Stylish or NSFW? Making the case for the return of the fishnet

This season it's all about holey hose

(AFP/Getty Images)

As the cold weather sets in so does fashion’s biggest question; when should you start wearing tights? For many it begins as soon as the sunbeams dwindle but even winter’s frostiest chill isn’t enough to persuade those in the bare leg brigade. If you’re looking for a happy medium though, how about the racy fishnet?

Tights are officially back in Vogue but with the fishnet comes the connotation of all things kinky. Once the reserve of ladies of the night it can be difficult to muster the gumption to pit your pins against a holey hose but thanks to a surge in designer refashioning, the fishnet is now a mainstream marvel for all to enjoy.

(Rex Features (Rex Features)

Last season saw Ashley Williams take oversized netting to the pins of almost every model with some serious bad girl ‘tude but even those at the more refined end of the scale took a fancy; take Simone Rocha’s cloud-like silhouettes that were bound in brace-like netting.

Unsurprisingly, hit was a hit this season too with Jeremy Scott leading the charge with knee high boots, leather miniskirts and a fetish for fishnet stockings. Here, they added edge to baby pink garbs and a rockabilly aesthetic.

The trend for keeping it north of the border stuck around too with Opening Ceremony opting for black netted long sleeves and high neck tops worn sans bra. While this option might be a tad extreme, not to mention nippy, donning a pair of fishnet tights is the easiest way to partake.

Yes, the deniers are back but wearing plain, opaque tights can leave things feeling a little vestal; instead break up your ensemble with a pair of fishnets peeking out underneath your hemline. The important thing to remember here is to keep your skirt of longer-length – to the knee or midi – otherwise, you run the risk of looking less classy and more tarty.

Topshop Braid Trim Midi Dress £89

ASOS Oversized Fishnet Ankle Socks £3

Wolford Twenties Tights, £27

Bluebella Fishnet T-Shirt, £26

Topshop Sporty Fishnet Tights £6.50