515's are forgiving in their sizing. The stretch in then accommodates the ebb and flow of water weight, stomach fullness, and even gaining a losing a few pounds. They are also indestructible; wash-and-wear fabrics. They do not acquire the jeans patina as quickly due to the stretch, but hey, this just keeps them looking dressy longer. I have a pair in shorts, capris, and skinny jeans and they are the workhorses all year round in my -go out of the house' jeans.