I also hate low rise, but found two stores that define their styles quite clearly to make shopping easier. Ann Taylor Loft and Victoria's Secret. At VS I like the 'Christie' fit and at Ann Taylor Loft I like the 'Marissa' Fit. If you go to their websites they explain each fit in terms of rise, leg shape, etc. I got great jeans at Ann Taylor Loft in a boot cut last year that are medium rise. Ann Taylor's sizing is quite generous, their 4s fit me like a 6 at VS. I have found VS has pretty consistent sizing. Once I ordered pants in 3 sizes to find my size (they were running a free shipping w free returns on pants), but now that I know my style and size I have to send very little back.