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Best footless tights that come Noughties-approved
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As if we needed another excuse to delay our wardrobe clearout, the cyclical nature of fashion proves itself once again. Why? Because footless tights are in vogue, again.
The 80s-born, 00s-popularised tights are the height of statement hosiery. Adopting the form of traditional tights with a neat cut-off at the ankle, footless tights were never considered chic, but rather a kitsch partywear layer. Believe it or not, this is all changing. Whether you can support the revival or not? Well, that's your call.
Fashion will always be reluctant to let go of the past. In fact, we don’t believe it quite knows how to. The industry has a knack for recycling outdated trends. Take the current nostalgia for all things Nineties that has manifested in the form of baggy denim, diamante detailing and cargo cuts for example. Gen-Z can’t get enough.
The ongoing fervour for 90s fashion continues to split opinion, but nothing is quite as divisive as Noughties style. Hence our surprise at seeing that footless tights are on the rise.
Young audiences were first confronted by footless tights courtesy of Disney circa 2006. Teen stars such as Miley Cyrus, Vanessa Hudgens, Jeanette McCurdy and Ashley Tisdale hit the red carpet debuting the ankle-grazing hosiery, typically paired with ballet pumps, oversized belts and a splash of sequins somewhere or other.
But if the kitten heel is anything to go by, it seemed inevitable that the footless tight would crop back up sooner or later.
In the world of dance, footless tights are not so much a trend, but an active staple piece. Throughout their careers, dancers have donned footless tights to the studio to perfect their clean lines around the ankle area. They are especially popular among lyrical, contemporary and ballet dancers. So, when Balletcore was encompassed by luxury labels last year, footless tights came along for the ride, spotted on the runway.
Alaia’s recent spring/summer 2024 collection showcased stirrup renditions teamed with sculpted leather ensembles, while a season earlier Marc Jacob’s autumn/winter 2023 show saw sheer shin-grazers storm the hallways of the New York Public Library.
Nensi Dojaka offered up a whimsy-goth take on the once-cheugy garment, injecting her signature girlish charm into the lacy stockings. As a result, footless tights were granted a sprinkling of sex appeal, taking a dramatic step away from their disco-ready reputation.
Up your underwear game and step out in a pair of statement footless tights for all to reminisce and coo over this winter.
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M&S 180 Denier Heatgen Footless Tights
M&S’ 180 denier footless tights are designed with winter in mind. The insulating leg warmers offer premium technology to ensure the cosiest of experiences when braving the outdoors.
Not only do they store body heat, but they further feature a sculpting high-waisted silhouette and a neat ankle cut-off to lengthen the legs.
Wolford + SIMKHAI stretch-mesh jacquard Leggings
Free People Chained Down Footless Tights
Amp up your evening attire with a pair of chained footless tights that are embellished with all-over glitter. This edgy underlayer is adorned with rhinestones and offers an ultra-sheer accent to your chosen outfit. With a flared-out silhouette and sultry fishnet fabrication, you’ll be sure to capture attention with this style.
Wolford Velvet 66 Capri Footless Tights
Falke Pure Matt 50 DEN Women Leggings
Available in a myriad of tempting tones, Falke’s footless tights offer supreme fluidity on the dancefloor. The elegant matte tights are made from a sustainable yarn composition and boast a breathable fit. Finely knitted fibres and velvety flat seams kindly caress the body, outlining your figure under any exterior garments.
Jaded Venice Lace Pedal Pushers
Gipsy Glitter Footless Tights
Bloch ContourSoft Footless Tights
Bloch has been dressing dancers for decades, so naturally the brand stocks a range of footless tights to browse. Revel in the superior softness of the ContourSoft footless tights which promise effortless movement and a streamlined look. A wide waistband supports the core while allowing for the leanest and cleanest lines.
Free People French Kiss Leggings
