about denim
A DEEP DIVE INTO ONE OF THE MOST ICONIC FABRICS OF ALL TIME - DENIM
Whether you're a denim enthusiast, a fashion lover, or simply someone who values comfort, history, and craftsmanship, this is where I dig into denim's full story.
I've split this part of the blog into two threads: "Making Jeans" and "About Denim."
Making Jeans
Here, I walk you through the craft itself - from choosing the right fabric to the finishing touches that turn cloth into a pair of jeans. Along the way, I look at the legendary brands and mills that shaped how denim is made, and the standards they set for everyone who came after them.
About Denim
Here, I trace denim's cultural journey - the heritage of indigo dyeing, the decades that reshaped men's fashion around it, and the pieces that turned into symbols of rebellion, identity, and timeless style. These are the stories behind the classics we still wear today.
Join me as I celebrate denim in all its forms - its influence on menswear, its role in shaping movements, and its place at the heart of modern maverick style. And if jeans are where your curiosity starts rather than ends, you'll find that same eye for craft and history carried over into Maverick Wear and Design Eye, the other two threads of this blog.
The Indigo Experience: From Plant to Pigment
Indigo, a colour that has captured the imagination of cultures across the globe for centuries, holds a mystique that goes beyond mere aesthetics. Derived from the leaves of the indigofera plant, this deep blue pigment carries a rich history, symbolism, and a unique production process that spans cultures and eras. In this exploration of The Indigo Experience, we embark on a journey from the cultivation of the indigo plant to the transformation of its leaves into the iconic blue dye. The dye has left an indelible mark on art, fashion, and tradition.
The Indigo Experience: Indigo, colour that has transcended time, culture, and art forms.
Indigo, a colour with a rich tapestry of history and cultural significance, emerges as a timeless muse in the world of fashion and textiles. Its deep, enigmatic shades have gracefully adorned fabrics across diverse cultures and historical epochs, etching an indelible mark on our shared aesthetic heritage. …
The Art of Raw: Why Japanese Selvedge Denim?
When we step into the realm of denim, we're not just talking about a piece of fabric; we're entering a world of craftsmanship, history, and distinctive character. At the forefront of this denim journey is a term that resonates deeply with enthusiasts: selvedge denim. …
The Art of Raw: The Appeal of Japanese Selvedge Denim
Within the realm of denim, there exists a phenomenon that goes beyond fabric. Japanese selvedge denim embodies an intricate fusion of art, craftsmanship, and individuality. This exceptional denim has successfully captured the hearts of both denim connoisseurs and fashion-forward enthusiasts worldwide. But what lies beneath the surface of its allure? …
The Art of Raw: The Production of Japanese Selvedge Denim
In the realm of fashion, Japanese selvedge denim is more than just a fabric; it's a masterpiece that encapsulates the essence of meticulous craftsmanship. Crafted with unwavering dedication, each step of its production is an ode to artistry. Join us on a journey through the creation of Japanese selvedge denim, where we unravel the intricacies and passion that define this remarkable fabric.
The Art of Raw: Characteristics of Japanese Selvedge Denim
If you share my passion for raw denim, you're likely well-acquainted with the allure of Japanese selvedge denim. This exceptional fabric, revered for its exceptional quality and one-of-a-kind traits, has carved a special place in the hearts of denim enthusiasts across the globe.
But what sets Japanese selvedge denim apart and makes it so extraordinary?
The Art of Raw: History of Japanese Selvedge Denim
Denim, a fabric that transcends generations and styles, holds a special place in the heart of fashion enthusiasts worldwide. While denim originates from the United States, its journey across the globe has given rise to unique and rich denim cultures…
The Art of Raw: The Japanese Selvedge Denim
Denim is more than just a fabric – it's an art form. And when it comes to raw denim, few can match the craftsmanship and beauty of Japanese selvedge denim. With its rich history, traditional production methods, and unique characteristics …
Denim Culture Today: The Role of social media in Shaping Denim Culture
Denim has evolved from humble workwear to a global fashion phenomenon, and one of the key drivers of its widespread popularity today is social media. Social media platforms like Instagram, Pinterest, and TikTok have become powerful tools …
Denim Culture Today: The Impact of Denim on Popular Culture
Denim is a fabric that has transcended its humble beginnings as durable workwear and has made its mark on popular culture significantly. From classic blue jeans to denim jackets, skirts, and dresses, denim has become an iconic element …
Denim Culture Today: Exploring the Evolution of Denim
Denim, the iconic fabric that has been a staple in fashion for over a century, continues to captivate us with its versatility, durability, and timeless appeal. From its humble beginnings as workwear for miners and cowboys to its status as a global …
Spinning: Ring spinning vs. open-end spinning (pros and cons)
Ring spinning and open-end spinning are two common methods used in the textile industry for spinning fibres into yarn. Each method has its pros and cons, …
Spinning: What it is and the different methods
Spinning is the process of converting fibres into yarn, which is a continuous strand of fibres used in various textile applications. The spinning process involves twisting the fibres together to create a cohesive and continuous strand of yarn …
Cotton: Types and characteristics
As a denim enthusiast and a regular reader of our site, you are aware of the endless variety of fabrics that raw denim offers. From different weights to dyes, stitching, and other intricate details, each pair of jeans is like a unique …
Indigo: What Is Indigo? The history and types of indigo
What Is Indigo? Indigo is the colour that makes blue jeans blue. The indigo colour originated in India. The name "indigo" comes from the Greek word "indikón", which in Latin became "indicum", and the meaning originally was simply "a fabric from India". Indigo is one of the very oldest dyes still in use today.
Cotton: what it is, how it is made, special characteristics and use
Cotton is a natural fiber obtained from the flower of the cotton plant. When spun, it produces a soft and durable yarn that is excellent for dyeing and weaving. The longer the fibers, the higher the quality of the yarn.
Measuring & size guide
Before conducting the measurements, it is important to distinguish these two things; are the jeans made from a fabric which contains stretch (very modern today) or if the jeans are already worn-in. As these two facts will influence the outcome. If the jeans are made of …
Selvedge vs. Normal Denim
There are two different ways to weave denim: with or without a shuttle. Weaving with a shuttle is the traditional way. The shuttle is substantially necessary; it guides the weft thread through the warp shed.
Beginner’s Guide
What is denim? How is it made? Where does cotton come from? Why are jeans only blue on the outside? This beginner's guide gives answers and overview of how denim is made.