In the ever-evolving landscape of fashion, trends come and go, capturing the attention of style enthusiasts around the world. One such trend that has recently taken center stage and dominated social media platforms is the resurgence of red tights. Contrary to the assumption that this surge is solely attributed to the holiday season, a deeper dive into fashion data reveals a more nuanced and sustained interest in the vibrant hue.
According to databutmakeitfashion, a prominent fashion data Instagram account, searches for the term “Cherry Red” witnessed a staggering increase of nearly 300% throughout the course of 2023. This surge in searches aligns seamlessly with the prevalence of the color across Instagram and TikTok feeds, dispelling any notion that the trend is merely a seasonal fad.
Delving into Google data further substantiates the growing fascination with red tights. While it’s not uncommon for searches related to “red tights” to spike during December, the year 2023 witnessed a distinctive shift in search patterns. In the UK, both “red tights” and “red stockings” experienced heightened search volumes in December 2023, with an 82% increase in searches for “red tights” compared to December 2022. The term “red stockings” exhibited an even more remarkable surge, recording a 120% increase in searches compared to the previous year.
The trend is not confined to the UK alone; Pinterest data reveals a substantial surge in searches for “outfits with red tights.” The figures, indicating a remarkable 614% increase since September, emphasize the widespread and sustained appeal of red tights. In the United States, searches for “red tights” surged by 355%, highlighting the trend’s global resonance.
The resurgence of interest in red tights extends beyond the festive season, emerging as a noteworthy and enduring fashion trend that has captivated social media users worldwide. Post the Spring/Summer 2024 fashion season, colorful tights have experienced a notable resurgence, with red tights and stockings, in particular, taking the fashion spotlight.
The choice of red as a dominant color in fashion holds more significance than a festive association. According to Emily McCarthy, a color expert at WGSN, the popularity of red signifies passion, allure, and bold femininity. As fashion evolves, consumers are shifting away from emotionally charged dressing, returning to neutral styles that exude timeless elegance. WGSN, a trend forecasting company, even predicted this shift by naming “Vivid Red” as the key color of 2024, describing it as both stimulating and emotionally rich.
The allure of red extends beyond its energetic and straightforward aesthetic. The concept of “main character energy” has gained traction in the fashion world, encouraging individuals to embrace a sense of confidence and individuality. This shift is exemplified by the trending hashtag #APopofRed on Instagram and TikTok, contributing to the elevation of the Modern Academia trend – contemporary school-inspired fashion. Esteemed brands such as Givenchy, Tibi, and Attico have showcased their endorsement of this trend on fashion runways, solidifying its influence.
Moreover, the increasing cost of living has played a role in influencing this trend, according to Emily McCarthy. Red tights and stockings offer women an affordable yet impactful way to refresh their style, providing a youthful and optimistic touch. The brightness of red serves as an energizing force, motivating individuals to persevere through challenges. In essence, #APopofRed conveys a powerful message: “We can do it.”
Oscar Lund-Hansen, Co-founder and Creative Director of Socksss, a popular Swedish sock brand among Gen Z, shares insights into the psychology of color. He notes that red is a color that makes individuals stand out while imparting a sense of energy. What one wears has the power to instill confidence, and people are seeking a bit of self-love in the current landscape, where motivation is more crucial than ever.
The trend of red tights has gained substantial support from IT Girls such as Hailey Bieber, Dua Lipa, and Kendall Jenner. This endorsement from influential figures further propels the trend into the spotlight. The prevalence of red tights is not limited to celebrity endorsements; it has permeated high fashion as well. Red tights have been prominently featured in the Pre-Fall and SS24 collections of renowned brands, including Victoria Beckham, Proenza Schouler, and the FW23 collection from Vivienne Westwood, Gucci, and POSTER GIRL.
If you find yourself intrigued by this trend, consider incorporating red tights into your wardrobe. Below are some outfit suggestions to seamlessly integrate this vibrant and dynamic accessory into your personal style. Embrace the energy, confidence, and individuality that red tights bring to the forefront of the fashion scene, making a bold statement in every step you take.
