How opaque are 40, 60 and 100 denier tights?
40 denier is the lightest true opaque. It covers well but can show a little skin at the knee when you bend. 50 and 60 denier give a fuller black that suits most office and school wear. 80 and 100 denier look completely solid and feel noticeably warmer. Pretty Polly's 3D opaques are knitted to stretch evenly, which helps the colour stay even across the knee and thigh. If you are unsure, 60 denier is a reliable starting point. Black opaques also come in larger sizes, including Cette Dublin 60 Denier 3D Opaque Plus Size and Pretty Polly Curves 60 Denier Plush, grouped in Black Plus Size Tights.
Matt, velvet or satin: which finish?
A matt finish is the most understated and works for work and school. Velvet styles, such as Wolford Velvet De Luxe 50 and 66, use a soft, dense yarn that looks smooth and feels heavier on the leg. Satin finishes, such as Wolford Satin Opaque 50 and Charnos Satin 30, add a gentle sheen that reads as dressier in the evening. The finish affects how black the tights look in different light, so a satin 50 can look less solid than a matt 50. Wolford's Velvet De Luxe 66 Comfort Tights also have a wide comfort waistband, which helps if standard waistbands roll down.
Which black opaque tights are warmest?
Warmth comes from both denier and fibre. 80 and 100 denier tights are the warmest standard opaques. Above that, the Gipsy 200 Denier Thermal Cosy Tights and fleece-lined styles add extra insulation for cold days outdoors. Wool blends, such as Trasparenze Jennifer Wool and Wolford Merino Wool, give warmth with a softer, more natural feel. For more cold-weather styles, see Black Warm Winter Tights.
Are there recycled black opaque tights?
Yes. Several pairs here are made with recycled or lower-impact yarns. They include the Pretty Polly Eco-Wear 70 Denier, the Gipsy 30 and 50 Denier Eco Tights, Charnos Recycled The Opaque 40, the Charnos 100 Denier Tights with recycled nylon and the Wolford Aurora 70. They look and wear like standard opaques, so the choice comes down to denier and finish in the same way. Our Eco Tights collection includes these alongside other colours.
