Elijah Straight Stretch Corduroy in Black

Citizens of Humanity tends to run about half a size large and stretches with wear, so most owners size down for a fitted look.

A stylist's sizing guide reports the brand "generally run[s] about half a size large" and that owners "expect about an inch of stretch in the waistband after a few hours of wear," advising those between sizes to go down one. Hands-on reviewers back this up across cuts: one who ordered her chart size in the Horseshoe jean found it loose and repurchased a size down, and a shorts reviewer says the relaxed styles "run really big" and always sizes down. The caveat owners flag is line-level: relaxed and baggy cuts run largest, while high-rise styles fit closer to true size — and older forum threads on the skinny-era styles were more mixed.

Sizing advice: Size down one if you're between sizes or want a snug fit — especially in relaxed and baggy cuts, which stretch and loosen with wear; stay true to size only if you want the intentionally slouchy look.

Per owner & reviewer reports: Citizens of Humanity Sizing: Does It Run Big? Your Comple… · Citizens of Humanity Horseshoe Jeans Review (Jeans and a … · Citizens of Humanity Corey Relaxed Denim Shorts Review (T…

Owners are broadly positive about Citizens of Humanity's denim-led pants range. Long-term owners describe the jeans as the best they've owned, and reviewers say the vintage-style cuts fit well through the hips and thighs. The recurring gripes are the high price — several reviewers advise waiting for a sale — and the brand periodically altering details on favorite styles, such as button or zipper closures. Stretch behavior splits by fabric: rigid styles stay exactly as bought, while forum posters report stretchier washes loosening through the day and recovering after a wash.

Strengths

Consistently high marks for denim quality and durability, with owners reporting the jeans hold their shape and last for years.

Watch out for

High prices, sizing that runs slightly small, and periodic changes to popular styles are the most common complaints.

Sizing

Reviewers report most styles run slightly small, and whether a pair gives with wear depends on the fabric — rigid styles won't stretch out, so buy the size that fits from the start.

About Citizens of Humanity's pants line as a whole. Sources: Citizens of Humanity Denim Review: Charlotte and Jolene — Karin Emily · Citizens of Humanity Jeans Review — Honest Brand Reviews · Citizens of Humanity - Sizing? — the Fashion Spot forum