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The little black dress remains the classic go-to for cocktail parties, dates and evening events. Unless you want your LBD to fade into the fashion background, accessorizing is a wise choice. Hosiery quickly changes the look of a little black dress -- depending on the color, thickness and pattern of the tights, pantyhose or leggings you wear. Picking the right hosiery includes considering the type of event, the time of day and the weather.

Sheer Black

Sheer black hose look stunning with a black dress that hits above the knee. Look for ultra-sheer nylons that cast just a hint of black. These sheer hose look extra elegant with a back seam for a splash of retro style. Alternatively, sheer hose with a subtle black pattern of squares or lines adds a playful edge to this look. This style pairing is appropriate for any evening event, wedding -- or even a date.

Wear sleek, ultra-sheer black hose with a midcalf form-fitting dress and you're ready for a black-tie gala. Add a pair of stiletto heels or black pumps to the mix to lengthen your leg line and ensure that the sheer hose look suitable for a fancy affair.

Opaque Black

For ladies who like to cover up a little bit more, or when the whether is too chilly for sheer wear, black opaque hose combine utility with style. Opt for a thick, completely opaque tight for warmth and coverage. These tights pair with virtually any cut of little black dress, from full A-line skirts and curve-hugging minis to festive wrap dresses and mid-calf numbers.

Add a girlish, sweet finish with some ballet flats to make this outfit perfect for an afternoon meet-up or low-key evening out. Take the look to the next level by adding some black pumps or high boots for a polished, warm style appropriate for meetings or cocktails.

Nude Naturals

Nude hose with an orange undertone are no longer the stylish answer to bare legs. Instead, look for ultra-sheer nude hose that have very little color so the only evidence of hose is a slight shimmer on your leg.

These pantyhose pair with any little black dress in your wardrobe because they smooth out your legs and blend in with your natural skin tone. Ideally, pair your little black dresses and nude legs with some nude pumps or black stilettos to create the look of a lengthened, toned frame.

Brighten Up

Blacks and neutrals make LBDs appropriate for nearly any formal event, but tights in soft, inviting neutral colors lighten the ensemble and make your LBD work for daytime lunches, parties or a meeting. Dark gray, soft brown and rich dark berry colors all create a warmer palette for your LBD. Patterned tights -- such as black hose with black polka-dots and subtle woven patterns in cranberries and grays -- can also be worn for daytime playfulness.

Add some Mary Jane pumps and a structured blazer for a polished look that takes that evening LBD into daytime, as long as it hits to a few inches above the knee or longer. Avoid any shimmery, bright pastels, white or neon leggings that add volume to your legs and clash with the solid black of the dress.

References

Writer Bio

Sarah Vrba has been a writer and editor since 2006. She has contributed to "Seed," "AND Magazine," Care2 Causes and "202 Magazine," among other outlets, focusing on fashion, pop culture, style and identity. Vrba holds an M.A. in history with an emphasis on gender and fashion in the 19th century.

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