It’s easy to overthink your outfit and second-guess if you’ve picked the right shoes. Fortunately, there’s a simple method to build a chic look around tights. Start with any of the nine shoes listed below—many of which you likely already own. We consulted fashion stylists Chloe Griffin and Tracy Shapoff for their expert tips on how to master this combination.

Griffin suggests that any glossy, closed-toe shoe looks the most elegant with tights. She also follows a few key rules: “A big no for me is tights with trainers—it reminds me of school! In general, the lower your hemline, the higher your heel should be,” she tells InStyle. On the other hand, Shapoff advises that if you want to elongate your legs, you should aim to show more of them. “Proportions matter when pairing tights with different shoe styles,” she explains. “I love a three-quarter or ankle-length dress with tall pumps, so only the foot and ankle are visible.”

Of course, these aren’t your only options. Below, we’ve highlighted nine stylish shoes to wear with tights and paired each with an outfit idea. This way, you’ll have plenty of inspiration, backed by expert fashion advice.

Slingback Heels

No matter the color of your tights, a sleek slingback kitten heel adds polish and instantly upgrades your look to business-ready. You can mix and match the rest of your outfit to create different styles, but when it comes to the shoe, make sure it fits securely. Ask yourself: Is the back strap adjustable? Is the heel height comfortable? Choosing a neutral color makes it easier to pair with various tights.

Ankle Boots

Ankle boots are a perfect match for tights, adding both shape and attitude to your outfit. A sleek sock boot offers a more streamlined, minimalist vibe, while a tough combat boot can complete a punk-inspired look. Shapoff also recommends Dr. Martens for this category: “A chunky flat boot that sits higher on the ankle is a fun daytime option with tights,” she says.

Chunky Loafers

With the growing popularity of the preppy academia trend, loafers have become a top footwear choice—and they pair perfectly with tights. The current style is to wear platform loafers with slouchy white ankle socks over sheer black tights. Griffin highlights Hailey Bieber as an example of seamlessly transitioning the balletcore trend from one season to the next.

Pointed Toe Pumps

For pumps and tights, we suggest going bold with a monochrome look. Shapoff shares great advice for styling this combination: “When matching tights and heels, opt for a shorter skirt or dress to create the illusion of longer legs.” You can also try sheer tights with a back seam paired with sleek stiletto pumps for added sophistication.

Ballerina Pumps or Flats

Whether you prefer pumps or flats, the ballerina shoe stands out by hugging your foot like a glove. This is especially true in soft leather or with a cap-toe design, which draws attention to your feet. A delicate bow on top adds a charming, feminine touch that completes the look.

Knee-High Boots

Knee-high boots reach higher on the leg, covering more of your tights. For this style, we suggest sticking with neutral tights—whether sheer or opaque—to maintain a seamless look. Pair them with leather shorts for a bold outfit, or go for a classic miniskirt to keep it simple.

Mules

Mules pair beautifully with tights, creating a striking contrast and highlighting the shoe’s silhouette. Style them with a mini skirt or a longer dress with a sheer bottom to ensure your footwear stands out without being overshadowed.

Mary Janes

We love the schoolgirl vibe of pairing tights with Mary Jane shoes. Adding a contrast ankle sock over your tights can highlight the shape of your heel. This is a great way to introduce a playful touch to a simpler outfit.

Open-Toe Sandals

The open-toe sandal is one of the most debated styles with tights—should you or shouldn’t you? Street style experts show that it’s definitely doable, and our experts agree. The trick is to keep the sandal minimal and suitable for evening wear, with just a few thin straps. Griffin advises opting for lace, patterned, or super-sheer tights if you go for an open-toe look. Shapoff adds that you should ensure the toe seam of your tights is hidden under your foot.