Bare Elegance: Finding your perfect shade

At Heist, we know that finding the perfect shade of nude tights can be a daunting task. It is often frustrating to choose a hue that matches your skin tone, and it can be even more discouraging when shades are limited. But don't worry, we've got you covered.

In 2017 Heist launched The Nude Project, a global study aiming to answer one of the most crucial questions in the fashion industry: What is nude?

Having collected data from 100,000 women, we identified 1,000 unique skin tones that generated our 7 shades, so there’s an accurate match for every wearer. Whether you’re looking to match your skin tone, or go up a shade for a sun-kissed glow, The Nude is a flawless finish to any outfit; a guaranteed good pair day!

In this blog, we’ll guide you through a step-by-step process of finding the right shade for you.

Ready to make life a little smoother?

Step 1: Determine your undertone(s)

The first step to finding your shade is to determine your skin’s undertone. Undertones refer to the colours that are beneath the surface of your skin. They are typically categorised as cool, warm, or neutral. Knowing your undertone will help you choose the right shade of tights that will complement your skin tone.

The easiest way to determine which of our 7 shades is right for you? Our Nudes quiz! (quiz link). Designed to find your perfect pair, our quiz will match you to one of our shades.

Dare to bare? Take our quiz!

Alternatively, try the following to determine your skin’s undertone:

Check your veins:
Look at the veins on your wrist. If they appear blue, you likely have cool undertones. If they look green, you likely have warm undertones. If you can't decide whether your veins look blue or green, you may have neutral undertones.

Check your jewellery:
People with cool undertones tend to better suit silver jewellery, while those with warm undertones work well in gold. If both gold and silver look good on you, you may have neutral undertones.

Check your skin’s reaction to the sun:
People with cool undertones tend to burn easily and have difficulty tanning, while those with warm undertones tend to tan easily. If you're somewhere in between, you may have neutral undertones.

Step 2: Match your undertone to our shades

Once you have determined your undertone, you can match it to one of our 7 shades.

Cool Undertones: Try the 10 or 50 shades.

Rosy/Peachy Undertones: Try the 20 shade.

Warm Undertones: Try the 30, 40, or 70 shades.

Yellow/Olive Undertones: Try the 60 shade.

For some, tights can act as makeup for your legs. Our tights are seamless and buttery soft, designed to make you feel your best so you’re ready to take on the world. For those looking for a sun-kissed glow on those dreary days, match your shade, then try one shade up. Nothing beats the cold like a summer glow…real or not!

If you’re still unsure, take our quiz.

Conclusion

Identifying the right shade of nude may seem like a daunting task, but it doesn't have to be. By following these steps, we’ll help you find a seamless shade match. Uncover tights that will complement your skin and elevate any outfit. Bare elegance - guaranteed.

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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.