To fit tights correctly, they should feel second-skin tight. This means they should fit closely to your body without wrinkles or bagginess.
Understanding the Ideal Fit for Tights
The goal when fitting tights is to achieve a smooth, close fit that moves with you. Drawing from the principles of how leggings should fit, tights should similarly feel like a comfortable layer that hugs your legs.
- Second-Skin Tight: As referenced, the ideal fit is second-skin tight. This is the primary characteristic you're looking for.
- No Wrinkles or Bagginess: Properly fitting tights should exhibit no wrinkles or bagginess, particularly around the ankles, knees, or crotch. These are common signs that the tights are too large.
- Close to the Body: If the tights hang loose away from your body, they are not tight enough, and you've likely chosen a size that's gone too big. They should conform to your shape.
- Feel: When tights fit correctly, they feel like a hug on your legs, providing gentle compression and support rather than feeling loose or restrictive in the wrong places. If they don't feel like a hug, they might be too loose or the wrong size.
Practical Steps for Fitting Tights
Finding the right fit involves more than just guessing. Here are practical steps:
1. Check the Size Chart
Most tights brands provide a size chart, often based on height and weight. This is your first point of reference.
| Size | Typical Height Range | Typical Weight Range |
|---|---|---|
| Small | 5'0" - 5'4" | 90 - 120 lbs |
| Medium | 5'4" - 5'8" | 120 - 150 lbs |
| Large | 5'8" - 5'10" | 150 - 180 lbs |
| X-Large | 5'10"+ | 180 lbs+ |
Note: Size charts vary significantly between brands. Always check the specific brand's guide.
2. Consider Material and Stretch
Different materials (nylon, spandex, microfiber, wool blends) have varying degrees of stretch and opacity. More stretch (higher spandex content) often allows for a more forgiving fit within a size range.
3. Try Them On
The best way to ensure a good fit is to try the tights on.
- Smooth Them Out: Pull them up carefully, smoothing out any excess fabric as you go.
- Assess the Fit: Check for the key indicators:
- Do they lie smoothly against your skin everywhere?
- Are there no wrinkles or bagginess around the ankles or knees?
- Is the waistband comfortable without digging or slipping?
- Does the crotch panel sit correctly without hanging too low?
- Do they feel second-skin tight, providing a gentle hug?
- If the tights hang loose away from your body, they are too big.
- Move Around: Walk, sit, and stretch slightly. The tights should stay in place and feel comfortable during movement.
4. Account for Compression (Optional)
Some tights offer compression, which provides a tighter, more supportive fit. If you're fitting compression tights, expect them to feel quite snug, but still follow the same principles of smooth, wrinkle-free coverage.
By focusing on the second-skin tight feel, avoiding wrinkles or bagginess, and ensuring they don't hang loose but instead feel like a hug, you can achieve the proper fit for tights.
