If you’re under 5’4″, you know the struggle of finding the perfect pair of jeans. The constant search for the right fit, length, and style can be exhausting and frustrating. But fear not, petite ladies, because Nelle Atelier is here to save the day. This petite fashion brand was created specifically for women under 5’4″, and their jeans are a game-changer.
Nelle Atelier launched in November 2023 with a focus on jeans, but has since expanded into other pants and outerwear, all designed with a petite fit in mind. As someone who stands at 5’2″, I was immediately drawn to this brand after seeing it on petite influencers and fashion editors on my Instagram feed. Jeans are a staple in my wardrobe, but finding the right pair has always been a journey. With mainstream brands, I often have to settle for “petite” or “short” lengths, which limits my options in terms of sizing and color. And when it comes to higher-end denim brands, I either have to spend extra money at the tailor or nervously attempt to cut the jeans myself. It’s never a quick and easy process for me.
But Nelle Atelier offers a variety of styles, from straight-leg and boyfriend jeans to high-rise and low-rise silhouettes. Intrigued by their chic designs, I decided to put myself up for a challenge and try out a pair of jeans I wouldn’t normally reach for – the Nelle Atelier Lily Jean in Kohl ($268). I was excited to see if these jeans would live up to the hype and make my shopping experience easier.
Let me tell you, I was not disappointed.
First, let’s talk about the brand itself. Nelle Atelier currently offers six different styles of jeans – The Lily Jean ($268), The Laura Jean ($278), The Claire Jean ($258), The Maddy Jean ($258), The Kate Jean ($238), and The Gabi Jean ($228). What sets these jeans apart is their use of Candiani denim, a sustainable material created by an Italian denim manufacturer. The fabric varies slightly depending on the style, with some made of 100 percent cotton and others made of 98 percent cotton and 2 percent elastane. This attention to detail and commitment to sustainability is something I appreciate in a brand.
Sizing ranges from 23 to 32, so there’s a size for everyone. And when it comes to caring for your Nelle Atelier jeans, they should be machine-washed cold with like colors and hung to dry or tumbled dry on low. But what really caught my attention was their “try before you buy” program. Through TryNow, you can order four pairs of jeans, try them on at home, and decide within seven days which ones you’d like to keep. This takes the pressure off of making a quick decision in the store and allows you to truly test out the jeans before committing to a purchase.
Now, let’s get to the good stuff – my review of the Nelle Atelier Lily Jeans.
As someone who has always been hesitant to try barrel-leg jeans, I was a bit nervous about the fit of the Lily Jean. But I was pleasantly surprised. The jeans are fitted at the hips, baggy down the legs, and tapered at the ankles, creating a flattering and trendy silhouette. I followed the brand’s recommendation and sized up one size, ordering a size 27, and they fit perfectly. The jeans are roomy enough for everyday wear, but also structured in all the right places. And the versatility of these jeans is unmatched. They can be dressed up or down, depending on the occasion, and always look stylish.
The denim fabric is also top-notch. Made of 100 percent rigid cotton, it feels high-quality and durable. I prefer jeans made with 100 percent cotton because they tend to mold to the body over time and last longer. And let’s not forget the most important factor – the length. As a petite woman, I always struggle with finding jeans that are the right length. While the inseam of the Lily Jean is slightly shorter than I’d prefer, I expected this based on the measurements provided by the brand. It’s important to take your measurements and refer to the size chart before purchasing to ensure the perfect fit.
If you’re interested in trying out Nelle Atelier jeans for yourself, you can shop on their website or at
