One of the biggest scams in the English language may be the term “nude.” It brings to mind the “flesh”-colored Crayon of decades past, a peach hue that definitively did not describe all skin tones, much less most skin tones, yet was audaciously marketed as doing so. (In fact, that same shade is now called “peach.”)
There’s a similar issue with purportedly nude-colored pantyhose, nylons, tights and the like. Nude for whom? Often, nylons that claim to be nude feature only one shade, a beige tone that only denotes nude coloring for white folks.
We’ve compiled a list of sheer nylons that actually feature shades that cater to all skin tones, with budget picks and splurge-worthy options that reviewers swear by. The investment is sure to be worth it, especially since many of these picks are not only delightfully soft and comfy, but are also surprisingly rip-proof.
And if you’re not yet a hosiery devotee? You may soon be. They help keep you warm in cold weather, make some folks feel more put-together in professional settings, give extra smoothing and concealing coverage, plus — crucially — can help prevent painful chafing in the thigh area. That’s downright versatile.
Read on for our favorite picks.
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A pair of stretchy, soft Nude Barre tights
Reviewers recommend getting one shade darker than what’s pictured on the screen to best fit your skin tone.
Promising review: “I normally have a hard time finding opaque tights that both match my skin tone and are available in my size. I debated for a while whether or not to order these tights, and I’m so happy I did! The shade is a realistic tone (no more pink dance tights) and I’m in the middle of the size range instead of being on the outer fringe. I can’t recommend these enough!!” — Anonymous
A pair of silky soft microfiber Hipstik hose
Promising review: “I was so tired of spending money on pantyhose that would rip, snag and not even match my legs. I found hipstik after researching the top rated pantyhose. After checking out their website and picking the color I thought would match me most,I was nervous I ordered the right color. When I received my order they were packed great, looked exactly like my skin tone, and were soft! I’m obsessed! I will definitely be using this site for all my pantyhose needs!!! Normally I don’t review, but these are the seriously the best!!!” — Alexis C.
A pair of sheer rip-resistant Sheertex tights
Promising reviews: “As a woman of color, I have a hard time shopping for sheer tights that would match my skin tone. This tights are the only ones I own this matches my skin color.” — Anne M.
“These are incredibly soft, comfortable, opaque enough to hide leg imperfections and rip resistant! So perfect! Within an hour of having them on, my dog’s collar got caught on the tights and when he pulled away I thought for sure they were ruined. Looked down to see there was BARELY a separation in the material. Like you have to look really closely to find it. Love these so much I ordered another pair for me and two for my mom. Say goodbye to awful pantyhose forever! These are truly worth every penny.” — Kira Wilson
A pair of shaping Nubian Skin tights specifically made for people of color
Promising review: “The best tights on the market!! I have been shopping for years and at the end of last year I finally found my dream tights.. I wanted support but darker shade of brown as well which no other brands do… Nubian skin 40 den last approximately 4 months, but of course u have to look after them.. hand wash only and careful with those false nails 😜 Thank you Nubian skin for these lasting and beautiful tights.” — Renata R.
A pair of seamless nude Heist tights created with the input of 100,000 women
Another UK-based company, Heist claims that they worked with 100,000 women to create seven shades of nude tights that offer the perfect match for a wide range of skin tones. In addition to their data-backed shades, Heist’s 18-denier nude hose are seamless, ensuring an extra-comfy fit, and promise not to sag, dig or roll. They’re available in U.S. sizes 2–20.
A pair of nude Sofsy tights crafted in Italy
Promising reviews: “Wore these with a cosplay so i could wear my leotard without being actually exposed and they covered me up great. Is opaque, but not enough to hide bright underwear, so if that matters, be mindful. The major thing tho is that it was super close to my skin tone and as a WOC/POC that’s not common to find. The only con is that they don’t stretch that well so I had to out them on carefully.” — Luna626
“These tights gave what they were supposed to give! Definitely a brown girls ‘nude’ tights and plus size friendly! Helped my look come together.” — Kandice Miller
A pair of mega-affordable nude hose
Promising reviews: “These are my favorite pantyhose! I reach for these time and time again. They are the most durable ones I own. They don’t roll down either! They look so natural that often people ask me if I’m wearing hose because they can’t quite tell.” — Clerkin
“I am so pleasantly surprised by these stockings! I thought decent stocking were a thing of the past, and picked these up to try. I wear stockings EVERY DAY and so do most of the women I know. These a perfect for my tastes. I already picked up 2 more pair & sent messages to friends as well. We have all been lamenting over the fact that stockings are hard to find, but when you do find them, they are so cheaply made. These tick all my boxes; sturdy construction, a decent amount of support, high waist & reinforced toes that are not totally obvious. I would be quite comfortable wearing these with sandals. Additionally, I love that these come in a variety of natural skin tones. I bought the Honey beige, and they are absolutely perfect. I know women who would be totally happy with the other shades. Well done, Target!! You have my pantyhose allegiance as long as you carry these in the same sizes and colors. Do not change a thing!!!” — Ms