On my legs, these leg-warmers look exactly as they do in the photograph - and my legs are a bit heavier than the model's.  Because of the ribbed style, they are extremely forgiving and expansive without looking over-stretched. Nice and slouchy, the way I prefer leggings, socks and leg-warmers. And yet, they stay up! I probably wouldn't layer them, because they are quite thick and long. Indeed, that's the joy of them - you don't really need anything else under your clothes. I don't have a problem with the itchies, but these are definitely not cashmere. So that's something to keep in mind if you plan to wear them against your sensitive skin. Like another reviewer, I wish they came in more colors. They are absolutely fabulous!