Hold-ups, stockings and tights are often talked about as if they're interchangeable, but each is built differently and suits a different occasion. Knowing the difference makes it much easier to pick the right one — rather than buying stockings and wondering why you also need a suspender belt.
Tights
Tights are a single garment that covers both legs and the torso up to the waist, held up by their own waistband. They're the most practical, everyday option: no suspenders, no separate band to worry about, just pull them on. They're usually the best choice for cooler weather or all-day wear under trousers, as the fuller coverage adds warmth that hold-ups and stockings don't. Our denier guide explains which weight to choose.
Hold-ups
Hold-ups are self-supporting single-leg garments that use an elasticated, often silicone-lined band at the top of the thigh to stay in place, with no waistband and no suspender belt required. They give the look of stockings with none of the extra kit, which makes them a popular everyday choice as well as an occasion piece. Our full range is in hosiery, including plus size hold-ups cut with a wider band for a more secure, comfortable fit.
Stockings
Stockings are also single-leg garments, but unlike hold-ups they have no self-supporting band — they need a suspender belt to stay up. That's a deliberate trade-off: without the silicone grip band, the top of a stocking can sit flatter and lighter against the leg, which is part of why they're favoured for occasion and lingerie-led looks rather than everyday wear. Our guide to wearing a suspender belt shows how to put them on.
Which one should you choose?
For everyday wear under work clothes, tights are usually the most practical and lowest-maintenance option. For a stockings look without the extra accessory, hold-ups are the natural middle ground — easy to put on, nothing extra to buy, and suitable for both daily wear and special occasions depending on the style. For a full lingerie look built around a suspender belt, stockings are the traditional choice, and worth pairing with a set from our lingerie collection.
A quick comparison
- Tights: full coverage, waistband, warmest, most practical for everyday wear.
- Hold-ups: single leg, self-supporting band, no suspender belt needed, versatile for daily wear or occasions.
- Stockings: single leg, needs a suspender belt, lightest at the top of the thigh, most occasion-led.