What Color Hosiery to Wear with a Black Dress?

When you're forced to choose between a salad fork and a dinner fork, it's time to keep your hosiery basic and classic. For a formal dinner, a night at the symphony or an upscale after-hours business meeting, slip into hose that match your skin tone or opt for sheer black hose that complement your little black dress and allow your skin to show through. Remember to go with a seamless variety if you're sporting strappy heels or peep-toe pumps. Nobody wants to see the stitching on your reinforced toes.

If you're headed to a somber event, such as a memorial service, funeral or visitation, tone down your hosiery. Solid black pantyhose works well for a formal gathering on a warm day, as it elongates the black look while keeping you cooler than wearing dress slacks. Pair the hose with a matte-finish black pump or flat. If you must add some color to your look, do so with metallic jewelry or a delicate dark-hued scarf.

Black patterned hose scream evening wear. If you're headed to a hot concert, choose black pantyhose with a funky design, such as rose vines or hounds tooth. Or give your legs a sexy glow by choosing nude hose with a glossy sheen. Just steer clear of white hose with your little black dress. The light color will make your legs look extra thick peeking out from the black hem of your dress. Finish the night-out look with head-turning shoes. Metallic stilettos or colorful pumps that coordinate with your outfit will add a flirty vibe to your style.

Give your little black dress a dose of holiday cheer by donning red, silver or gold pantyhose. These bold choices pair well with equally glamorous metallic clutch purses and shiny patent-leather heels. Pick a style that offers comfort and smooths your tummy, such as control-top pantyhose. Leave the heavy-duty body shaping and built-in girdle styles in the lingerie drawer if you want to dance comfortably all evening long.