Hamish can give you "the word" on when to wear light colored versus dark colored kilt hose. Naturally, the outfit will eventually determine which way you go. For me, the oatmeal hose with the green flashes are a wonderful look, especially if the top accentuates the oatmeal hose.

As for the width on the flashes, the dimensions on mine are 1.75" wide, and 5.25" from top to tip. Mine are all dual ribbon, and heavy weight.