I am a size 14 but got the 16 and that is better because they don't tend to slip down even though they do have some lycra or similar in the mix. They are so soft and can only be beaten by the Gio all nylon ones which are more than twice the price, and for retro and special occaisions only. The emerald green is lovely with the black skirt and jacket I have, or even the grey too. They look so different from the masses in opaque black tights you see everywhere. It certainly gets some attention and I am sure many blokes see the seems and wonder if I am wearing tights or stockings. The welts are deep so you need a skirt or dress on or below the knee or you may have embarrasing reveals. The welts are thick too so my small clip suspender belts are a struggle to attach, but the end result is worth it, they are truly lovely, unique and sexy too Rachel