When it comes to hosiery styles that scream sultry and sexy, nothing quite does the job like fishnet tights. They have a way of instantly elevating any outfit, and the best part is they're easy to find in all shapes and sizes. While other tights, such as lace and velvet, have a specific look that requires a certain type of dress to pull off, fishnets are just about as versatile as it gets.

This sexy staple has been around for centuries, and the exact point of their popularity is a bit hazy. But it's likely that they gained traction during the flapper era when hemlines were rising, and standard stockings didn't allow for much movement. Then in the 1980s, Madonna took them to a whole new level and they became synonymous with a certain type of sexual intrigue.

Besides the sheer fact that they add a bold, sexy element to your look, these tights are also very durable. This is largely due to their structure and how the yarns are tightly woven together. This creates a sturdy mesh that is resistant to stretching and breaking, even with repeated wearing and washing. This makes them ideal for high-stress situations and for anyone who wants a little more security than what standard hosiery can provide.

It's not just the edgy fashionistas who love the look of a pair of fishnets, either. Major fashion houses have been showing them on their runways, with designers such as Margiela and Jeremy Scott creating intricate patterns to show off the style. The style can be paired with almost anything, but it works especially well with dresses and skirts.

A bedazzled pair can take the sexiness to the next level. Try pairing them with a leather dress for a bold, rock 'n' roll look, or even a strappy dress that you can wear out on a date night. Pair this with sweet platform heels to give the look a glamorous feel.

You can also make a pair of fishnets more subtle by choosing a lighter color. White, tan, or silver options accomplish the same sexy effect but are more versatile and will go with any outfit. Penelope Cruz wore hers with a suit look and kept the rest of her accessories minimal, which helped the tights to feel elevated and chic instead of just sultry.

Another option is to choose a micronet fishnet, which is the most versatile of all fishnets and will go with just about everything. They're strong enough to stand up to a night out on the town but can also be worn at work, for weddings, funerals, or any formal occasion. The small netting on these is so subtle it could be mistaken for tulle, which is perfect for any dressy outfit.