ABLE Denim Guide: every style reviewed

*updated June, 2024*

Able clothing denim guide ethical jeans fair trade quality denim

I’ve been into the ethical, slow fashion brands for years and have tried a lot of sustainable jeans at all different price points. When I find something, I like I tend to stick with it. My criteria includes the brand’s ethics, mission and sustainability. With all of that in mind, I’ve come to love the ethical fashion company ABLE Clothing and especially their full line of fair-trade eco-friendly denim. This review includes an ABLE denim guide for all current styles on their website. I’ll continue to update it as they release more styles so make sure you bookmark this page and check back now and then.

Before we dive in, I also want to mention ABLE Clothing has a great at-home try-on option which means you can do a comparison of ABLE denim customized to you. Able allows you to order up to eight pieces in different sizes, try them all on, return or exchange what doesn’t work and ship the rest back within 7 days. You only pay a minimal shipping fee for the trial – mine was $4. It’s all the perks of in-store try on within the comfort of your home without having to go to the store.

You can use code ASHLEIGH15 for 15% off ABLE Clothing.

*this post is not sponsored. The links are affiliate links, which means I make a small commission if you purchase through them and it doesn’t cost you anything.

My Sizing Info:

For this ABLE Denim Guide, it’s essential to know my size for you to be able to consider how each style will fit you. My measurements:

  • I am 5’7″ (long torso, average length legs)
  • 137ish pounds
  • 28″ waist
  • 38″ hips

BECKY STRAIGHT LEG JEAN

Sustainably made straight leg full length denim review ABLE

Style: Becky Straight Leg Jean

Cost: $138

Size: 28

ABLE denim description:

Amp up your everyday look in these high rise, ’90s-inspired jeans. Made from our comfort stretch denim, these straight leg jeans are designed to fit snugly through the waist, hips, and thighs, but with a touch of give built-in. Ethically made and perfectly fit, the Becky gives you a vote of confidence every time you put them on. 

  • 99% Cotton, 1% Elastane
  • Comfort stretch denim
  • Fabric will give with wear, we suggest your true size for a snug fit
  • High rise
  • Straight leg silhouette
  • Front button/zip fly closure
  • 5-pocket styling
  • Machine wash cold
  • Made in Mexico

My thoughts:

These are my favorite ABLE jeans to date. The denim is soft, comfy and molds to your body. They do stretch, but in the best way possible. After a couple days of wear the Becky jeans are one of my most comfortable pairs. The rise is 10 3/4″ on size 27, which sits just below my belly button, a nice high rise.

I think ABLE has heard us loud and clear with sizing issues. They’ve slowed their production and got the sizing right. I find these jeans to be true to size, slightly bigger fit than denim in the last 1-2 years. I would only size up if you want a loose fit.

Note: these are a 32″ full length jean, so consider that if you petite. You may need to have these hemmed or wear higher heels. I love this style cuffed as well.

ELAINE WIDE LEG:

Affordable ethical denim guide wide leg jeans by ABLE

Style: Elaine Wide Leg Jeans

Cost: $138

Size: 28

ABLE denim description:

Made from our signature, buttery soft, non-stretch denim, these ’90s-inspired jeans are a closet staple. Featuring an ultra wide leg silhouette, these high rise, leg-lengthening, relaxed fit jeans have a full length inseam – so you can pair back to your favorite sneakers for an every day look, or with a wedge or heel to dress up with your favorite blouse.

  • 64% Cotton 36% Lyocell
  • Non-stretch denim
  • Relaxed fit through the waist, hip and thigh
  • Ultra wide leg silhouette
  • Front button/zip fly closure
  • 5-pocket styling
  • Machine wash cold
  • Made in Mexico

My thoughts:

These are my second favorite ABLE jeans to date. They are beautifully made and high quality. The fabric is soft, not too heavy, which I often find with wide leg jeans. The Elaine jeans fit really well right out of the package. I love the high rise – 11 1/4″, at my belly button. The full length inseam allows you to wear heels or cuff them for a modern look (pro tip: use fabric tape to hold your cuff in place). If you are looking for ethically made, affordable wide leg jeans I can’t recommend this style from ABLE enough.

I find these jeans to be true to size, slightly bigger fit in the mid section than ABLE’s last pair of wide leg jeans. The back pockets are slightly lower as well, which I find very flattering. I recommend ordering your true size.

GINNIE WIDE LEG:

ABLE denim review Ginnie Wide Leg jean
Ginnie Wide Leg Jean

Style: Ginnie Wide Leg Jean

Cost: $120

Size: 28

ABLE denim description:

The Ginnie Wide Leg Jean is a modern take on 70’s denim. Designed with a waist hugging high rise, an ultra-cool wide leg silhouette, and subtle vintage touches – these jeans are the perfect wear everywhere with anything style. Featuring rounded back patch pockets with custom stitching, the Ginnie is denim you can get behind.

