reinforcement
- Best for: Open-toe shoes, sandals
- Less durable: May wear faster
Toeless
- Open toe design: Toes exposed
- Best for: Peep-toe shoes
- Can shift: May need adjustment
Choosing Your Color
Nude Shades
- Match your skin: Most natural look
- Light nude: Fair skin tones
- Medium nude: Most versatile
- Suntan/Bronze: Adds warmth
- Dark nude: Deeper skin tones
Black
- Sheer black: Elegant, leg-slimming
- Opaque black: Bold fashion statement
- Best with: Dark clothing, evening wear
Fashion Colors
- Navy: Professional alternative to black
- Grey: Modern, sophisticated
- Burgundy/Wine: Fall fashion
- Bold colors: Statement tights
Getting the Right Size
Sizing Factors
- Height: Determines length
- Weight: Determines stretch
- Hip measurement: Some brands use this
Size Chart Basics
| Size | Height | Weight |
|---|---|---|
| A/Small | 4'10"-5'4" | 90-120 lbs |
| B/Medium | 5'2"-5'7" | 115-145 lbs |
| C/Large | 5'5"-5'10" | 140-175 lbs |
| D/XL | 5'8"-6'0" | 165-200 lbs |
| Q/Plus | 5'5"+ | 180-250 lbs |
Sizes vary by brand—always check the specific size chart.
Signs of Wrong Size
- Too small: Waistband rolls, crotch too low
- Too big: Saggy knees, excess at waist
Special Features
Compression
- Graduated pressure: Improves circulation
- Levels: 8-15 mmHg (light) to 20-30 mmHg (medical)
- Best for: Standing jobs, travel, tired legs
Moisture-Wicking
- Breathable: Reduces sweat
- Cooler: Better for warm weather
- Active wear: Good for busy days
Run-Resistant
- Special knitting: Resists ladder runs
- More durable: Longer lasting
- May feel different: Slightly different texture
Choosing by Occasion
| Occasion | Recommended |
|---|---|
| Office/Work | 15-20D, nude or black, control top |
| Interview | 15D, nude, sheer professional |
| Wedding | 10-15D, nude, sandal toe |
| Evening event | 15D black or sheer-to-waist |
| Winter daily | 40-60D opaque |
| Summer | 10D ultra-sheer or bare legs |
Budget Guide
Budget ($3-8)
- Good for trying styles
- May not last as long
- Sizing less consistent
Mid-Range ($8-20)
- Better quality and fit
- More reliable sizing
- Best value for daily wear
Premium ($20+)
- Superior construction
- Best sheerness and feel
- Worth it for special occasions
Starter Recommendation
For everyday wear: 15 denier, nude, control top, reinforced toe. This versatile combination works for most occasions and offers good durability.