Introduction
There must be hardly anyone who doesn’t have jeans in their wardrobe. This stretchy, durable, and versatile fabric has become a stable presence in our wardrobe. This is a fabric that has stood strong against the test of time, generations, and changes in fashion. Instead of dying out or becoming irrelevant, it changed with the passing of time and went through its own evolution through centuries.
History of Jeans
Jeans have had a most fascinating journey throughout the history of fabrics. From its origin in the Mediterranean region as durable work clothes for labour-heavy workers to the designer premium types of jeans of the high-end fashion industry, it has evolved into a global fashion phenomenon. However, the credit for revolutionizing a simple work outfit into heavy-duty work gear goes to Levi Strauss and Jacob Davis, who strengthened the previously weak stress points by adding metal rivets. From then on, all types of jeans have evolved with time. It travelled all around the world, became a symbol of rebellion and counterculture, and then finally became a status symbol of the present time.
Fabrics, Fits, and Finishes
The foundation: Denim fabric
Rugged, twill-woven cotton fabric is the life of all types of jeans. Known for its durability and comfort, you can find many variations of denim fabric.
- Classic Denim: Classic denim, which is also called “blue jeans” occasionally, is a go-to choice for many. Its medium-weight cotton twill woven in a diagonal pattern makes it highly durable and versatile. With its various shades of blue, classic denim has stood strong against the trials of time.
- Stretch Denim: If you prefer a snug fit in denim, stretchy denim is your thing. By weaving elastane into the fabric, producers give this fabric flexibility and make it as comfortable as possible. This fabric is preferred in styles like skinny or slim jeans.
- Raw Denim: These kinds of denim fabric are unwashed, untreated and a purist’s choice. It allows the wearer to break it in and create unique fades and designs with the passage of time. Wearing raw denim is a journey in itself as its character can be shaped with every wear.
- Selvedge Denim: Its name comes from its self-finished edge feature and they are known as durable and tightly woven denim fabric. These types of jeans are crafted on vintage shuttle looms and are high in quality with distinctive looks.
- Corduroy: Wearing denim is hard in winter since they don’t keep out the cold. But the Corduroy jeans is one fabric that will satiate your jeans craving and still give you warmth. This fabric has a thicker and ribbed texture due to its usage of twisted fibres. This makes it more suitable for winter.
Finding the Perfect Fit
A right fit is what makes wearing a pair of jeans feel comfortable and stylish. Here are some of the most common fits.
- Skinny Fit: Skinny jeans are also called form-fitting jeans. People aiming for a sleek and modern look prefer this fit mostly. This style flatters the shape of the body of a wearer as it fits snugly from top to bottom.
- Slim Fit: Although similar to Skinny Fit, Slim Fit types of jeans differ from it slightly as they offer a bit more room in the legs. It balances nicely between slimness and comfort, which makes it ideal for any body type.
- Straight Fit: Straight-fit jeans are classic types of jeans due to their timeless appearance. With its even width from hip to bottom, it gives the wearer a refined look. That is the reason straight-fit jeans are considered suitable for most occasions.
- Bootcut Fit: This fit got its name from its style which is very accommodating to the boots. With its slight flare out from the calf and downwards, it offers a balanced and flattering look to a wearer.
The Art of Finishes
The finish of the jeans is what gives it a distinct look and feel. It also determines their style and characters.
- Washed Jeans: As one of the most popular finishes, these jeans are comfortable and have a broken-in feel. These jeans are pre-treated to give them a worn-in appearance, which softens the fabric and also reduces the shrinkage.
- Distressed Jeans: These jeans carry a vintage and worn appearance. Sporting intentional rips, fades, or whiskering, they have a rugged and lived-in look. These details are said to add character and personality to the jeans.
- Raw Jeans: As the name suggests, it is the jeans with the most original look. Being the unwashed and untreated fabric, it allows the wearer to create their own story through natural wear and tear.
- Stone Washed Jeans: This type of finish is achieved by washing the jeans with pumice stones. After the wash, jeans gains a softer and lighter feel with a more faded colour. This process gives the jeans the look of a beloved piece of cloth that has been worn and washed many times.
While choosing types of jeans, it is important to know the fabric and understand its fits and finishes. Jeans are more than just a piece of clothing, and you should take care while choosing your jeans to fit your style and preferences.
