I just love the fall…knee high boots are back in fashion, a crisp earthy fragrance is in the air and celebs are packing away their leggings for the season. But short dresses still reign supreme in this sorta chilly, but not yet freezing weather…what’s a fashionista to do? The answer: black tights.

I used to hate tights…they reminded me of my days in ballet class, hiking them up over my belly and barely being able to breathe. Now I appreciate them for their blemish and bulge reducing qualities. If your summer tan has begun to fade, but you still want to show off some shapely gams, consider black tights for your fall look. Here are a few ways to wear them:

Edgy

Gwyneth Paltrow (source)

Gwyneth looks every bit the part of a rockers wife/hip actress in her head to toe black ensemble. Her black tights keep this dark look from being broken up and adds extra drama.

Trendy:

Hilary Duff (source)

Paired with a cute silk pattern dress and knee high boots, Duff looks cute and trendy in her black tights. They keep this look fresh and young, but modest at the same time. No risk of flashing any naughties with these things on…

Classy:

Cate Blanchett (source)

Like with Gwyneth’s look, Cate keeps her black ensemble going by pairing her outfit with black stockings. Black stockings make a formal dress look even more formal, but be wary of what color you pair it with: for an effective and classy look, only pair black stockings or tights with earth toned or muted formal wear.

If you are looking for an inexpensive and effective way to punch up your fall look, head to the local drug store for this must have accessory.