Nobody would take them for slacks (6)
I believe the answer is:
tights
'slacks' is the definition.
The answer and definition can be both man-made objects as well as being singular nouns.
Perhaps they are linked in a way I don't understand?
I don't understand how the remainder of the clue works.
Can you help me to learn more?
(Other definitions for tights that I've seen before include "Female leggings" , "Leg garment" , "Leg-wear for women" , "Nether garments for women or acrobats (6)" , "Hose coverings from waist to feet" .)