I have wondered this too. I don't care much about my weight persay, I just really want to go down to a size 13/14 and get out of plus sizes. It probably is different for everyone and probably also has a lot to do with height and body type, etc. For instance a person that is only 5'2" losing 20 lbs would make a much more noticeable difference than someone that is 6'2". More spread out, I think, right?
I can't wait till i can go down a size! I can sympathize big time! Good luck to you, I hope your jeans fit you really soon!
Can you wear the low rise ones with a longer shirt so it hides your belly?