  • 64% Cotton, 36% Lyocell 
  • Non-stretch
  • Ultra high waist, slim through waist and high hip with a full length wide leg silhouette from low hip through to the leg opening
  • True to size.
  • Machine Wash Cold. Tumble Dry Low. (we recommend waiting 5-10 wears between washes to extend the life of your jean)
  • Made in Mexico

My thoughts:

This denim is soft and lightweight. I love the ultra high rise (11 3/4″). It’s worth noting that there is just one front pocket, but it is functional. The rear pockets are high. I love the thick hem too – all round these are a win especially if you are on the hunt for ethical, wide leg trendy denim.

If you are between sizes I would strongly recommend sizing up. If you prefer a looser fit, size up. ABLE denim runs small in comparison with Madewell & Everlane.

HOLLY KICK FLARE:

Style: Holly Kick Flare

Cost: $110

Size: 28

ABLE denim description:

These 70’s style kick flare jeans sit at your natural waist and hug you in all the right places. The Holly features a flattering high rise and a gently flared hem that hits right at your ankle. Made with our stretch denim in a versatile medium indigo wash, this is a jean that will stay looking and feeling good. 

  • 92% Cotton, 6% Poly, 2% Elastane 
  • Stretch 
  • Zipper front closure
  • Fitted through waist, hips, and down through the leg, with a subtle kick shape that flares at the knee
  • True to size.
  • Machine wash cold. Tumble dry low. (we recommend waiting 5-10 wears between washes to extend the life of your jean)
  • Made in Mexico 

My thoughts:

This denim is stretchy and molds to your body. At first I could barely get them zipped, but after just a few hours of wear they felt great. They stretch just right without getting saggy and they are really comfortable to wear all day. The denim is thick and high quality, but not rigid.

If you are between sizes I would strongly recommend sizing up. If you prefer a looser fit, size up. ABLE denim runs small in comparison with Madewell & Everlane.

CHELSEA CLASSIC HIGH RISE STRAIGHT:

Style: Chelsie Classic High Rise Straight

Cost: $98

Size: 28

ABLE denim description:

The Chelsie Classic High Rise Straight is a vintage jean you’ll wear over and over for ages. These slim straight jeans hug you in all the right places. It’s fitted through the waist and hips and has a straight fit through the leg opening down to the raw hem. The Chelsie has a true comfort stretch. It feels like non-stretch, yet has a bit more give.  

  • 99% Cotton, 1% Elastane
  • High rise, Inseam 27 1/2″
  • Zipper fly, button closure
  • Raw hem
  • Slim straight, comfort stretch
  • Machine wash cold, tumble dry low, do not bleach
  • Made in Mexico

My thoughts:

This denim is the most rigid of ABLE jeans I’ve tried. According to my measurements, the rise is 12″ in the front (size 28), which is a great high rise for someone like me with a long torso. If you have a straight waist or a less defined waistline I recommend sizing up. Historically, ABLE denim fit big on my waist, but these do not. I find the waist to be true to size & as described “fitted through waist & hips”. I love the fringe at the hem and slightly longer length – not a true crop or full length. These hit right at my ankle bone. If you are petite, these could potentially be a full length option for you (depending on height).

LEAH SAILOR JEAN:

ABLE Denim Guide sustainable eco friendly jeans
Leah Sailor Jean

Style: Leah Sailor Jean

Cost: $120

Size: 28

ABLE description:

The Leah Sailor Jean is a wide leg denim featuring a beautiful high rise. She has functional sailor patch pockets in both front and back. These ultra soft jeans are slim in the waist and widen just below the hip. Try styling these with heeled shoes or boots.

  • Front and back patch pockets
  • Zipper fly
  • High waisted
  • Wide leg
  • Cotton, Lyocell
  • Inseam 31″
  • Front rise 11 3/4″, Back rise 15 3/4″
  • Made in Mexico

My thoughts:

These jeans are very soft, but not stretchy. They are quite fitted in the waist & hip. I read other reviews before I ordered them saying to size up, but given my smaller waist and love for a good high rise I went with my usual size. Obviously, they fit but don’t have a lot of give. I do love this look and am happy for this great full length option. For the sake of consistency throughout the reviews I kept the same flat sneakers on (also from ABLE), but I will definitely style these with a blocked boot & other heels. Ready to venture beyond skinnies and slim straight jeans? This style is worth a shot. If you are between sizes or want a little more room I recommend sizing up.

THE WHITNEY BOYFRIEND:

Whitney Boyfriend

Style: The Whitney Boyfriend

Cost: $95

Size: 27

ABLE description:

Meet the perfect boyfriend jean… Wear them with your favorite pair of sneakers in the warmer months or over your go-to boots when it cools down. Wear it true to size, or go up a size for a more relaxed fit to sit slightly lower on the hips 

  • High Rise, relaxed in the waist and easy through the hip and thigh with a straight leg and 4” cuff
  • Inseam: 29” full length
  • Front rise: 11”
  • Back rise: 14 1/2”
  • 75% cotton 25 % Lyocell
  • Non-stretch denim with soft hand feel
  • Handcrafted in Mexico

My thoughts:

I bought these ABLE jeans a while back in my usual size 28, and they didn’t fit me well. I recently decided to give them another shot in a size down and I’m glad I did because I like the fit a whole lot more. The denim is soft, but doesn’t stretch out too much. The jeans come cuffed, which is perfect for warmer seasons. I love the length uncuffed as well (pictured above). It feels like an easy way to transition from cropped to full length jeans. If you want a true boyfriend style fit, stay true to size, otherwise I recommend sizing down. I don’t recommend sizing up in this style.

