5 eco-fashion stereotypes we’re here to challenge

The fashion industry has an undeniable duty to change. Both as a clothing brand and then individually as consumers, it is our responsibility to make sustainable choices from process to product to purchase.

The evolution of eco-fashion alternatives is well underway, a movement that we at Heist are fully committed to. However, we are conscious that eco-fashion, on the whole, has to battle against a number of stereotypes and misconceptions. In this article, we put those misconceptions to bed and outline the ways in which we are committed to eco-fashion as a true force for a better world.

1. Eco-fashion is only fabric deep
Our commitment to sustainable fashion goes beyond just the fabrics we use and how environmentally friendly they are. For us, responsible operation means disrupting the production line and reducing the rate at which products end up in land-fill.

Warehouse waste plays a huge part in this and the wider issue of fast fashion. That's why we've adopted a ‘make on demand’ stock replenishment approach. We only make what you want when you want it. When we get this right, it means there’s nothing left over, which means zero floating stock. Our warehouse is, of course, working to streamline and better all processes too. They’ve registered with the Sustainable Air Freight Alliance (SAFA) and have promised to launch a Carbon Foot Calculator by the end of 2022.

2. Eco-fashion is uncomfortable

We’ve all worn fabrics made from sustainable materials that have felt itchy and uncomfortable - and this has certainly added to the taboo that eco-fashion isn’t quite where it needs to be when it comes to wearability. We’ve gone above and beyond to source sustainable fabrics that genuinely look and feel incredible against your skin. Our Eco Lace Collection is underwear designed to keep you in your comfort zone and is made from 100% recycled and recyclable lace that is lightweight, smooth and silky-soft to touch.

SHOP ECO LACE COLLECTION

3. Eco-fashion is boring/ugly

When you think of sustainable clothing, what comes to mind? Something beige, hemp-based and lacklustre? Too often our assumption is that choosing an eco-wardrobe means choosing sustainability over style, and therefore making a compromise. We believe that when it comes to pioneering craftsmanship, design and artistry, brands and businesses do not, and should not, compromise. At Heist, we use the latest sustainable fabrics and technology hand in hand with the beautiful designs created by our all-female in-house design team, Lab12. We believe that our products should always be trade-ups, and never trade-offs. We make sustainability look and feel good.

4. Eco-fashion means less choice

Sustainable fashion options can feel limiting but we, and the wider industry, are working to change that. We launched our first recycled product. The Fishnet, in 2019 and since then we’ve launched a whole range of sustainable tight styles, including patterns, made from recycled yarns (recycled Polyamide, Q-Nova® by Fulgar and recycled Elastane, Roica Eco-Smart™). We chose to tackle tights first because out of all our products, they are most likely to end up in landfill.
Since then, we have launched The Eco LaceCollection, our first sustainable underwear line; the lace components of which are 100% recycled and 100 % recyclable - This marks another step towards our ongoing commitment to reduce our environmental impact and use of sustainable materials across all of our product categories.

SHOP TIGHTS

5. Eco-fashion is greenwashing

‘Sustainable’ has been a buzzword in the fashion industry for some time now, so how do you spot the difference between the virtue signallers and the genuinely eco-conscious brands? There is no easy answer to this, however, the ways in which we are trying to navigate this space is through transparency. Today, we are focusing on the areas that will have the biggest immediate positive impact. There’s more to do, and we are determined to do better and be better.

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In a world overflowing with choice, finding styles that truly suit you (and feel amazing) can be a challenge. The same goes for tights. Tights can be worn in many ways. You can layer them under clothes or wear them as a statement piece. They come in every shape, color, and style you can think of. So, how do you know which ones will look best and when to wear them?

While we can’t make the decision for you, we can share a few tips to help you find your perfect pair, and how to make the most of your Heist Tights.

Sheer to Opaque: How a Plain Black Tight Can Save the Day

Classic and timeless for a reason, a black tight is the ultimate wardrobe essential. Perfect under skirts or trousers for warmth and comfort, or paired with a mini skirt and boots for a night out, black tights are the unsung heroes of any outfit.

Heist Tights are known for their lasting wear and flawless finish. No digging, rolling, snagging, bobbling, or sagging - just smooth, sculpting comfort, whatever the denier.

When to Wear Sheer Tights

Sheer tights are perfect for warmer days or evenings out. When the weather’s mild - think autumn days with clouds and light showers - try The Fifteen or The Thirty-Five for a touch of coverage without overheating.

