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After years of neutrals dominating fashion, things took a turn for the more extreme in 2023 when bold shades became the standard. Between Valentino and Barbie, hot pink was hard to escape, while highlighter yellow became fall’s most unexpected ‘It’ color. And while some color trends came and went, one was and still is one of the year’s hottest hues.
Kate Middleton and Sophie Turner kicked off the year in all-red ensembles, which were almost immediately followed by cherry-inspired looks from Jennifer Lopez, Eva Longoria, Rihanna, and Hailey Bieber. Red is (sorry) red-hot. And while monochromatic scarlett looks might be one of the most popular ways to rock the color, there’s one surprising yet far more subtle alternative that’s kind of perfect for holiday parties — and you can grab a pair starting at just $9.
Colorful tights have been a runway staple since 2022, with ruby pantyhose being the most common. And this year, they finally made their way into the mainstream with stars Gwyneth Paltrow, Kendall Jenner, Anya Taylor Joy, and Elle Fanning rocking the bold undergarment. On TikTok, you’ll find hundreds of videos showing how people are styling their statement tights with everything from classic LBDs to micro-shorts. As everyone’s quickly learned, red tights are the easiest and most affordable way to add a pop of color to an otherwise simple look. And given that we’re officially in holiday party season, red tights have quickly skyrocketed to my top fashion wishlist. They’re chic yet playful, low-key practical, and the simplest way to make any piece you already own a bit more festive.
“I’ve been wanting some red opaque tights that weren’t a tomato- or too-bright-red,” said one person of Frola’s $9 tights. “These are the exact shade I wanted [and] they fit perfectly,” they added, noting that “They are high quality, soft, [and] well made.” Another fan wrote that “the bold red is perfect for many occasions” and that they’re also “so comfortable to wear.”
But if you’re looking for a way to bring that same trendy touch to a more casual look, Hailey Bieber gave a masterclass in making red undergarments an everyday staple when pairing a black jacket, skirt, and her go-to Mary Janes with red tube socks.
Bieber’s cherry-red socks might’ve been small, but they were impactful with that touch of color adding a unique element to an otherwise all-black look. With one pair of socks, an outfit that could’ve been stylish but run-of-the-mill became far more interesting. And for winter, it’s one of the easiest (and warmest) ways to tap into the trend, making your favorite flats, close-toed heels, and Mary Janes a little more weather-appropriate.
Red undergarments might’ve been this year’s most unexpected trend, but this holiday season, it’s definitely the most wearable. Shop more chili-red tights and socks below.