Nude Hosiery for Women of Color

My blog isn’t normally the place to broadcast my political views (it’s all about the nylon love here), but I will admit that one of my pet peeves is “nude” or “flesh-toned” hosiery. I have no problems with the actual color of the hosiery, of course. My issue is that “nude” or “flesh-toned” shades tend to be equated with a certain skin color…one that is certainly not “nude” for everybody.

Because of that, I’ve made it my little side project to find “nude” hosiery that works for darker skinned women, and my search has brought me to several brands that I’m very excited about.

Let’s start with pantyhose. My new job has me wearing something on my legs almost everyday. For business purposes, I believe tights and pantyhose are infinitely more professional than gartered stockings, primarily because the fantasy of showing off a welt or garter bump is considerably less exciting when your boss may see it. Similarly, I believe a sheer look is more professional than colors or patterns.

With that in mind, the Pretty Polly Naturals line from MyTights gets two thumbs way, way up from me. Available in 5 and 8 denier versions, these tights are made to match your skintone, giving a barely there look. In addition, the sheer denier makes them exceptionally cool for hot and humid summer days. I own the 8 denier Naturals in Bronze, and they blend so well with my legs that I didn’t even notice they’d laddered until I took them off. With four colors available and prices starting at $7.50, I’m confident most women can something to like here.

However, if you can’t be swayed from wearing stockings, then may I suggest the Marissa sandalfoots from Stockingirl? Ultrasheer and ultrashiny, these 100% nylon, 15 denier stockings have a silicon wash that makes your legs look freshly oiled.

I own these in the South Pacific shade, and both I and Newboy were amazed how well they blended with my skintone. It literally looked like I had nothing on my legs. These stockings are extremely comfortable, but definitely fit true to size. I’d recommend consulting the size chart, or even calling for assistance if this is your first time ordering 100% nylon hose. At only $18.99, I believe the Marissas are a bargain, especially if you wear stockings everyday.

Finally, there are some days you just have to wear fishnets, but don’t feel like drawing the kind of attention of a pair of traditional black nets would bring. Most “nude” fishnets are much too light for me, therefore I was happy to find that Secrets in Lace offers fishnet tights in the color “coffee.” At $26.99, these are a bit pricey, however they blend well (giving subtle texture to my legs), are very comfortable, and quite long-lasting.

As always, if you have a favorite “nude” brand or any comments or questions on this post at all, I’d love to hear from you.