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Happy almost Galentine’s Day!
When I saw ABLE’s spring lookbook, I knew I wanted to put together a look that was appropriate for this season of love without being overly romantic. I don’t think it’s anti-feminist to dress up for my husband, but there’s something nice about embracing a look for yourself, and putting things together that feel flattering and intentional, but maybe in a less conventional way.
It’s still cold outside (well, today it’s in the 60s, but when I took these photos, it was in the low 50s), so I got creative with layers to pull off this look. One thing I really love about ABLE is that their clothing and accessories don’t subscribe to the typical boxy neutrals of many ethical fashion brands. Each piece has attitude, which means you can dress up your simple pieces with some snakeskin sandals or put everything together for a bit more eccentricity. These days I am embracing eccentricity, so I decided to wear everything together in this look.
ABLE’s Ethics
Nashville-based ABLE has a specific goal of empowering women in the US and abroad by providing fair wage, secure, purposeful jobs. Their current line of denim, cotton separates, jewelry, and handbags are made in Mexico, Peru, Nashville, Brazil, and Ethiopia in factories that have been audited for ethics. What’s more, ABLE is in the process of publishing wages (with context) for all of their production locations. You can view information about their Nashville facility here. I’m planning to do a deep dive into the reports as soon as more are published. Even though the data isn’t yet complete, I’m excited about the implications of this type of transparency.
ABLE does use leather products, but raw materials are sourced from local meat industries in the region of production. I am still in a period of exploration on this topic, but Alden at EcoCult just published a couple really good discussions around the ethics of leather: here and here. My current thought on leather is that it’s an ethical choice if purchased from a company that prioritizes local, meat-industry derived sourcing and a focus on quality. If it can be used for years and years, the ambiguity is reduced at point of purchase.
What I’m Wearing
Isabel Slouchy Moto Denim
These were perfect right out of the box, which is more than I can say for most jeans. I ordered in my usual size 29 and they fit pretty much like they do on the model, with a lower rise and slightly slouchy fit. They are a little bit wide at the waist, which is typical for my “pear shape,” but fit so well in the hip and thigh that they don’t slide down, and they don’t stretch out too much with wear either, though I would say if you prefer a tighter fit, you may want to size down.
Gisela Sandal
Coming in April, these sandals are so fun! The gray is neutral enough to go with everything else in my closet, but the faux-snakeskin effect adds texture. I find these true to size, well proportioned, and comfortable, though so far I’ve only worn them with socks due to the weather.
Marina Earrings
I wear a lot of statement earrings with my short hair, and these add much needed color and pattern to my winter outfits, which tend to be very neutral. They’re also lightweight and comfortable for several hours of wear.
I’m also wearing a hand-me-down Eileen Fisher sweater from my friend’s mom!
I’ve reviewed ABLE products in the past (the Tigist Crossbody, which I tend to bring back out in the spring, and a customized necklace), but after being able to sample more of their product line, I’ve decided that ABLE is becoming one of my preferred ethical brands. I find that their pieces are special and well made, and align really well with my personal sense of style.
Shop ABLE here.
Leah Wise
Leah Wise is the founder of StyleWise Blog. She has been writing, speaking, and consulting on sustainable fashion, the fair trade and secondhand supply chain, and digital marketing for over ten years. An Episcopal priest, Leah holds a B.A. in Religion from Florida State University and an M.Div. from Yale Divinity School. When not working, you can find her looking for treasures at the thrift store.