This is actually an interesting question. I have lost 24 lbs and have gone from a tight 10 to a 7 juniors (which aren't tight). I think everyone varies on how their weight lose effects them. Sometimes it's my clothes being lose that really makes me notice how much weight or inches I've truly lost. I also do believe working out plays a big part in this. I now workout 5 days a week w/Tae Bo and do weight training 3 days a week. That helps lose those inches that tend to keep us in the bigger sizes. Good Luck