We confess to being a little confused by Max Mara packaging as the bottom right of the front says “Premium 13”. We previously took this to be the style name. Still, the sticker with the size and colour also carries the title “Gibus”. As this is the name used by UK Tights and has no other meaning nor reason to be there, we are taking this to be the name.
So to the tights. They are made in four sizes, of which the smallest three have a cotton-lined gusset; our test pair being the largest size (XL) has the comfort gusset detail.
First impressions are excellent. Light and soft with an almost liquid quality as the sheer material flows over your hands. Sheer to waist with just the narrowest of reinforced strips either side of the flat seams in the panty and a narrow finger band giving transition to a plain waistband. Should you ever need to know the size of these tights, there is no label. But feel along the waistband, and you will find several ridges. Count them, and you have your size. The sheer legs are shaped at the heel and finished with a lightly reinforced toe detail.
Sizing is spot on, and we think there is enough stretch to cope with both the maximum height and maximum weight suggested for the XL size. Fit on the legs is excellent, and the colour is perfectly even with a sheer finish. We found that the XL comfort gusset detail made for a slightly uninvolved fit in the seat. Our recommendation is to go for the L size. Unless you need the XL for weight, there should be sufficient stretch in length.
The toe detail is sheer but not entirely invisible in a black pair. That said it is small enough that you could get away with it with strappy evening shoes. There is no stand out details. These are well designed, well made good quality sheers that are on a par with Falke, Kunert, Gerbe etc. Sensibly priced and well worth a try.
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