a) You need to buy these:
http://www.sockshop.co.uk/products/2167/index.html
- they're way, way thicker than they look there, they're super thick, proper winter tights, and amazing. The designy bits on them stand out way better than the image shows, and the black bits are solid black - I'm actually in love with them, and it's £2.50 with FREE delivery. I'm still scared there's a catch somewhere, because that's stupid value given how amazing they are.

b) Look at the image above, and also at these: http://www.sockshop.co.uk/products/ladies_1_pair_elle_tights_cotton_striped / http://www.sockshop.co.uk/products/ladies_1_pair_levante_wool_100_dnr_rib_tights/

Those are both also stupidly awesome. Do you know anywhere on the internet I can get similar? i.e. ultra thick, patterned (but not excessively patterned) tights for about £10 or less? I swear I've spent days searching with zero success. Which is odd, because they're kind of practical, and every girl has to wear them - I want my legs to be warm, not shiny, thanks.

Tights are great, no?