Finding the right pair of tights
Fit, Size & DEN in Sheer Tights, Nylons and Nylon Stockings
If you're looking for the perfect pair of tights – whether sheer tights, nylon tights, or classic nylons – in the end, one thing always matters most:
The fit.
A pair of tights can shine beautifully – but if they slip, dig in, or feel tight, they simply won’t feel right.
Over the past few years, I’ve worn hundreds of tights and nylon stockings – modern styles, vintage nylons, delicate 15 DEN sheer tights, and opaque versions.
Here’s what really matters.
1. Tights or Nylon Stockings – What Are You Actually Looking For?
Many people simply type “nylons” into Google.
What they often mean is:
Sheer tights
Nylon tights
Nylon stockings
Hold-ups
The difference:
Tights / Sheer tights
→ One piece, from the waist down to the toes.
Nylon stockings / Stockings
→ Worn with garter belts or as hold-ups.
In my shop, you’ll mainly find delicate tights – complemented by selected nylon stockings.
2. Finding the Right Size in Tights
The most common question is:
“What size do I need in sheer tights?”
What matters:
Height
Hip measurement
Waist measurement
Leg length
Especially with very fine nylon tights (15 DEN or 20 DEN), elasticity is lower than with opaque tights.
My tip:
If you're between two sizes and choosing very sheer tights, go for the larger size. Too much tension increases the risk of runs.
3. What Does DEN Mean in Tights and Nylons?
The DEN value (denier) describes the fineness of the yarn.
In my shop, I’ve sorted sheer tights and stockings by DEN – you’ll find them easily in the menu.
Here’s what you can expect from different denier levels:
10–15 DEN – Very sheer
→ Classic nylons, elegant sheer tights
20–30 DEN – Lightly sheer
→ Everyday & business wear
40–50 DEN – Opaque
→ Autumn & winter
60+ DEN – Very opaque
→ Warm & durable
A 15 DEN sheer tight looks especially delicate and glossy.
Opaque tights (40 DEN+) are more stable and more forgiving if sizing isn’t perfect.
The lower the DEN value, the more important the correct fit becomes.
You can also search for “Spring,” “Summer,” “Autumn,” and “Winter” in my shop – matching DEN levels for the perfect tights or stockings will be shown automatically.
4. Why Do My Tights Slip Down?
Typical reasons:
Size too large
Waistband sits too low
Low elastane content
Very smooth clothing worn over them
Vintage nylon tights made from older yarns such as perlon feel different from modern blends – softer, but less stretchy.
Sometimes the only way is to try them and develop a feeling for your nylons. Every skin is different – and everyone loves different types of nylons. 💜
5. Why Do Sheer Tights Dig In?
If tights dig into your skin, it’s usually because of:
Size too small
Very fine yarn (15 DEN)
High tension around hips or waist
Well-fitting nylon tights should feel like a second skin.
6. Glossy or Matte Tights?
This also influences how they feel and look.
Glossy nylons / sheer tights
Emphasize the leg line
Look more elegant
Especially popular in 15–20 DEN
Matte tights
More subtle
More suitable for everyday wear
Often available in higher DEN values
Personally, I love crepe sheer tights in 20 DEN.
For me, they are perfect for everyday wear because crepe yarn is less prone to runs than, for example, polyamide.
(If you'd like to learn more about the different yarn types, feel free to read my blog article about materials here.)
7. Buying Tights Online – What to Look For
When buying tights or nylon stockings online, pay attention to:
Clear sizing information
DEN value
Material description
Detailed photos
In my shop, you’ll mainly find fine sheer tights and special nylon tights – many of them vintage or rare pieces – complemented by selected stockings, both vintage made from “real nylon” (polyamide) and other yarn types.
I wish you lots of joy while shopping,
Your Lily 💜
👉 Here is my current selection:
https://www.lilylovesstockings.com/shop
