Pantyhose and tights are the perfect accessory to an outfit, and runways agree.

By: Mitra Asgarinik

For the past few years, leggings have been the big thing; however, we must not forget leggings' better half, or whole rather, pantyhose.

Unfortunately, pantyhose (also referred to as stockings or tights)?seem to be associated with grandmas and improved circulation, so women tend to steer away from them as of late. Personally, I think tights are far more flattering than leggings, and should be worn more often. Pantyhose aren't matronly as grandmas and critics make them out to be. In fact, pantyhose make an outfit more lively and fun, especially with the array of colors they come in. Runways and fashion ads have been incorporating leggings more often, and celebrities have been wearing them more and more too.

In this day and age, women are striving to be sexy fashionistas, so we want to show off our legs. Some ladies believe that tights are "too old" and are perceived as unfashionable or worn out, but that's not true! "Wearing pantyhose today isn't the conservative statement it once was" says Heather Murphy of the Los Angeles Times. Truer words were never spoken, especially with the vast selection of colors to choose from with pantyhose. If anything, pantyhose can liven up an outfit, and make it more playful. With the winter season arriving, you can mix up your wardrobe and opt for a thick pair of tights rather than a pair of slacks.

? Stores like Urban Outfitters and Americal Apparel offer tights in bright colors like teal, hot pink, and even metallics. If these colors leave you feeling a little too 80s, try some mellowed out bold colors or neutrals, which you can find at department stores such as Macy*s and Nordstrom. Play around with different colors of tights, shoes, and clothes to create dazzling outfits. You'll find yourself choosing stockings rather than leggings. I also think stockings are super comfortable, contrary to other beliefs. I feel like I'm constantly dancing on stage in a pretty outfit or working it down a catwalk in a pair.

Stockings are extremely versatile as well, and are the perfect accessory to any outfit. They can be worn under shorts, skirts, dresses, or can even pull a longer top off as a sexy dress. (Pssst! Try an adorable, longer sweater over tights!) So, are you ready to step into a pair? Here are a few suggestions as to how to wear them with style.

A pair of solid open-toed heels with some alternating colored tights are perfect for a formal dinner or night on the town. Pantyhosed toes are not an everyday sight, and will definitely show off a classy pair of Jimmy Choos.

Photo courtesy of UrbanOutfitters.Com

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As with this Coach ad, colorful solid tights will definitely catch eyes. Accessorize tights with a pair of flats or wedges for a girly and playful look, perfect for making a statement at an outing or party.

Photo courtesy of Coach.Com

Stockings with boots are a personal favorite. The duo reeks of the winter season, and will optimize for warmth with fashion in mind. Pair stockings and boots together for a walk downtown or any informal occasion.

Photo courtesy of UrbanOutfitters.Com

To spice an outfit up even more,?add a pair?of?leg warmers over pantyhose or leggings for some extra fashion. Wear the two with a pair of heels for a downtown classy look.

Photo courtesy of UrbanOutfitters.Com