Lace tights not only bring that cozy, sexy boudoir feeling to the winter months - they help to break up the monotony of opaque tights as your go-to leg covering for chilly nights out. I recently bought a pair from Urban – about $9 – that are a fishnet lace, and at first I thought they were a little too S&M, but quickly got over it after receiving compliments from some very conservative Texans. I am immediately ordering more after seeing this feature in the Times - those Betsey Johnson heart tights have such a nostalgic vibe, I swear I’ve worn those in a white version with multi color hearts circa Kindergarten. And it’s not just lace, that sheer black that I usually steer clear of can be done stylishly – think sheer black with the seam up the back like a 40’s pin up.

I’m also pleasantly surprised to see that there is a selection of stockings beyond Wolford & Agent Provocateur – editorial seems to be realizing the recession that is clearly at hand. Lately - it seems as though fashion is moving in such a daring and dynamic direction. Erring on the side of ostentatious - exaggerated costume jewelry, vivid colors, loud makeup, and the overall idea of getting dressed up has been revived. If you think about the fashion cycle in terms of decades, it seems completely natural and on course – the 70’s were free spirited, the 80’s were all about excess, the 90’s were grunge, the 00’s were for nesting, and now that we’re approaching the 10’s - we’ve gotta make it glam.

Check out the rest of the “Fine Points - Lacy Tights” slideshow at NYTimes.com

Waterlily lace tights MyTights.com $13.95

Lace thigh high’s with bows SockDreams.com $15

Rose fishnet lace tights Top Shop $20