Who Produces The Nicest Unwashed Jeans?

Edwin Japanese fashion has a long-standing obsession with denim, dating back to the early 1950s. French label A.P.C. produces some of the best entry-level raw denim, including Levi’s, Nudie Jeans, and Samurai jeans. Raw denim is considered the Holy Grail for true denim nerds, but it is important to understand its differences from selvedge jeans, wash instructions, and where to find the best raw denim.

This guide lists over 20 makers of the best men’s selvedge jeans, including Shockoe Atelier, Tanuki, Naked and Famous, Iron Heart Denim, Hiroshi Kato, Nudie Jeans, Todd Snyder’s jeans, Levi 501, Drake’s, M and S, Left field and Greaspoint workwear, TCB Slim 50s, and Nudie. These brands capture iconic periods from denim’s past and offer a wide variety of styles.

Two Cats Brand and Taking Care of Business create jeans that capture iconic periods from denim’s past, such as the Slim 50s. Other respected brands include Naked and Famous, Iron Heart, TCB, Benzak, The Flat Head, Samurai, Warehouse, Big John, Mister Freedom, and Nudie.

The best selvedge denim jeans brands include Todd Shelton, Tellason, 3sixteen, Rogue Territory, Brave Star Selvedge, and Naked and Famous. Each brand offers a great-looking pair of Levi’s, a flattering, lightweight pair for $50, and a high-quality pair made from thicker denim.

In summary, every brand is in on raw denim jeans, from high-end Japanese jawnz to classic old school Levi’s. This guide provides expert ratings for these brands based on fit, price, comfort, and style.

Is Japanese denim raw denim?

Japan is renowned for its production of raw indigo selvedge denim, and boasts a number of distinguished spinning mills, including Kurabo, Kaihara, Japan Blue Group, Kuroki, and Nihon Menpu. These mills have expertise in natural indigo dyeing, rope dyeing, and ring-spun selvedge denim. They collaborate with esteemed brands such as 3sixteen, Taylor Stitch, RRL, and Edwin.

Why is Japanese denim the best?

Japanese denim is renowned for its durability, softness, and distinctive texture, thanks to its careful selection of materials. High-grade, long-staple cotton from Zimbabwe or the United States is used, and the finest threads are used to weave its magic. Traditional indigo dyeing techniques are employed to create deep and captivating hues, with brands like Pure Blue Japan, Studio D’Artisan, and Japan Blue pushing the boundaries with traditional and experimental dyes.

Selvedge denim, a narrow band found on both ends of the fabric, prevents unraveling and fraying while providing an aesthetically pleasing clean finish. Japanese producers customize this selvedge through threads, weight, color, and contrast, allowing denimheads to find their perfect match, tailored to their unique preferences. Overall, Japanese denim is a blend of tradition and modernity, showcasing the versatility and quality of Japanese denim.

What are the disadvantages of raw denim?

Raw denim, also known as “dry denim”, is a type of jeans made from denim that has not undergone a pre-washing process. This type of jeans are stiff and take a few weeks of regular wear to break-in. Raw denim comes in two types: sanforized and unsanforized. Sanforized denim has a chemical treatment that prevents shrinkage after washing, and most mass-produced jeans are sanforized. Unsanforized denim hasn’t been treated with this shrink-preventing chemical, so when washing or soaking jeans, they will shrink by 5-10.

Selvedge denim is a type of denim produced on shuttle looms, which produce tightly woven strips of heavy fabric with finished edges to prevent fraying, raveling, or curling. The edges come out of the loom finished, making it known as having a “self-edge” denim. The pros and cons of raw denim are discussed in the pros and cons section.

Is Uniqlo jeans Japanese denim?

