A tribute to bad underwear

Photo credit: Universal Pictures

A show and tell of the knickers, and the stories, you *never * thought you’d share

Ok, so underwear isn’t top of mind right now. But *confession* I’m wearing it as I type and I’ll hazard a guess that you are too… We’re still putting it on every morning, taking it off every night and if we’re honest, apart from leggings and a tee, it’s basically the new workwear. So, we couldn’t help but wonder, what better time to reflect on the state of our knicker drawers?!

We’re all familiar with the common underwear issue; sexy = totally impractical and wildly uncomfortable vs. comfortable = alarmingly unattractive. And a magical hybrid between the two?! Doesn’t (currently…wink) exist.

Knowing this, we’ve spent the last six months working with 150 of you through our CO.LAB.2 initiative on what comes next and in the process, we’ve learnt A LOT about your knickers. These are the stories that inspired us to design better ones and were too good not to share. So, we thought we would host a little “show and tell”… Consider this a tribute to bad knickers, long may they be forgotten.

Question 1 - Kicking it off: worst knickers? And why?

It's got to be briefs for me. Controversial, I know. The lines just feel odd sitting on my butt cheeks. (Lara)

Those girl boxers with that button at the front – can someone explain why that button exists?! (Fran)

Lacy underwear because it is always SO SO SO itchy. I can’t bear it. (Reshma)

Thongs, obvs. They’re like flip flops…but not on your feet. (Louise)

Big, ruffle knickers. Move around too much and mess with clothing silhouettes. (Mae)

Anything that isn’t a thong. WHY? (Poorna)

Question 2 - Any underwear horror stories?

Yes! When I didn’t realise I had a pair of old underwear stuck down my trouser leg and they fell to the office floor. Argh, the memory is making me break out into a hot flush. I grabbed the underwear, ran to my desk and stuffed it into my drawer. (Reshma)

Lol, when I was wearing an seamless g-string and it completely snapped at the crotch. (Poorna)

When my see-through knickers flew from my washing line into my elderly neighbour’s garden. (Mae)

I once had a housemate who used to steal my knickers, so I started putting a coloured stitch in my labels (like the detective that I am) so I knew they were mine. (Rachel)

Plenty, but think they may be too risqué for this article! (Lara) Note: we are still convincing Lara to share…

Question 3 - Honestly…how long have you owned THAT pair?

I think I came out of the womb wearing these. (Poorna)

Erm, I really have no idea. Ok, ok, don’t judge me...but I think circa 2010. (Reshma)

I’ve been wedded to them longer than my husband (we’ve been married for 13 years). (Rachel)

About a year. (Mae)

Question 4 - What's the deal with colour?

Rainbow all the way for me. (Lara)

A sad collection of has-been’s (black, white, pink). I’m convinced my washing machine was sent to sap any drop of colour out of every pair I own. (Fran)

Just black. All black everything. (Reshma)

Rainbow! Especially keen on jewel colours. (Mae)

I like to think I’m open to an array of colours, but black wins every time. (Poorna)

Question 5 - And finally, would you rather… Bridget’s in ‘Bridget Jones’ Diary’ OR Kylie’s in ‘Spinning Around’?

Bridget. All. The. Way. (Louise)

Good old Bridge – she knew a good pair when she saw them! (Rachel)

Kylie’s gold numbers, no question. (Fran)

Is a Heist pair an option? (Sophie)

I’d have to say commando. (Poorna)

A huge thank you to all of our show and tell participants for so boldly telling the stories they thought they would *never* share. And for the sake of who's dignity, we changed names.

Got some stories or knickers that rival ours? Get in touch via email or social (@heiststudios), we would love to see them. And, of course, we promise to keep them anonymous.

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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.