There is constant deliberation among women regarding the little strip of cloth called “pantyhose”. Ah, yes. I’m sure you’re all familiar with that. Your mom wears it, your grandma swears by it. Some fashion gurus think it’s a major faux pas to wear pantyhose. But then again, some believe it’s faux pas not to.

Wearing pantyhose gives the illusion of a silky, smooth, and unblemished pair of legs. Other than that, they give the hips and legs a slimmer look. But how exactly do you wear pantyhose like a professional? And how do you manage to wear the most unusual shades without looking skanky?

Pantyhose always works best with formal, well-ironed formal dresses, business or tailored skirts. The pantyhose is an integral part of the corporate look. It gives off a more professional look.

On nights out, wearing a silky pair of pantyhose with a formal cocktail dress and killer close-toed high heel shoes is admissible. However, if you feel the urge to wear those gorgeous, open-toed sandals, do not fret. There is a smart little innovation called “toe-less” hose which spells salvation for a sea of women.

Pantyhose is available in a lot of different colors, patterns, and thickness. Darker shades give an illusion of thinner, shapelier looking legs. Lighter colors like beiges, grays, whites and off-black colors are more appropriate for a business environment. Patterned or textured hose are for a more fun and playful look.

To achieve the professional look, do not, and I mean, DO NOT wear patterned or textured hose. Could you take the sight of one of your colleagues wearing fishnet stockings with gorgeous Christian Louboutin pumps? Unsightly. Goosebumps, anyone? Dark shades (such as gray or black) or lighter shades such as beige, tan or white work better in the office setting. You can keep those hideous fishnets for the world NOT to see.

Wear formal, professional clothes with your pantyhose. Formal is the key word here. Think blazers, pleated or pencil skirts and corporate dresses. Never wear pantyhose with denim or leather skirts. It would make you look like some leftover from the 1980s. Have you seen old videos of Madonna or Cindi Lauper? Think hard if you want to end up looking like that.

I probably mentioned it a while ago, but better safe than sorry: Never wear pantyhose with open-toe sandals. For the lack of a better word, I’d say you will end up looking quite stupid if you don’t heed this advice.

Never wear your pantyhose with shorts. Do I need to elaborate on that? Never wear pantyhose with a mini or a micro mini for that matter. The look we are trying to achieve here is professional. Not skanky. Always make sure your hoses, especially the light colored ones are clean. You wouldn’t want to parade around the office with soiled pantyhose do you? Oh, and if black is your shade of choice, make sure they are spotless. Lose threads from your skirt or hairballs bound to your pantyhosed legs are a major turn off too.