The little black dress is a wardrobe staple that can be dressed up or down for any occasion. However, figuring out what to wear on your legs with a black dress in the chilly winter months can be tricky. Black tights or stockings are a classic choice, but there are also many stylish options to keep your legs warm while complementing your dress.
Tights
Opaque black tights are likely the first thing that comes to mind when trying to cover your legs with a black dress in winter. Black tights are versatile, come in various fabrics like wool or cashmere for added warmth, and seamlessly blend in with any black dress. Here are some black tight options to consider:
- Matte opaque tights – These have a smooth, solid black look that elongates your legs.
- Sheer black tights – For added dimension, pair sheer black tights with black boots or booties.
- Patterned tights – Black tights with subtle patterns like polka dots or stripes can add interest.
- Wool or cashmere blend tights – For extra insulation against the cold, try tights with wool or cashmere woven in.
- Fleece-lined tights – Fleece lining makes these extra warm and cozy.
Leggings
Leggings are another way to cover up with a black dress in winter. Black leggings come in a variety of fabrics and styles:
- Leather or faux leather leggings – Pair these with black boots for an edgy vibe.
- Thick knit leggings – Try black leggings in a chunky textured knit for warmth.
- Stirrup leggings – Leggings with stirrups under the feet create a sleek fitted look.
- Ribbed leggings – Go for leggings with thick, insulating ribbed panels.
- Fleece leggings – Fleece-lined leggings add an extra layer of softness and warmth.
Socks
You can also keep your legs warm by layering socks over black tights. Some sock options that work with black dresses and tights include:
- Over-the-knee socks – Choose chunky knit socks that hit above or at the knee for a cute look.
- Patterned socks – Fun patterns and textures like Fair Isle or cable knit add visual interest.
- Ribbed socks – Socks with thick ribbed cuffs help seal in warmth.
- Fleece-lined socks – Soft fleece lining makes these extra insulating.
- Boot socks – Pair rugged boot socks over tights with black booties or short boots.
Stockings
Sheer black stockings allow you to cover up while still showing a bit of skin. Consider these stocking styles:
- Sheer black pantyhose – For an elegant look, pair with black pumps or booties.
- Fishnet stockings – Add edge with bold, open-weave fishnet stockings.
- Backseam stockings – A retro back seam gives these a pin-up vibe.
- Lace top stockings – Peeking lace tops lend a romantic touch.
- Thigh highs – Held up with garter belts, these are sexy and stylish.
Boots
Knee-high or over-the-knee boots in black leather or suede beautifully complement a black dress while keeping legs covered. Some boot styles to try:
- Over-the-knee flat boots – Elongate your legs with these sleek thigh-high boots.
- Block heel knee boots – A block heel is comfortable while adding some lift.
- Pointed toe boots – Pointy toe ankle or knee boots have a slimming effect.
- Slouchy boots – Casual slouchy boot shafts work with daytime dresses.
- High heel boots – Make a dramatic statement with stiletto-heeled boots.
Booties
Ankle booties are another cold weather footwear option that work beautifully with black dresses. Go for these bootie styles:
- Black leather booties – Smooth leather or suede booties never go out of style.
- Lug sole booties – Lug soles add traction and a rugged vibe.
- Chelsea booties – Their elastic side gores make Chelsea booties easy to slip on.
- Chunky heel booties – Shorter block heels are comfy while giving you some lift.
- Pointed toe booties – A pointed toe lengthens the look of your legs.
Black Tights and Boots Outfit Ideas
Combining black tights with boots is an easy go-to look with a black dress in winter. Here are some chic outfit formulas to try:
- Oversized sweater dress + black tights + knee high boots
- Bodycon midi dress + sheer black tights + ankle booties
- Long sleeve wrap dress + fleece-lined tights + flat over-the-knee boots
- Skater dress + ribbed leggings + lace-up combat boots
- Off the shoulder mini dress + fishnets + block heel booties
Other Leg Warmers
In addition to tights, leggings and socks, you can also warm your legs while wearing a black dress with these accessories:
- Knee high socks – Slouchy over-the-knee socks add a casual touch.
- Leg warmers – Big, slouchy leg warmers trap heat.
- Fleece-lined leggings – Soft fleece lining makes leggings extra warm.
- Blanket scarf – Wrap a large blanket scarf around your lap and legs.
- Thermal underwear – Wear thin thermal leggings or long johns underneath your dress.
Bare Legs
If you want to bare your legs in a black dress during winter, try these tips to stay warm:
- Apply moisturizer – Well-moisturized skin better retains heat.
- Spritz legs with rosewater – The cooling effect constricts blood vessels.
- Use leg bronzer or shimmer oil – Cosmetic products give the illusion of warmth.
- Wear heat-trapping pantyhose – Ultra-sheer pantyhose add a hint of coverage and warmth.
- Go for above-the-knee length – show less skin with a midi or knee-length style dress.
Conclusion
Wintertime doesn’t have to mean packing away your favorite black dresses. With so many options like tights, leggings, boots and booties, you can stylishly cover up your legs while staying cozy and warm. The key is choosing leg coverings in temperature-regulating fabrics like wool, cashmere and fleece. With the right layers and accessories, your legs will stay toasty without sacrificing an ounce of style.