History of Colorful Tights: From Functional Wear to Fashion Statement

poster presenting history of colorful tights - girl wearing colorful print tights, next to her woman wearing blue tights, and in the right corner woman wearing pink tights with dots

Few fashion pieces have such a rich and interesting history as tights – especially colorful ones! They started humbly as functional garments protecting legs, and after some time, they became accessories that could help people express their style. Now, fall and winter outfits don’t feel the same without them. Let’s dive into the fascinating and captivating history of colorful tights. Because who said colorful fashion cannot teach you anything? 😉

The Beginning of Pantyhose – Functionality Over Fashion

Leg coverings started their journey in ancient times (yes, really!). Later on, in the Middle Ages, pantyhose were worn by both males and females, mostly to give an extra layer of protection from cold. These early versions of tights were made mostly from materials such as linen or wool, and they had very sad shades – beiges, greys, blacks.

Then, in the Renaissance era, tights became trendy among European men, showcasing wealth and status in muted shades and glossy fabrics. They were still functional, but they also received another role – a decorative element added to an attire.

woman wearing blue colorful tights on the yellow background

Shift: History of Colorful Tights in Women’s Fashion

In the 18th and 19th a revolution happened – tights stopped being the part of masculine attire and women started wearing them. Men’s fashion dived more into pants, and women took over pantyhose and stockings. They were worn under skirts and dresses, serving both practical and decorative functions.

Colors were still limited to neutrals, but materials were expanding, offering a wider and wider range of choice. Soon enough, more vivid colors were introduced, too.

The Colorful Revolution

In the 1960s, a designer named Mary Quant presented a collection focused on vibrant leg wear, featuring lots of vivid pantyhose and stockings. It inspired women to be bolder and experiment with more colors than beige and grey on their legs.

This significant change was possible because of the invention of nylon in 1930, which became one of the most frequently used fabrics to produce tights. Bright colors, geometric patterns, and playful experiments marked this era.

From the 1980s to Modern Times

In the 80s, everyone wanted to stand out. This period celebrated individuality and vibrancy, offering more and more vivid choices in the colorful tights department.

Fitness trends also had a part in this time, featuring bright and fun sporty attires, including leggings or althetlic pantyhose. These years make us all feel a little nostalgic, remembering neon shades and oversized clothing. Luckily, modern fashion still takes inspiration from these years!

Nowadays, colorful tights blend in vintage elements and fresh, modern pieces. From gentle pastel shades to fun and creative vivid colors, today’s multicolored tights offer a huge variety. Everyone can find exactly what they need.

Celebrities and influencers often use colorful tights to add a pop of color to their outfits, encouraging others to bravely use this fashion statement.

four women wearing colorful tights - white, pink, and yellow, with multicolored dresses showcasing the history of colorful tights

History of Colorful Tights: Today’s Appeal

Multicolored tights remain so popular because they combine functionality with trendiness so well. You can create magical, colorful outfits with them and look super feminine.

Moreover, pantyhose are a perfect accessory for colder seasons, adding a warm layer and a pop of color. Also, you can wear them in spring and summer, deciding on thin and sheer ones for a cute fashion addition. To find your perfect pair for each season, explore our Colorful Tights collection at Marysia’s Colorful Closet.

Fun Facts About Colorful Tights

  • Tights used to be considered a symbol of masculinity – in the Renaissance, bright pantyhose meant you were a wealthy and well-positioned man!
  • Hollywood influenced them – colorful tights worn by the characters of Gossip Girl or Audrey Hepburn’s black tights from Funny Face made pantyhose famous.
  • They broke the record: In 2010, a Japanese company created such unique and colorful tights that their value was estimated at 5000 $!

History of Colorful Tights: Final Thoughts

From their humble and practical beginnings to becoming one of the most vibrant fashion accessories, multicolored tights went a long way. They’ve decorated the legs of royalty and stars, and now they can be a part of your closet, too!

They still continue to evolve, becoming more and more popular to wear. So, why not add your story to this special history of colorful tights? Or maybe go a step further and add more colorful accessories – browse them and create pure, colorful magic with multicolored pantyhose as the star. Let your legs steal the show!

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