Summer Hosiery Guide

Hot weather doesn't mean abandoning hosiery. The right styles keep you looking polished while staying cool and comfortable.

Summer Hosiery

Why Wear Hosiery in Summer?

  • Professional settings: Many offices still expect hosiery
  • Formal events: Weddings, interviews, dressy occasions
  • Leg coverage: Hide imperfections, even skin tone
  • Shoe comfort: Reduces friction and blisters
  • UV protection: Some hosiery offers sun protection

Best Summer Styles

Ultra-Sheer Pantyhose

The lightest option at 5-10 denier:

  • Nearly invisible appearance
  • Minimal warmth added
  • Evens skin tone subtly
  • Most delicate—handle carefully

Toeless/Open-Toe

Toeless and sandal-toe styles:

  • Wear with sandals and peep-toes
  • Toes stay cooler
  • No visible toe seam
  • Available in pantyhose and stockings

Knee-Highs

Knee-highs under pants or long skirts:

  • Less coverage = cooler
  • No waistband on stomach
  • Easy to remove if needed
  • Professional under trousers

Thigh-Highs

Stay-ups eliminate panty section heat:

  • No extra layer on torso
  • Air circulation underneath
  • Silicone bands may slip with sweat
  • Consider garter belt alternative

Fabric Technology

Cooling Features

  • Moisture-wicking: Pulls sweat away from skin
  • Breathable yarns: Allow air circulation
  • Cotton gusset: Absorbs moisture
  • Cooling treatments: Some brands add cooling agents

Materials to Seek

  • High nylon content (more breathable than polyester)
  • Minimal spandex (reduces stretch heat)
  • Cotton or bamboo blends
  • Silk (natural temperature regulation)

Color Selection

Best Summer Colors

  • Nude/Natural: Matches skin, disappears
  • Light tan: Slight warmth without heat
  • Ivory/Off-white: For pale skin tones
  • Suntan: Adds glow

Colors to Avoid

  • Black (absorbs heat)
  • Dark opaques (too heavy visually and physically)
  • Thick textures (winter looks out of place)

Staying Comfortable

Anti-Chafe Tips

  • Apply anti-chafe balm before dressing
  • Choose styles with cotton gussets
  • Consider shorts-style control tops
  • Body powder absorbs moisture

Keeping Cool

  • Air conditioning is your friend
  • Carry a small fan
  • Stay hydrated
  • Remove hosiery when possible

Work Dress Code Solutions

When your office requires hosiery in summer:

  • Keep spare pair at desk
  • Change into fresh pair midday
  • Choose lightest acceptable denier
  • Advocate for relaxed summer dress code

When to Skip Hosiery

In extreme heat (90°F+), bare legs with self-tanner or leg makeup may be the wiser choice. Most modern dress codes now accept bare legs in summer for all but the most formal occasions.