Since 1998, DRY has been in partnership with Kaihara, a top denim manufacturer in Hiroshima, Japan. Their most famous denim, selvedge denim, is woven using old-fashioned shuttle looms and is known for its durability. Selvedge jeans are often sold untreated and raw, making them stiff when first worn. However, as they wear, they become entirely your own, fading and creaseing according to your movement and pocket placement. The denim softens to fit your body, making them a versatile choice for any wardrobe. The DRY Crew Neck T-Shirt and Stretch Selvedge Slim Fit Jeans are two popular options for this style.

What is high quality denim called?

Selvedge denim, derived from the word “self-edge”, is a high-quality, durable fabric known for its clean, natural edge. It is woven on traditional shuttle looms and is renowned for its classic look and robust feel. Stretch denim, infused with a small percentage of elastane or spandex, offers flexibility and comfort, making it popular for everyday wear. Acid-washed denim, a faded, almost marbled appearance, is a popular choice for fashion enthusiasts who want to make a bold statement. This type of denim is often associated with rebellious 1980s styles and is a go-to for fashion enthusiasts.

Which country has the best quality jeans?

The Todd Shelton Brands faced challenges in establishing a relationship with American selvedge denim mills, as they cater to cost-focused brands and quality-focused brands. The brand spent two years trying to establish a relationship with the mill, but faced issues with stock availability and ‘Made in America’ labels. The brand asked the mill to select popular denims and develop an in-stock program for small designers, but received zero response. This situation highlights the difference in customer focus between the US and Japanese mills, which can lead to a lack of loyalty and support for American brands.

Which country makes the best jeans?

The Japanese are the most advanced denim consumers globally, valuing and understanding the art of denim. Post-WWII, Japanese youth developed a fascination with American culture, particularly through movies and movie stars who wore jeans. This fascination with American culture, particularly James Dean and Clint Eastwood, endeared denim as the fabric American rebels wore, resulting in a strong Japanese fan base for the best denim.

What happens if you wash raw denim regularly?

Washing raw denim often does not accelerate fades, as each wash will lose some indigo. However, the indigo loss will be uniform. For sharper honeycombs and whiskers, frequent washing is not recommended. For vintage fades, washing frequently is necessary. Striking a balance between crisp
fade patterns and clean jeans is crucial. If you prioritize keeping jeans dark and fades crisp, you may sacrifice cleanliness and longevity. Therefore, it’s essential to consider the overall appearance of your jeans when choosing the right washing method.

Does Levi use raw denim?

The earliest Levi’s blue jeans were made with raw denim, a sturdy and stiff material used primarily for workwear. Today, raw denim is widely adopted for its long-lasting quality and unique signs of wear over time, providing an unmatched kind of personalization. The fabric’s untouched state allows each pair of jeans to show unique signs of wear over time. For those looking to buy their first pair or are curious, Levi’s® Denim Dictionary offers a comprehensive guide to raw denim fits for men and women.

Is raw denim 100% cotton?

Raw denim, a type of fabric that hasn’t been washed, treated, or distressed, is stiffer and sturdier than washed denim commonly found in stores. It is typically 100 cotton and can be made into various shapes and styles. Clothing made from “selvage” fabric lasts longer due to its tighter weave produced on a shuttle loom. Although raw denim can be more expensive than regular jeans, it offers a larger payoff over time.

It doesn’t fade or wear out, and should be soaked and dried every four to six months. This reduces energy and water usage, as well as the carbon emissions of manufacturers. Raw denim is also safe for workers in positions where they may be exposed to harsh chemicals and sand-blasters.

Which is the best denim brand in the world?

Levi’s is a well-known denim brand known for its vintage-style, no-stretch 501s and Emma Chamberlain collaboration. Weekday, a gem of the H and M group, is a well-kept secret for denim among style insiders. Weekday’s jeans are so popular that they landed a spot in Lyst’s round-up of fashion’s most popular brands and products. The Astro Loose Baggy, available in various hues, is an editor favorite. ASOS bought Topshop from Arcadia group administrators in 2021, causing shares in the conglomerate to slump, similar to how expectations of the former high street diamond would fare.