Personally I prefer cotton or natural fibre leggings to tights. I don't like the feel of nylon (itchy), but each to their own. On the days I have to wear a formal skirt with tights for work I can't wait to get home and remove them.
If I'm wearing smart wear for an evening out, at least hold-up stockings still allow my nether regions to breathe - however they need regular adjustment so that would attract some unwanted comments in the workplace.