What are HeroPanels?

What do we mean by revolutionary shapewear?

Aside from the differences you can see and feel, the real revolution in our shapewear design is in what you don’t feel.

Meet our signature HeroPanels™: the bonded, laser-perforated shaping panels that work to give high performance compression whilst leaving you feeling totally comfortable.

When you’re wearing our shapewear, you’ll notice that even though you can feel strong, even compression, you don’t feel an elastic band-style squeeze. Instead, the garment feels like a second skin.

That’s all because of our HeroPanel™ technology, the membrane that sits in between the layers of fabric which mimics your fascia (which is the connective tissue that stabilises your muscles – in other words, your body’s own support system). Essentially, this unique membrane adapts to the shape of the things it comes into contact with; in this case, that’s the natural shape and movement of your own body, which is dictated by the fascia.

By strategically placing HeroPanels™ in specific anatomical areas, we’re able to make shapewear that slims and sculpts you exactly where you want it, without squeezing you unnecessarily for the results you’re after.

The more you wear the HeroPanels™, the more they relax in response to the shape, movement and temperature of your body. As a result, you end up with shapewear that is moulded to your body, which is why you feel less constricted than if you were to wear traditional shapewear.

We know what you’re thinking: surely a membrane just makes the garment thicker, and so just makes you sweat more?

In fact, it’s the opposite. If you turn your Heist shapewear inside out and take a closer look at the HeroPanels™ in the light, you’ll be able to make out tiny dots. Those dots are some of the 20,000 laser perforations designed to let your body breathe whilst the panels are doing all of this work.

Shapewear with high performance compression, that feels comfortable, that you don’t sweat in, and that looks good? We know it sounds too good to be true. But that’s what innovation and Lab12 is all about.

Shop The Shapewear Collection.

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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.