How do I choose between tights, stockings and pantyhose?

Opaque tights give coverage and warmth for winter; sheer pantyhose add a subtle, smart finish under dresses and skirts; and thermal tights or leggings are warmest for cold days. Choose opaque or thermal for warmth and coverage, or sheer pantyhose for a polished, barely-there look under formal or work outfits.

What does denier mean on tights, and which should I choose?

Denier measures the thickness of tights — the higher the number, the thicker and more opaque they are. Low-denier (sheer) tights are fine and see-through for a smart look; high-denier opaque tights are thicker, warmer and more durable. Choose a low denier for a sheer finish or a high denier for warmth and coverage.

What's the difference between opaque tights and thermal tights?

Opaque tights are thick enough to hide the skin and give warmth and coverage for everyday winter wear. Thermal tights (and thermal leggings) have extra heat-trapping fabric, often brushed inside, for maximum warmth on very cold days. Choose opaque tights for everyday winter style, or thermal for the coldest weather.

Which tights are warmest for very cold weather?

Thermal tights, thermal leggings and footless thermal leggings are the warmest choices, using brushed or heavier fabric to trap heat. Pairing them under skirts, dresses or trousers keeps you warm in the coldest weather. For everyday cold days, high-denier opaque tights are usually enough; for extreme cold, choose thermal.

What are footless tights and leggings good for?

Footless tights and leggings give warmth and coverage on the legs while leaving the feet bare, so they work with sandals, open shoes or when you don't want fabric in your shoes. Thermal footless leggings add warmth under dresses and long tops. They're a flexible option if full-foot tights feel restrictive.

How do I stop tights from laddering and make them last?

Put tights on gently over clean, snag-free hands and nails, roll them up your leg rather than yanking, and wash them gently in a laundry bag. Air-drying protects the fibres. Keeping nails and rough skin smooth helps prevent snags, and having a spare pair means a ladder never leaves you stuck.

Can I wear sheer pantyhose to work or a formal event?

Yes — sheer pantyhose gives a neat, polished finish under skirts and dresses for work and formal occasions, adding a subtle layer without much warmth. Nude and black are the most versatile. For a smart look choose a low-denier sheer; if you also need warmth, a higher-denier opaque style still looks smart.

Should I buy more than one pair of tights?

Yes — tights are prone to ladders and snags, so keeping a spare pair or two means a run never leaves you without options, especially for work or an event. Buying a couple of everyday black opaque pairs plus a sheer pair covers most outfits. It's a practical, low-cost way to avoid being caught out.

Can tights be returned if they're the wrong size?

For hygiene reasons, tights and stockings usually can't be returned once opened or worn, so check the size guide carefully before buying — see PEP's current returns policy for the exact conditions in-store or online. If a pack is sealed and unopened, ask about the returns terms that apply.