A New Day Tights

From Budget-Conscious Shopper to Tights Enthusiast: My Journey with Target’s In-House Brand

I never thought I’d become someone who gets genuinely excited about tights. Yet here I am, writing what feels like a love letter to A New Day tights – Target’s surprisingly impressive hosiery line that’s been quietly revolutionizing my wardrobe for the past two years. What started as a desperate last-minute purchase before a job interview has evolved into a genuine appreciation for what might be the best value in affordable legwear today.

Let me take you on this journey of discovery, because if you’re anything like I was – skeptical about cheap tights, tired of runs after one wear, and convinced that good hosiery requires a significant investment – you’re in for a pleasant surprise.

The Accidental Discovery That Changed My Hosiery Game

It was a frigid Tuesday morning in November when my go-to pair of expensive department store tights developed a massive run right before an important presentation. With no time for online ordering and my usual hosiery haunts miles away, I found myself reluctantly pushing a red cart through Target’s clothing section, muttering about settling for “whatever they have.”

That’s when I spotted the A New Day tights display – neat packages arranged by denier and color, priced so reasonably I almost walked past them entirely. My fashion-conscious brain was screaming that anything this affordable couldn’t possibly be good quality. But desperation won, and I grabbed a pair of their 40-denier opaque tights in classic black.

The first surprise came when I opened the package. The tights felt substantial – not flimsy or thin like I’d expected from a budget option. The fabric had a pleasant stretch, and the construction looked surprisingly well-done. But the real test would come with wearing them.

Eight hours later, after a full day of meetings, presentations, and nervous leg-crossing, I examined my legs expecting the usual aftermath of cheap hosiery: runs, snags, or that uncomfortable twisted feeling that cheap tights often develop. Instead, I found perfectly intact, comfortable tights that had maintained their shape and opacity throughout the day.

That was my A New Day tights conversion moment.

Understanding the A New Day Brand Philosophy

Before diving into the specifics of their tights collection, it’s worth understanding what A New Day represents in Target’s broader strategy. Launched as part of Target’s push to create more sophisticated in-house brands, A New Day focuses on contemporary women’s clothing and accessories that balance style, quality, and affordability.

The brand’s approach to tights reflects this philosophy perfectly. Rather than trying to compete with luxury hosiery brands on premium features, A New Day tights excel by delivering reliable, comfortable, and stylish options at prices that make it practical to own multiple pairs without breaking the budget.

This strategy has proven remarkably successful. In an era where many women have moved away from regular tights-wearing due to cost and quality frustrations, A New Day has managed to bring practicality back to hosiery shopping.

The Complete Style Spectrum: What’s Available in A New Day Tights

One of the most impressive aspects of the A New Day tights collection is its comprehensive range of styles. This isn’t a token hosiery offering with a few basic options – it’s a thoughtfully curated selection that addresses different needs, seasons, and style preferences.

Opaque tights form the backbone of the collection, available in various deniers ranging from 40 to 120. The 40-denier options provide moderate coverage perfect for professional settings, while the 80 and 120-denier varieties offer complete opacity ideal for colder weather and more casual styling. I’ve found their 80-denier black tights particularly versatile – opaque enough to wear with shorter dresses and skirts, yet not so thick that they look bulky under tailored pants.

The sheer options cater to those who prefer a more delicate look. Their 15-denier and 20-denier tights provide just enough coverage to even out skin tone while maintaining a natural appearance. These have become my go-to for summer events when I want the polished look of hosiery without the heaviness of opaque styles.

For those seeking something beyond basic coverage, A New Day tights include control-top options that provide gentle shaping around the midsection. Unlike some control-top hosiery that can feel restrictive, these manage to offer support while remaining comfortable for extended wear.

The patterned selections deserve special mention. From subtle dots and geometric designs to more elaborate lace-inspired patterns, these options allow for creative styling without venturing into costume territory. I’ve been particularly impressed with their diamond pattern tights, which add visual interest to simple outfits without overwhelming them.

Color Palette: Beyond Basic Black

While black remains the cornerstone of any tights wardrobe, A New Day tights offer an surprisingly diverse color range that extends far beyond the basics. Their nude and beige selections include multiple undertones, acknowledging that “nude” means different things to different people.

The brown and gray options provide sophisticated alternatives to black, particularly useful for creating monochromatic looks or complementing earth-tone wardrobes. I’ve found their charcoal gray tights particularly useful for bridging the gap between casual and professional styling.

Seasonal color offerings have included burgundy, navy, and even forest green – colors that allow for more creative styling while maintaining professionalism. These seasonal options typically appear in limited quantities, so when you find a color you love, it’s worth stocking up.

Material Composition and Construction Quality

The materials used in A New Day tights represent a careful balance between cost-effectiveness and performance. Most styles feature a nylon-spandex blend, typically around 85% nylon and 15% spandex, which provides the stretch and recovery necessary for comfortable wear while maintaining durability.

