"ah well, i have a feeling this thread is dividing between thin women that can wear most fashion trends including this one.
and those who are, ahem, less than svelte, would not look good in them, and therefore hate the whole look. "
Even thin/svelte women look dreadful in these things.
Anyone past puberty looks hideous in them, both my girls are wearing Leggings as I type this, but they are 3 & 6, not 26 or 36, or 46........ And I hate to sound, um, fattist but anyone with thighs that chaffe together or a muffin top really needs to be enlightened that no, they are not flattering, we can all still see your wobbley bits and if anything that long, gathered at the bottom cardy/top just makes you look bigger.
Stop it, just don't buy them, and if you have got some, only wear them for painting and decorating, or gardening. When no-one will see you.