I’d be curious what shop gave that advice.
I had the same advice when I was new to selvedge and raw denim. The shop was Rivet & Hide. I found a pair I felt really comfortable in but they talked me out of it and very firmly advised me to get a smaller size. I shouldn’t have listened to them. The jeans never stretched like they said they would and it ended up being a waste of my money. I learned my lesson but I’m still a little bitter about it!
I've worn raw denim for over a decade, but this was my first pair of IH jeans. I went as far as sending the IH sales rep a video of me in them to get his thoughts. I don't really feel comfortable saying who it was as I'm sure he was just trying to be helpful. Yeah I've come to the conclusion that these just aren't going to work. I just grabbed 2 pairs from another brand that I know works for me and hope to get back to IH sooner or later. Thanks for all the advice, it's been much appreciated.