PHYLLIS OVERALL:

ABLE Denim Guide
Phyllis Overall

Style: Phyllis Overall

Cost: $165

Size: Small

ABLE description:

Your workwear overalls just got a bit more feminine. The Phyllis Overalls have amazing workwear details such as a front pocket that fits a phone, and real side pockets. These high rise overalls are easy through the hips and flow into a straight leg cut. Pair with tanks, long sleeves, cardigans, you name it – the versatility of these overalls can handle it.

  • Non-stretch denim
  • Loose fit
  • Straight leg
  • Cotton, Lyocell
  • Inseam: 28 1/2”
  • Front rise 11″, Back rise 14 3/4″
  • Adjustable metal sliders on straps
  • Made in Mexico

My thoughts:

My 8th grade self could not resist – did I just date myself? I think so. Anyway, the sizing of the Phyllis Overall is not numbered. Instead they have XXS-XXL, which according to the size chart is waist sizes 23-37.5″. I fell right between a small and a medium on the chart for my waist & hips, so I opted for the small, but could easily wear a medium as well. I had to unbutton the side buttons when pulling the overalls over my hips/rear, but they fit fine once on. The waist is roomy and I had plenty of extra in the front tummy area. I’m not sure tummy area is the correct language, but you get the idea.

They came with the straps at full length and I haven’t changed them – I need all of the length for my long torso. The pockets are nice and roomy – the top one is made to even fit a phone. I was curious how a medium would fit for taller bodies – I’m 5’7″ so if you are taller than that I’d suggest sizing up or the straps might not be long enough. Otherwise, I would say these run true to size.

Clarissa High Rise Jeans

Style: The Clarissa High Rise

Cost: $85

Size: 28

ABLE denim description:

Everyone needs a classic pair of skinny jeans (no matter what the internet says these days). The Clarissa are your go-to, comfy, timeless jeans created for everyday wear. 

  • High rise, fitted through hip and thigh, with a slim leg
  • Inseam: 29”
  • Front rise: 10 ⅜“
  • Back rise: 14 ½”
  • 92% Cotton 6% Polyester 2% Elastane (Dark Indigo Wash)
  • 93% Cotton 5% Polyester 2% Elastane (Washed Black)
  • Raw cut hem (Washed Black)
  • High Stretch Performance Denim from Cone Denim Mills
  • Handcrafted in Mexico
  • This jean runs true to size

My thoughts:

If you are looking for a classic high rise skinny jean that are sustainable this is it. Although I don’t wear skinnies that often, these are really comfortable. They have a nice amount of stretch which is essential for skinny jeans. I got the Mid Blue wash for a casual look,although I love that ABLE offers this style in 3 colors. The washed black and dark indigo options would be great for dressing up with a pair of heels or booties and I have another similar pair from ABLE that I’ve worn for years as my “dressy” jeans. They have worn quite well.

These jeans run true to size. I’m wearing a 28. I also tried a 27 and they were way too tight, so stick with your usual or size up if you are between sizes.

Ashleigh Flare Jeans

ABLE Denim review Ashleigh Flare eco friendly flare jeans
ABLE Ashleigh Flare

Style: Ashleigh Flare

Cost: $120

Size: 28

ABLE denim description:

The style: A vintage-inspired, modern take on the flare – perfect to pair with your favorite heeled boots or clogs. The fit: High rise, fitted through the hip and thigh, breaking above the knee into a flare. 

  • 92% Cotton, 6% Polyester, 2% Elastane
  • True to size
  • Size 27:
    • Inseam – 32 ¾”
    • Front Rise – 11 ¼”
    • Back rise – 15 ⅜”
  • Made in Mexico

My thoughts:

Sustainable Flare Jeans made by an ethical brand, yes please! I’m all in with the Ashleigh Flare jeans – I mean, the name alone is a winner. I think ABLE nailed it on this flare jean style. The Ashleigh Flare has just the right amount of stretch for all-day wearability and comfort. At 32 3/4″ the inseam hits just right for a full length jean. I’m wearing a 2.5″ heel in these photos, but I can also wear my high top sneakers with these jeans. If you are petite you may have to get these hemmed or plan to wear heels with them.

I’m wearing these in my true size. I recommend sizing up if you are between sizes or need extra room in the waist. Currently, ABLE offers this style in just one color – vintage indigo.

ABLE Clothing Denim Guide

That’s all of the current denim styles ABLE offers for sustainable jeans. I’ll continue to update as they release more styles.

If you have any questions about fit drop a comment below.

*this post contains affiliate links. That means I make a commission if you purchase through my links (with no expense to you). Thank you for supporting this blog.

Instagram is kinda my place. Come say hello!