"We're seeing a return to emphasis on the legs," says Mirium Freibauer, chief marketing officer for Phantom, which produces Silks and Fetish hosiery in Canada.

Argyle, diamond, herringbone and houndstooth prints are all the rage, in colours such as chocolate, caramel, dark navy, burgundy, scarlet red, deep purple and turquoise.

Chunky, crocheted fishnets, stay-ups with lacy tops or a built-in garter and over-the-knee two-tone opaque socks are also being worn to accent shorter skirts, tweeds and plaids, adding a touch of sass and class to a woman's look for the office or after-five wear.

"We're seeing a change in women's attitudes about sexuality. Being beautiful and sexy makes them feel confident. Our products reflect this. They're tasteful with an edge," says Freibauer.

"This year's hosiery is in rich colours that look like gemstones. We're seeing a lot of pattern, with animal prints like leopard and zebra in tights and trouser socks, and shiny fabrics that add a little more interest to suits, wool sweaters and skirts," says Secret's marketing manager Sylvia Richie.

That's why the "Silk Shape" line of pantyhose and tights provide shaping, which means no more panty lines and greater compression in the midriff.

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