We’ve been following Julie Montagu for a while, both because of her awe-inspiring yoga prowess and her work in the media. And she’s just had quite the gig as the BBC’s royal reporter for the wedding everyone’s talking about: the one between Prince Harry and Meghan Markle on 19th May.

For the occasion, Julie reported from Windsor wearing none other than our wedding season essential: The Nude. We spent the day with Julie on set as we shot her wearing Heist for a special HELLO! magazine feature which was published in the UK on 21st May.

In between downward dogs and discussions on wedding guest etiquette, we got a glance into Julie’s schedule and an insight on how she has carved a life for herself in the UK.

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Julie wears The Nude. Photo credit: Gary Morrisroe

The Interview

Julie, we were in awe of your yoga moves at our recent photoshoot. Why did you choose to get into yoga?

After my fourth child was born, I was exhausted both mentally and physically, and I knew I needed to do something fast! So I went to my first Bikram yoga class, and in one day became obsessed with it! From Bikram, I started to then explore other types of yoga and fell madly in love with Vinyasa Flow yoga. And really, once I started on the yoga path, I became obsessed with how much yoga could give me energy, boost my mood and just make me feel better overall. I’m so passionate about yoga and all that it can do for you physically, mentally and spiritually.

When do you feel at your strongest, either mentally or physically?

I feel my strongest physically, mentally, and even emotionally when I’m breathing for my body rather than my body breathing for me, which is what it does all day long!

You made the transatlantic move from America to London. At what moment did you feel that the UK was truly home?

Hmmmm... This question makes my gut feel a bit tingly and weird! And I think it’s because as much as I love the UK and it’s where I live now (and probably for the rest of my life) my home will always be America.

At Heist, we love to see women making progress. Tell us about someone you think is ahead of the game in their field today…

Persia Lawson. Check her out. I wish I had had Persia in my life when I was dating, breaking up, not feeling good about my love life! But she’s here now and my 19 year old daughter can turn to her when she has her heart broken!

What does progress mean to you?

Failing. And learning from your failures, picking up the lessons learned and keeping moving forwards. That is progress.

Tell us about a project you’re currently working on (besides the Royal Wedding)...

I’ve just launched my Whole Self Yoga Teacher Training and Retreats, a programme I created for everyone who loves yoga as much as I do, but it’s not just about becoming a yoga teacher, or practising yoga. It’s more than that. I wanted to bring everything yoga has taught me to the table with a modern approach. So, my Whole Self is a lifestyle - unleashing the true, authentic you.

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Julie wears The Fifty. Photo credit: Gary Morrisroe

What’s a goal you’ve set yourself?

I have an endless number of goals.

Where do you see yourself 10 years from now?

Sailing around the world with my husband.

When faced with a challenge, what keeps you going?

My 4 kids.

Tell us about wearing The Nude… How would you style it for a summer occasion?

Hands down, The Nude is the greatest! It's totally invisible (it's called The Nude for a reason!), so I’d wear it with a short or long skirt, short shorts, a dress – anything! And we know British summers can be temperamental, so I’ll be wearing mine all summer long. Apart from during that one week of summer we do actually get - I’ll be in my bikini then!

How do you feel while wearing Heist?

Unstoppable. And I feel like my legs are looking good, too!

If there was an item of underwear you could change, what would it be?

I hate thongs - can we just get rid of them? I mean really, does anyone think they are comfortable?!

What are your top three tips for being the best wedding guest?

Killer hat (but not obnoxious), the biggest smile, and impeccable manners.

Any predictions for the Royal Wedding? Which British designer is your money on to design the dress?

I’m going with an American! Ralph Lauren. And I’m thinking a Royal tiara will feature, too, as a nod to Meghan’s new British family.

Any tips for Meghan as someone who, like you, has moved from the US to forge a new life in the UK?

Keep the American accent and stay the upbeat, optimist, high energy American that everyone loves.

The Quickfire

When you’re on the move:

…what song gets you motivated?
This Is Me by Keala Settle, from The Greatest Showman soundtrack.

…are you an early riser?
Yes!

…do you go headfirst, or do you work to a plan?
Headfirst.

…what do you always have on you?
My ’She needed a hero, so that’s what she became’ bangle.

…how do you feel?
Energised.

…where’s next?
Windsor Castle.

…who do you Instant Message?
My ‘Family’ group chat - 4 kids and my husband.

…what does your diary look like?
For the week of the wedding - CRAZY!

…on Instagram, who do you scroll to?
@Botanygeek

…what book do you take?
Recharge by Julie Montagu - I always have a copy in my backpack and give it out to someone I think might need it, whether it’s a taxi driver, flight attendant, or a new mom.

…what or who do you miss?
Corn on the cob (the real deal, I am from Illinois after all) and my mom.

Photo credit: Gary Morrisroe
Styling: Hope Lawrie
Hair and make-up: Beauty by Tahira

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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.