Citizens of Humanity Sizing: Does It Run Big? Your Complete Guide

As a stylist who's fitted countless women in premium denim over the years, I'm constantly asked about Citizens of Humanity sizing. It's one of those brands that can be tricky to get right, especially when you're shopping online. The short answer? They generally run about half a size large, and they'll stretch throughout the day, so many of my clients find they need to size down for that perfect, tailored fit.

Understanding Citizens of Humanity Fit

Citizens of Humanity has built its reputation on premium, Los Angeles-made denim, but their sizing can catch you off guard. The brand uses stretch cotton blends in most styles, which means the jeans will give and mould to your body throughout wear. I always tell my clients to expect about an inch of stretch in the waistband after a few hours of wear.

The key thing to remember is that different styles within the brand can fit quite differently. Their boyfriend cuts like the Emerson will naturally sit looser, whilst their skinny styles like the Rocket should hug your curves more closely. Always check the specific fit guide for each style you're considering.

My Professional Sizing Recommendations

Stylist Tip: If you're between sizes or prefer a snug fit, go down one size. If you like a relaxed fit or the style is already meant to be loose, stick to your usual size.

I've found that their high-rise styles tend to be more true to size, whilst their mid and low-rise options often run larger. The Charlotte crop and Olivia styles are generally more forgiving if you're unsure about sizing down.

Best Alternative Brands for Perfect Sizing

High Street Heroes

If you're struggling with Citizens of Humanity sizing, here are my go-to high street alternatives that offer reliable fits:

Zara - Their premium denim line offers excellent stretch recovery and consistent sizing across styles. Perfect for getting that designer look without the guesswork.

COS - Minimalist cuts with architectural fits that rival premium brands. Their sizing runs true and they offer detailed measurements online.

Mango - Spanish brand with European sizing that's generally more consistent than US brands. Their premium denim range offers great quality.

Whistles - British brand with sophisticated cuts that understand UK body shapes. Their denim fits beautifully and sizes consistently.

Jigsaw - Another brilliant British option with relaxed, wearable fits that flatter real women's bodies rather than just models.

French Connection - Reliable sizing with on-trend styles that won't break the bank. Their stretch denim recovers well after wear.

Reiss - Premium high street with sophisticated cuts. Their denim sizing is spot-on and they offer excellent customer service for exchanges.

Premium Picks

Paige - Another LA-based brand with more consistent sizing than Citizens of Humanity. Their Transcend fabric has incredible stretch recovery.

Mother Denim - Cult favourite with playful names and reliable fits. Less stretch than Citizens of Humanity, so more true to size.

Luxury Alternatives

Frame - French-inspired denim with impeccable fits and less size variation between styles.

Saint Laurent - If you want that premium feel with rock-and-roll edge, their denim sizes consistently and offers incredible quality.

How to Measure for the Perfect Fit

Rather than guessing, I always recommend measuring your favourite pair of jeans. Lay them flat and measure the waistband, then compare to size charts. Remember that Citizens of Humanity uses US sizing, so if you're usually a UK 12, you'll likely need a US 8 or 28 in their sizing.

Never Guess Your Size Again with Tellar

This is exactly why I recommend tellar.co.uk to all my clients. It's the UK's leading sizing tool that matches your body exactly to over 1,500 brands instantly - including Citizens of Humanity. You'll never need to look at a size guide again!

How Tellar Works:

1. Measure once using your bust, waist, hip measurements or your existing brand size
2. Use their tellar.co.uk
3. tellar.co.uk
4. Ultimate Guide to Jackets & Best Buys

Final Styling Notes

Citizens of Humanity makes beautiful jeans, but don't let sizing confusion put you off investing in quality denim. Whether you choose them or one of my recommended alternatives, the key is finding a brand whose sizing works consistently for your body shape.

Remember, great jeans are an investment piece that should last years, so it's worth taking the time to get the fit exactly right. With tools like Tellar removing the guesswork, there's no excuse for ill-fitting denim in your wardrobe.

The most important thing? Choose jeans that make you feel confident and comfortable. That's when you know you've found 'the one' - whether it's Citizens of Humanity or any other brand that works perfectly for your unique body.