View in browser

December 13, 2024

Aubrey Patti/NYT Wirecutter

If you’re partial to showing a little leg during the winter (holiday party, anyone?), a good pair of sheer black tights is indispensable. There are countless options on the market, but unfortunately, most are prone to snagging, running, or ripping.

In search of the strongest sheer black tights, style expert and staff writer Hannah Frye put a couple of the most promising options in head-to-head tests. Both brands promised the same thing: sheer black tights that will last. So with a pineapple, pliers, and press-on acrylic nails in her bag, Hannah got to work trying to destroy them both.

A clear winner emerged→

We independently review everything we recommend. When you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more ›

Sarah Kobos/NYT Wirecutter

Whether you prefer extra-warm wool tights or a simple and affordable pair, our favorite black tights are perfect supporting players to any outfit—ready to layer under a skirt or dress without sagging, rubbing, or digging in.

Our 4 favorite tights→

Jeans dressy enough to wear anywhere They stretch without looking like they are meant to stretch→

The very best button-ups Our favorites are well-fitting, durable, and look sharp→

A lovely hairpin for chic updos It takes a bit of practice, but this pin can hold most hair more securely and elegantly than a traditional elastic→

Our favorite mascaras They add length, volume, or oomph, but no clumps or smudges→

The best shapewear After extensive testing, we found five (actually comfortable) winners→

Michael Murtaugh/NYT Wirecutter

At first squeeze, this luxe lip balm feels and looks like gloss—shiny, pillowy, and thick. But then it absorbs, leaving lips with a gleaming and supple shine that lasts all day. A perfect present for stuffing in anyone’s stocking this year.

A smooth-as-silk lip balm we love→

Thanks for reading.

You can reach the Wirecutter Newsletters team at newsletters@wirecutter.com. We can’t always respond, but we do love to hear from you.

Was this email kindly forwarded to you? Sign up here to get this newsletter in your inbox.

Need help? Review our newsletter help page or contact us for assistance. You received this email because you signed up for The Recommendation from The New York Times. To stop receiving The Recommendation, unsubscribe. To opt out of other promotional emails from The Times, including those regarding The Athletic, manage your email settings. To opt out of updates and offers sent from The Athletic, submit a request.

Subscribe to The TimesGet The New York Times app

Connect with us on:

Change Your EmailPrivacy PolicyContact UsCalifornia Notices

The New York Times Company. 620 Eighth Avenue New York, NY 10018