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In the ever – evolving landscape of menswear, where trends ebb and flow like the tides, few items have the staying power of a well – crafted pair of jeans. Jeans, which originated as practical work attire in the 1800s, have firmly established themselves as a cornerstone of American fashion, gracing closets around the globe. While established brands have long held sway over the denim market, a new wave of innovation has emerged, bringing us stylish and meticulously made jeans that rival, and often surpass, the classics.

The Timelessness of Raw Denim

Among the various denim styles, raw denim stands out as an enduring favorite. It has been a beloved choice among menswear aficionados for decades. But what exactly is it that makes raw denim so special?

Defining Raw Denim

At its core, raw (or rigid) denim is a pair of jeans that has been dyed, typically in indigo, but has not undergone any washing or additional treatment processes. Unlike the pre – washed denim that floods the market, where you can anticipate a consistent look and feel from the moment you purchase, raw denim arrives in a stiffer, more rigid state. The deep, rich indigo color is more pronounced because the fabric has not been manipulated after being cut and sewn.

Raw denim isn’t necessarily superior to your go – to light – wash jeans, but it represents denim in its most unadulterated form. What truly sets it apart is the way it evolves over time. As you wear your raw denim jeans, they will develop unique fades, making each pair a one – of – a – kind reflection of your lifestyle.

Raw Denim vs. Selvedge Denim

It’s important to distinguish between raw denim and another term frequently associated with it: selvedge denim. Raw denim is about the wash and treatment (or lack thereof) of the jeans. Selvedge denim, on the other hand, refers to the narrow, tightly woven bands on the edges of the denim fabric. These bands, known as selvedge ends, prevent the denim from fraying and give the jeans a more refined appearance.

Selvedge jeans are crafted using shuttle looms, a traditional method that results in a more durable and character – rich weave. If you roll up the cuffs of selvedge jeans, you’ll notice a distinct, carefully woven seam. In the past, the color of the ticker (the thread woven over the edge) was indicative of the specific mill that produced the jeans. While many modern brands choose colors for stylistic reasons, some, like us, pay homage to vintage models by using a traditional red ticker.

Although many selvedge denim jeans may also be raw denim, the two terms are not interchangeable.

Caring for Your Raw Denim Jeans

Caring for raw denim requires a bit of finesse due to its untreated nature. Since jeans were originally designed for hard – working environments, don’t be overly precious about a little wear and tear. In fact, that’s what gives them character. For minor dirt or small spots, a simple dab with a wet towel can do the trick. But when it comes to more stubborn stains from oil, mud, or other substances, spot cleaning is a must.

The frequency of washing raw denim is a matter of personal preference (and hygiene, of course). Some purists advocate never washing raw denim, while others swear by unorthodox methods like the so – called “Ocean Wash.” However, we’ve found that this approach is more myth than reality, and we don’t recommend it.

The more you wash your raw denim, the more it will fade. If you desire a deep, high – contrast look, limit your washes to when the jeans are truly dirty. On the other hand, if you prefer a softer, more uniform color, feel free to wash them more often.

Thanks to the indigo dye, denim has some natural resistance to microbes, so it can go a while without a wash. But over time, especially with regular wear, food stains, spills, and body oils will necessitate cleaning.

In most cases, machine – washing your raw denim inside out in cold water works well. This helps minimize indigo bleeding. Alternatively, you can hand – wash them in lukewarm water with a mild, bleach – free cleaner. Agitate gently, rinse in cool water (again, inside out), and then let them air dry.

Wearing Raw Denim with Style

When it comes to wearing raw denim, understanding your fit preferences is key. Remember, denim will shrink after washing but also stretch with wear. If possible, try on a pair in – store to get a sense of how they feel initially and how they might adapt over time. If they’re a bit long, you can always go for a classic cuff or visit your local tailor for a hem. A chain stitch hem is a great option as it creates a beautiful roping effect on the cuff that will fade and enhance the natural beauty of the indigo.

At first, raw denim may feel a bit stiff and scratchy. But like fine leather, it will break in quickly, often after just a few wears. The best way to wear raw denim? Just wear it! The more you do, the better it will conform to your body and movements.

Over time, your raw denim jeans will develop creases that tell the story of your daily life. You might notice lines around the pockets where you keep your essentials. After several wears and washes, the jeans will start to fade and soften naturally, creating a sartorial patina that exudes both personal style and a rugged, timeless charm.

Raw denim pairs perfectly with simple yet classic outfits. Team it up with a heavyweight cotton black tee and leather boots for an all – American look that never goes out of style. Or, dress it up with a pair of sleek loafers and a vintage – inspired oxford shirt. Think of raw denim as a canvas for your personal style experiment. Incorporate it into your wardrobe in a way that reflects your taste and give it a chance to become a staple piece.

If you’re ready to embrace the world of raw denim, we’ve made the process easier for you. Our denim undergoes a unique one – wash treatment that addresses shrinkage while maintaining the deep blue hue of raw denim. This allows you to purchase your true waist size with confidence, knowing that the fit will be just right. Our dedication to quality means you’ll own a pair of expertly crafted raw denim jeans that will accompany you on your style journey for years to come.