For a natural, second-skin look, The Nude, The Bare Nude or The Contour Nude add just enough warmth and confidence for in-between days. For nights out, pair your sheer tights with a mini dress or skirt for a sleek, elegant look (and a little extra warmth on the way home).

When to Wear Opaque Tights

When temperatures drop, opaque tights are your best friend. Ideal for work events, monochrome outfits, or those freezing mornings when you need an extra layer, our go-tos are The Sixty, The Eighty, and The 125. They deliver warmth, coverage, and polish in equal measure.

Stylist and long-time Heist friend Aimée Croysdill says:

“I always love a monochrome look - it feels chic and fashion-forward. Sticking to a single shade makes a simple but strong statement.”

How to Wear Colours and Patterns

Whether you’re drawn to bold prints, subtle textures, or unexpected hues, colour and patterned tights instantly elevate an outfit and add depth to your look. From timeless classics to modern statement pieces, Heist Tights make experimenting with colour and pattern effortless and endlessly wearable.

Lace Tights

Once seen as daring, floral tights have become a staple. They’re perfect for nights out or layered under long skirts. We love styling them like socks - peeking out from ballet flats or pumps - or making them the star of the show with a mini skirt and heels. Go classic in Black, or bold in Vintage Ivory - especially chic for brides-to-be.

Polka Dot Tights

A timeless favourite. Our Polka Dot (or Spot Tights) have been top of the hosiery drawer for years. Simple, reliable, and endlessly versatile, they come in multiple colours to suit every outfit and occasion. Available in classic Black, or refreshed in rich Burgundy or Vintage Ivory.

Simplistic but Bold Patterns

Transitioning from plain tights to patterns doesn’t need to be intimidating. With tights now recognised as both a practical essential and a fashion statement, we’ve designed pairs that make the switch effortless.

The Fine Line – Empowered yet subtle. A delicate upgrade from your usual sheer tights, offering a hint of difference that’s wearable for every day.
The Oversized Leopard – Bold and fashion-forward. Designed in collaboration with Aimée Croysdill, this reimagines a classic leopard print into something chic and sophisticated. Aimée recommends pairing it with your favourite LBD for coverage with a stylish edge.
The Overknee – The mini skirt’s best friend. Understated yet playful, this design adds a twist to a simple outfit—best paired with heels.
The Fishnet – A true classic. Season after season, The Fishnet remains a go-to for adding texture and interest to dark, monochrome looks. Try it in Chocolate Brown for an on-trend alternative to black.

Building an Outfit Around Tights

We’ve all had those moments when you love one piece but can’t build the outfit around it. Tights can be the solution. Pairing boots with dresses and tights is one of our favourite go-to formulas - it’s easy, stylish, and endlessly adaptable.

Chocolate Brown Tights and Bodysuits

Neutral tones and soft “colourful neutrals” have taken centre stage in recent years. Right now, rich browns and hot chocolate hues are trending as chic alternatives to black. This autumn, we’ve been pairing a Chocolate Brown Secondskin bodysuit with black suit trousers, jeans, and skirts.

Burgundy Tights

Another colour we can’t resist? Burgundy. Worn beautifully by Isabella Wei at our launch dinner for The Perfect 10 Collection (in collaboration with stylist, Aimée Croysdill), burgundy tights can be either a standout feature or a subtle accent. We love The Sixty for everyday wear, and The Eighty as temperatures drop.

An unexpected but beautiful combination we’ve been loving is powder blue and burgundy.

“Burgundy pairs well with black, grey, white, or tonal colours - but this season’s hero pairing is burgundy with baby blue,” says Croysdill. “Ground it with black or white so it stays fresh and cool - not too sweet.”

So, How Do You Choose?

Start with the basics. If there’s a colour or trend you’re curious to try, tights are the perfect (and affordable) way to experiment. Your favourite all-black outfit can instantly feel new with a pop of burgundy, chocolate brown, or powder blue.

If you’re dressing for functionality, work backwards from your needs. Ask yourself:

How formal is the occasion?

Will sheer or opaque tights suit best?

Will you be inside or outside?

Do you want a pop of colour, or to keep it simple?

The options are endless - but that’s part of the fun. Tights are a chance to refresh your wardrobe with layers that feel good and look amazing, no matter the season.