Some seriously cold temperatures have already hit the Denver area, so if you haven’t already broken out a pair of tights then you can bet it’ll happen sometime soon. But why let basic black ones be your go-to when novelty legwear is such a big trend this season? If you’re looking for a fast and easy wardrobe update—especially with the holidays just around the corner—here are five ways to use legwear to give your look a sophisticated edge.

Spanx Tight-End Tights in Heart-To-Heart, $42, Two Sole Sisters

Patterns

From back seams to chevrons, patterned tights are an elegant addition to day or evening looks. They can take a basic black suit from ho-hum to chic or move a classic cocktail dress into sexy territory. These heart-patterned tights by Spanx not only have a lovely Deco-inspired pattern, but a built-in shaper that extends from the waist to mid-thigh ensures a smooth line. Spanx Tight-End Tights in Heart-To-Heart, $42; Two Sole Sisters, 1703 Pearl St., Boulder, 303-442-0404, twosolesisters.com

Color

Bold, vibrant color was one of the biggest trends on the fall 2019 runways. If you’re looking for inspiration, check out the colored legs that accented elegant jewel-toned dresses with floral motifs at Dries Van Noten, suiting at Max Mara, and feminine midi dresses with a 1930s flair at Rodarte. The trend was even highlighted in 5280‘s Fall 2019 fashion feature this past September, with a pair of shimmer red tights by Wolford. Over the holiday season, think of glossy red tights as the right way to either brighten up a classic neutral look or as part of a colorblock ensemble. Wolford Satin de Luxe tights in Red Rust, $75, wolford.com

Commando Floral Net stockings, $36, SOL Lingerie

Floral lace

Black floral lace was a major evening look at shows like Olivier Theyskens, Alexander McQueen, Valentino, and Akris. It’s a look that works equally well when applied to your legs, especially in a fishnet sprinkled with floral lace, as in this version by Commando. It’s the perfect combination of edgy and feminine. Commando Floral Net stockings, $36; SOL Lingerie, 3010 E. 6th Ave., 303-394-1060, solgirl.com

Polka Dots

Want another patterned option? Try polka dots for evening. If you’re thinking this will look a bit too young, check out the cheeky evening looks at the Saint Laurent show—sophisticated, ’80s-inspired disco dresses accented with polka dot stockings. This version by Canadian brand Rachel are made in Italy of 99 percent recycled nylon, making them both on-trend and environmentally friendly. Eco Polka Dot Tights (pictured at top), $17, en-us.fromrachel.com

Hanes Leg Boost in Barely Black, $12, Hanes

Sheer

If you’re going for a sheer stocking look, then pick an updated one with a whisper thin finish and some serious body benefits. Innovative nylon yarns give Hanes new Leg Boost line the ability to smooth cellulite (!) while also offering compression for increased blood circulation. Hanes Leg Boost in Barely Black, $12, onehanesplace.com