Ask the Image Expert

Sherry Maysonave is the founder and president of Empowerment Enterprises, one of America's leading communication-image firms. Sherry conducts corporate seminars and coaches executives, professionals, and politicians in achieving excellence in communication and image. She is also the author of Casual Power: How to Power Up your Nonverbal Communication and Dress Down for Success

Hose Color

Question: If I am wearing a black pantsuit and closed-toe heels, what stocking color should I wear? Black or natural?
Lana

Answer: When wearing a black pantsuit, you have several choices regarding color. You could wear black, off black, gray, or a natural color and be correct. The determining factors have to do with your height and the statement you want to make. If you are 5'4" or under, I recommend that you wear black or off-black hosiery with black shoes. I mention the off-black color as it can lend a somewhat lighter look for Spring/Summer without creating such a contrast that it makes you appear shorter. A natural color would not be incorrect even if you are short in stature. However, it would make you appear shorter than you are because of the break in color or lack of blended color from the pant hem to the shoes.

If your height does not concern you, then natural toned hosiery would look lighter for the Spring/Summer seasons. In addition, keep in mind that natural color legwear will look less dressy because it gives the appearance of wearing no hosiery. Here we get into the statement that you want to make. Black hosiery would be the dressiest look.

The other factor to consider is the pantsuit fabric. It it's made of cotton or any lightweight casual fabric, wear natural color hosiery instead of black as it would fit the more casual mood of the suit.

Best of luck to you,
Sherry Maysonave

Also see:

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  • Ask your image questions
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