What many would consider a book-like fabric, denim opens a window onto the lifestyle of the wearer. Deeply rooted in its ability to develop over time, denim evolves in tandem with one’s needs, crafting a completely unique style story with each new wear, and each new wash.
Ever since Levi Strauss devised the concept of “blue jeans” in 1873, denim has grown to become a fabric that forsakes the formality of ageless alternatives, surpassing the likes of chino cloth with pure, unadulterated personality. As a result, denim has come to be welcomed across a number of fashion’s many circles, from the most formal, to the falling-apart kind-of casual seen on celebrities. However, as denim begins to flood the market, carving through the noise can prove challenging.
In light of this, we have rounded up a selection of the best denim products from around the world to buy right now.
American Denim
It goes without saying that America and its denim tradition very much blazed the trail for the rest of the world. Essentially laying the foundation for most of today’s “traditional silhouettes,” stalwart brands such as Levi’s and Lee now run parallel to newer iterations from Gucci, S.R. STUDIO. LA. CA., and many more.
Levi's Urban Renewal Vintage 501 Indigo Jean
If you’re in the market for a no-bulshit silhouette, then you needn’t look any further than a pair of Levi’s 501 jeans. Everything from the cut, through to the wash, have been perfected thanks to centuries of trade and practice.
Dickies Carpenter Jean
The Carpenter Jean from Dickies is an undisputed heavyweight in the world of denim. Featuring a relaxed, box-like cut, the pair’s pocket arrangement, reinforced knee panels, and hammer hook are subtle elements that speak to the design’s utilitarian beginnings.
Who Decides War by MRDR BRVDO Unified Embroidered Jeans
Regarded for its continued collaboration with Virgil Abloh, Who Decides War by MRDR BRVDO situates itself on the more expressive side of denim. The Unified Embroidered Jeans are a collage of fabric and slapdash embroidery.
Japanese Brands
Having grown to become the stuff of legend, Japanese denim is widely regarded as some of the best in the world. Revered for its unparalleled quality, brands such as Kapital are ushering in a new way of working with the fabric, essentially serving to strengthen the advances made by the likes of Evisu, Pure Blue Japan, and Samurai Jeans.
Kapital Cotton-Chambray Jacket
As a leading figure in contemporary Japanese denim, this kimono-inspired layer from Kapital is a traditional powerhouse; from its styling, down to its production. Despite the jacket not being a denim one, its soft blue cotton-chambray fabric is enough to have you thinking otherwise.
C.E Denim Bucket Hat
Indicative of Cav Empt’s more youthful edge, its Denim Bucket Hat is awash with influences. On one hand, you might find it lost deep in a gabber rave, whereas on the other, you might see it on a shelf, in an arcade, next to some lo-fi graphic goods.
Kapital Indigo Double Gauze Kesa Scarf
Staying warm this winter doesn’t need to be a hassle. With pieces like the Indigo Double Gauze Kesa Scarf from Kapital, you can wrap up in seconds.
European Brands
The list of European brands regarded for their denim goods is seemingly endless. Having experienced a special kind of popularity in the experimental days of Maison Martin Margiela, contemporary brands such as A.P.C., Eckhaus Latta, and Our Legacy continue to push the envelope forward, merging denim with Europe‘s very distinct aesthetic sensibilities.
Off-White™ Painted Distressed Denim Trucker Jacket
Designed in Italy, this hand-painted number from the SS19 Off-White™ collection draws parallels to the great works of Monet and Renoir. Far departed from traditional denim gear, this piece is full of just as much personality as you’d expect to find in an expertly worn-in pair.
Our Legacy Blue Formal Cut Jeans
True to form, Our Legacy has once again proven successful in reinterpreting the most traditional of fashion forms. Switching up the classic straight-cut pant, the Swedish powerhouse has updated the design with a formal centre seam.
Y/Project Cowboy Bootcut Jeans
These are, without a shadow of a doubt, one of my favorite pieces from this entire roundup. Y/Project’s Cowboy Bootcut Jeans are the epitome of “wow-moment” fashion. While the silhouette seems all but traditional, it is not until you pass your eyes over the decorative bootcut hem that you realize just how special these jeans really are.
A.P.C x Carhartt Large Logo-Print Denim Tote Bag
Having recently released the collection exclusively on Highsnobiety, the latest A.P.C. x Carhartt collection is full of washed blue must-haves. This tote in particular is great for just about any occasion.
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