What sets these tights apart from other budget options is the quality of the knit construction. The fabric feels substantial without being heavy, and the stretch recovery is impressive. After multiple wears and washes, well-cared-for A New Day tights maintain their shape and elasticity remarkably well.

The reinforced toe construction addresses one of the most common failure points in budget hosiery. Rather than the thin, easily-torn toe sections found in many inexpensive tights, A New Day includes reinforced toe areas that significantly extend the life of each pair.

The waistband construction deserves particular praise. Unlike some budget tights that feature narrow, rolling waistbands, A New Day tights include wider, more comfortable waistbands that stay in place without creating uncomfortable pressure points.

Size Range and Fit Considerations

A New Day tights are available in an inclusive size range that extends well into plus sizes, reflecting Target’s broader commitment to size inclusivity. The sizing runs fairly true to standard hosiery measurements, though I’ve found them slightly more forgiving than some premium brands.

For reference, I typically wear a size Medium in most hosiery, and the Medium A New Day tights provide an excellent fit with appropriate stretch and comfortable compression. The sizing chart provided on packaging is accurate, and I’d recommend following it rather than assuming your usual clothing size will translate directly.

The plus-size options deserve special recognition for their thoughtful construction. Rather than simply scaling up smaller sizes, these appear to be designed specifically for curvier figures, with appropriate proportions in the leg length and rise.

Durability Testing: How Long Do They Really Last?

This is where budget hosiery typically fails, so I’ve been particularly diligent about tracking the longevity of my A New Day tights over the past two years. The results have been genuinely impressive.

With proper care – hand washing or gentle machine cycles and air drying – I’ve had pairs last through 15-20 wears before showing significant signs of wear. This is comparable to tights costing two to three times as much, making the value proposition even more compelling.

The most common wear pattern I’ve observed is gradual thinning at high-friction areas like the inner thighs and heels, rather than the sudden catastrophic runs that plague many budget options. This gradual wear pattern means you can often get significant additional wear even after first signs of thinning appear.

Snag resistance has been another pleasant surprise. While no tights are completely snag-proof, A New Day tights handle minor catches and pulls better than expected. Small snags often don’t progress into full runs, particularly if caught and addressed quickly.

Seasonal Versatility and Weather Performance

One area where A New Day tights truly excel is seasonal adaptability. The range of deniers means there’s appropriate options for virtually any weather condition or styling need.

During summer months, their 15-denier sheer tights provide just enough coverage for professional settings without adding unwanted warmth. The breathability is surprisingly good for synthetic hosiery, though they’re certainly not as cool as bare legs.

For fall and spring transitions, the 40-denier options hit the perfect balance. They provide adequate warmth for mildly cool weather while remaining light enough that they don’t feel heavy or bulky under clothing.

Winter is where the heavier deniers shine. The 80 and 120-denier A New Day tights provide genuine warmth while maintaining a sleek profile under clothing. I’ve worn them comfortably in temperatures down to the low 30s Fahrenheit, though extremely cold weather calls for additional layering.

Care Instructions and Longevity Tips

Proper care significantly extends the life of A New Day tights, and fortunately, they’re relatively low-maintenance compared to more delicate hosiery options.

Machine washing is possible and generally safe using cold water and gentle cycles. However, I’ve found that hand washing extends their lifespan considerably. The fabric responds well to gentle detergents, and harsh chemicals or bleach should be avoided entirely.

Air drying is essential. The heat from dryers can degrade the spandex fibers and lead to premature breakdown of elasticity. I typically hang them to dry, taking care not to stretch them while wet.

Storage matters more than you might expect. Keeping A New Day tights in a dedicated drawer section, away from items with rough edges or Velcro, prevents snags during storage. I’ve started folding them individually rather than balling them up, which seems to prevent stretching and tangling.

Comparing Value: A New Day vs. Premium Brands

Having worn everything from drugstore tights to designer hosiery, I can offer some perspective on how A New Day tights stack up against the competition.

Against other budget brands, A New Day consistently outperforms in durability and comfort. The slightly higher price point compared to dollar store options pays dividends in longevity and wear experience.

When compared to mid-range department store brands, A New Day tights hold their own remarkably well. While they may not have some of the premium features like advanced moisture-wicking or ultra-sheer construction, they deliver comparable day-to-day performance at a fraction of the cost.

Against luxury hosiery brands, the differences become more apparent. Premium tights often feature superior materials, more sophisticated construction techniques, and specialized features. However, for everyday wear, the performance gap doesn’t justify the price difference for most consumers.

The sweet spot seems to be using A New Day tights for regular rotation and investing in premium options for special occasions or specific performance needs.

Professional Styling and Formal Wear Compatibility

One concern many women have about budget hosiery is whether it looks appropriate in professional settings. A New Day tights consistently pass this test, looking polished and professional in business environments.

The opacity levels are well-calibrated – the 40-denier options provide adequate coverage without looking heavy, while the 80-denier varieties offer complete opacity for more conservative dress codes. The finish has a subtle matte quality that photographs well and doesn’t appear cheap or shiny.

