Leggings and tights are similar types of shapewear primarily worn by women, with both designed to enhance the appearance of the body. They are often made from similar materials and come in a variety of colors and patterns. However, there are some key differences between the two.
Key Takeaways
- Tights are made from a thinner material than leggings, requiring additional clothing to be worn over them.
- Leggings are generally ankle length, while tights often cover the entire foot.
- In countries with colder climates, leggings are often made from woolen material for added warmth.
Leggings, as the name suggests, are tight legwear that covers the legs and typically extends from the waist to the ankles. In some cases, they may be longer and cover the entire foot. They are commonly worn by women, although men also wear leggings at times.
Tights, on the other hand, are worn from the waist down and cover both legs and feet. They are made from thinner, more flimsy material than leggings, which allows the skin to show through. As a result, tights cannot be worn on their own and must be paired with a short skirt or another lower garment.
One source of confusion between the two garments is that leggings are sometimes referred to as tights in the United States. Additionally, in countries with cold climates, leggings may be made from woolen material for added warmth and comfort. In India and some other Asian countries, women have started wearing leggings in place of traditional salwars under kurtis.
