The Tights Denier Guide: How Sheer Do You Want to Go?
You’ve probably seen the denier number on a pair of tights—but what does it actually mean?
Put simply, denier tells you the weight and thickness of the yarn used to make the tights. The lower the number, the finer and sheerer they will usually appear. As the number increases, tights generally offer more coverage and warmth.
However, denier isn’t the whole story. Colour, fit, pattern and construction can all change how tights look when worn. Netted and fishnet tights work slightly differently, as their coverage comes mainly from the size and density of the weave.
Here’s our straightforward guide to choosing the sheerness, colour and coverage that work for you.
For a barely-there finish, look for tights between 10 and 20 denier.
These allow your natural skin tone to show through while giving your legs a smoother, more polished appearance. They’re ideal when you want your tights to complement your outfit without feeling too heavy.
Sheer tights aren’t only for warmer weather. A sheer black tight can soften an evening look, while nude shades offer a natural finish. Ivory, cream and other lighter colours can make an outfit feel fresh and modern.
Colour tends to be more noticeable at a lower denier because it creates a wash of colour over your skin rather than completely covering it. Choose a shade close to your skin tone for a natural effect or a contrasting colour when you want your tights to be seen.
Dot Drift 20 combines a sheer 20-denier finish with an all-over polka-dot pattern.
The soft Milk Veil shade—an off-white cream—offers something a little different from traditional black or nude tights. Wear them with a short dress or skirt to show off the pattern, or use them to add a subtle detail beneath a longer hemline.
Made in Italy using high-quality recycled fibres, they feature a cotton gusset and invisible reinforced toes. They also come in FSC-certified packaging.
Available in sizes 2–8, covering UK sizes 8–34.
Patterned and netted tights: it’s all about the design
Patterned tights don’t always fit neatly into a denier category.
Some are made using standard sheer or opaque fabric with a pattern woven or printed into it. Others, including netted and fishnet styles, use an open construction. With these designs, the size and density of the weave tell you more about the finished look than a denier number would.
A delicate floral net or fine fishnet can feel soft and feminine, while a larger or more graphic pattern creates a bolder look.
Smaller repeated patterns, such as dots and fine florals, are generally easy to style. Larger motifs and statement nets naturally attract more attention, so you can make them the focus of the outfit.
Patterned tights are also an easy way to give clothes you already own a different feel. Even a simple black dress, skirt or oversized blazer can look completely new with the right pair.
Floral Veil is a netted tight with an intricate floral design in Midnight Bloom.
The open construction allows your skin to show through, making the floral pattern stand out across the leg. It provides detail and impact without the solid coverage of an opaque tight.
Designed in Italy and made using recycled yarns, Floral Veil features a seamless nude brief, reinforced toes and a soft, comfortable stretch.
It also carries OEKO-TEX STANDARD 100 certification, meaning the fabric has been tested for harmful substances.
Available in sizes 2/3, 4/5 and 6, covering UK sizes 8–22.
Semi-opaque and opaque tights: 40 denier and above
From around 40 denier, tights begin to offer noticeably more coverage. Depending on the colour, yarn, fit and amount of stretch, some skin may still show through—particularly around the knees and thighs.
For a more solid, opaque finish, look towards 50 denier and above.
These tights are an obvious choice for autumn and winter, but they also work whenever you want more coverage or a strong, uninterrupted colour across the leg.
Black is the classic option, although burgundy, navy, chocolate brown and other rich shades can be just as wearable.
Comfort is particularly important with thicker tights. Flat seams, a breathable gusset and a well-designed waistband can make the difference between a pair you forget you’re wearing and one you spend all day adjusting.
Wander Weave 50 offers substantial coverage with a smooth, matte finish in Midnight Noir—a true, deep black.
Made in Italy using recycled polyamide, these 50-denier tights feature 3D shaping, flat seams, a breathable cotton gusset and a soft, flexible waistband designed to stay comfortably in place.
They also come in FSC-certified packaging.
Available in sizes 2–8, covering UK sizes 8–34.
Quick guide: which denier should I choose?
10–15 denier: Ultra-sheer and barely there. Ideal when you want the lightest possible finish.
20 denier: Sheer but visible, with your natural skin tone showing through. A versatile choice for everyday outfits, evenings and occasions.
30–40 denier: More coverage without looking too heavy. These often have a semi-opaque appearance.
50–60 denier: A stronger, more opaque finish with additional coverage and warmth.
80 denier and above: Thick, highly opaque and ideal for colder weather.
Netted and fishnet tights: Look at the size and density of the weave rather than relying on denier. A finer net will usually appear more delicate, while a larger or denser design will create a bolder effect.
Remember that denier is a useful guide, not a guarantee. Colour, construction and the amount of stretch across your legs can all affect how sheer a pair looks when worn.
Don’t forget about fit
Choosing the correct size is just as important as choosing the right denier.
Tights that are stretched beyond their intended size may appear sheerer than expected, feel less comfortable and be more vulnerable to damage. If you’re between sizes, check the individual size guide and consider the amount of coverage and stretch you prefer.
Dot Drift 20 and Wander Weave 50 are available in our inclusive size range from 2–8, covering UK sizes 8–34. Floral Veil is available in sizes 2/3–6, covering UK sizes 8–22.
Always check the size guide on the individual product page rather than relying only on your usual clothing size, as both height and hip measurements can affect the fit.
Ultimately, choosing tights comes down to how you want your legs—and your outfit—to look. Whether you prefer barely-there sheers, an intricate floral net or full opaque coverage, the right pair can completely change the finished look.