For formal events, A New Day tights perform admirably. I’ve worn them to weddings, business dinners, and other dressy occasions without feeling underdressed or concerned about quality. The key is choosing the appropriate denier and ensuring a proper fit.

The control-top options work particularly well for fitted dresses and formal wear, providing gentle shaping without the extreme compression that can make some control hosiery uncomfortable for extended wear.

Special Features and Innovative Elements

While A New Day tights focus primarily on delivering solid basics, there are some noteworthy features that enhance their appeal.

The reinforced toe construction extends beyond just durability – it also provides a more comfortable fit in closed-toe shoes. The slightly thicker toe area prevents some of the bunching and sliding that can occur with ultra-thin hosiery.

The waistband design includes a cotton gusset in many styles, which improves comfort and breathability in a crucial area. This attention to detail elevates the wearing experience beyond what you’d expect from budget hosiery.

Some seasonal styles include subtle texture variations – not quite patterns, but interesting knit structures that add visual depth without being overly decorative. These options bridge the gap between basic tights and statement hosiery.

Sustainability Considerations and Environmental Impact

As consumers become increasingly conscious of environmental impact, it’s worth considering the sustainability aspects of A New Day tights. While they’re not marketed as specifically eco-friendly, their durability contributes to reduced consumption compared to ultra-cheap options that require frequent replacement.

The packaging is relatively minimal, using less plastic than many hosiery brands. However, like most synthetic hosiery, the nylon-spandex composition means they’re not biodegradable and should be disposed of thoughtfully.

The value proposition actually supports more sustainable consumption patterns – when quality tights are affordable, there’s less temptation to buy extremely cheap options that quickly end up in landfills.

Shopping Strategy and Stock Management

A New Day tights are exclusively available at Target stores and Target.com, which simplifies the shopping process but also requires some strategic thinking about availability.

Stock levels can vary significantly between stores, and popular sizes and colors sometimes sell out quickly. I’ve found that shopping early in the season for specialty colors yields the best selection.

Online ordering provides more consistent availability, though shipping costs can impact the value proposition for small orders. I typically order multiple pairs at once or combine with other Target purchases to maximize efficiency.

The pricing remains remarkably consistent – sales are relatively rare, but the everyday low prices make them unnecessary. Seasonal clearance events sometimes offer opportunities to stock up on discontinued colors.

Addressing Common Concerns and Limitations

No product is perfect, and A New Day tights have some limitations worth acknowledging. The color selection, while broader than many budget brands, doesn’t match the extensive ranges offered by hosiery specialists. If you’re looking for very specific shades or unusual colors, you may need to look elsewhere.

The sheerness levels, while well-executed, don’t offer the ultra-fine options preferred by some hosiery enthusiasts. If you specifically need 5-denier or ultra-sheer options, premium brands remain the better choice.

Some patterns and textures are seasonal and limited edition, which can be frustrating if you find a style you love but can’t repurchase later. Building a wardrobe around core styles rather than seasonal offerings helps mitigate this issue.

The Future of Budget Hosiery: What A New Day Represents

A New Day tights represent something larger than just another budget hosiery option – they’re part of a broader shift toward democratizing quality fashion essentials. By proving that good tights don’t require premium prices, they’re making professional and polished dressing more accessible.

This accessibility has practical implications beyond individual wardrobes. When quality hosiery is affordable, it removes a barrier to professional dressing that many women face. The confidence that comes from knowing your tights won’t fail during an important day is valuable beyond its cost.

The success of A New Day tights also suggests that consumers are increasingly value-conscious rather than brand-conscious when it comes to basics. Quality, fit, and performance matter more than prestige, particularly for items that are frequently replaced.

Final Thoughts: Why These Tights Earned a Permanent Place in My Wardrobe

After two years of regular wear, extensive testing, and comparison with alternatives across the price spectrum, A New Day tights have earned their place as my go-to hosiery choice. They’ve solved the fundamental challenge of budget hosiery – delivering reliable quality at accessible prices.

Are they perfect? No. Are they the best tights ever made? Certainly not. But they represent something perhaps more valuable – consistent, reliable performance that removes the anxiety and expense from hosiery shopping.

For the vast majority of tights-wearing occasions – work, social events, seasonal weather protection – A New Day tights deliver everything you need without the premium price tag. They’ve made it possible to maintain a well-stocked hosiery drawer without significant investment, which paradoxically has improved my overall style confidence.

The real test of any wardrobe essential is whether you’d repurchase it when it wears out. For A New Day tights, that answer is an unequivocal yes. They’ve transformed my relationship with hosiery from grudging necessity to practical satisfaction, proving that sometimes the best fashion investments are the most affordable ones.

In a world where fashion often demands choosing between quality and affordability, A New Day tights offer a rare third option – both. For anyone tired of disappointing budget hosiery or intimidated by premium prices, these tights deserve serious consideration. They might just surprise you as much as they surprised me.