Tights are probably the most versatile form of hosiery

Aesthetic reasons: Tights can be very slimming, particularly black tights. In fact, if you wear a pair of opaque black tights with a pair of black heels, what you get is instantly longer, sleeker pins. Furthermore, there are many styles of 'control' tights available on the market today which hold in your stomach or thighs to control wobbles and give you a more streamlined look. This is perfect if you have a close-fitting outfit to wear but don't have time to tone up in the gym. They keep you warm: If, like me, you still want to be able to wear skirts and shorts in the winter months, a cosy, woolly pair or tights is an absolute must. Tights can be just as warm as a snug pair of trousers as they insulate you and increase the temperature around your feet. If the day is particularly cold, you can add a pair of socks under some boots as well to create a further layer of protection against the cold. Health purposes: This is a lesser-known effect of tights, but they have been shown to be beneficial in preventing the onset of varicose veins. Many women wear special tights during pregnancy as it has been estimated that around 30 per cent suffer from varicose veins during this time. Tights help reduce circulation problems, which can prevent the swelling of veins when blood flow breaks down within them. Also, because tights promote blood circulation they can also help with the pain associated with conditions such as leg ulcers. Versatility: Lastly, it is true to say that there is a pair of tights out there to suit every style. If you want to go for elegant, then you can choose sleek black tights or perhaps a ribbed, patterned style with a fitted pencil skirt. On the other hand, if you have an adventurous streak then the choice of coloured, patterned, distressed or fishnet tights open to you is practically limitless. It would be impossible to list all the kinds of tights available here, but there are many online stores now specialising in hosiery which offer the kind of variety and price you won't find from high-street stockists.