These jeans are perfect--I will definitely buy more if I can find other colors in my size! They seem true to size. I have a 27" waist and went with the size 7 short. They were a bit snug the first time I put them on, but soon loosened up just enough to be comfortable, but not too much to sag. The denim is not as thick/sturdy as I would like, but it is soft. The best part is these do not gap when I sit down like most low-rise jeans. Pockets hit the right part of my butt too. Overall very flattering. The length was perfect for me too--I'm just shy of 5'3".