Photo: Jupiterimages/Pixland/Getty Images
Wearing skirts and dresses in the fall and winter can be a bit too breezy. While most of today's tights are nylon, cotton or microfiber, you can find warm and cozy wool tights to keep your legs toasty on the coldest days. Wool doesn't have to be itchy, and you'll find good-quality wool tights are soft, comfortable, and remarkably durable.
Types
The type of wool makes a significant difference in the texture and comfort of your tights. If you're not terribly sensitive to itchiness or you're willing to slip a pair of microfiber or nylon tights under wooly ones, you can opt for less-expensive and sturdier wools. These wools typically don't specify the breed of sheep. You'll also find merino wool tights, like the Wolford wool tights. These tights are soft against your skin, and well-tolerated, even if you have sensitive skin. Girls with tender thighs might also consider cotton-lined wool tights.
Style
Finely knit wool tights look like other heavy, opaque tights. They are thicker than most tights, but are wearable with many casual or professional styles. Rib-knit tights are another flattering option, as the ribs add stretch and long, subtle vertical lines down your legs. Cable knits, like Donna Karan's knit wool tights, are often knit with heavier weight wool, adding both playful details and bulk to your legs. These tights are adorable and suitable for casual wear.
Care
Treat your wool tights in much the same way you would your other fine intimates. Wash them alone, by hand. Use lukewarm water with a wool-wash product or gentle shampoo. You may add a small amount of hair conditioner to the rinse water to soften your wool tights. Roll in a clean towel to remove excess water, then hang or lay flat to dry. Some wool tights may be machine washable on gentle in cold water, but you will likely find that your tights last longer and maintain their shape better if washed by hand. The best wool tights are expensive and deserve the gentlest care you can offer.
Drawbacks
There are a few flaws to wool tights. Wool is less elastic than modern synthetics, particularly with long hours of wear. You may find that your wool tights sag over the course of the day, particularly on your tush. While this isn't terribly noticeable, you might re-think the pencil skirt and wool tights combo. You can reduce sag with a silk, nylon or satin slip under your skirt or dress, or try wool tights with a bit of microfiber for added stretch.
