BLOG

Tip Of The Week: Denim Jackets

Like your go-to pair of jeans, a quality denim jacket can’t be beat for one reason: durability. A must have for spring and fall, they’re always good for those days when you need to layer up for uncertain weather. You can dress it up with a button-down shirt, keep it casual with a tee, or simply incorporate a scarf to stay warm.

In addition to the varying shades of denim, companies are always finding unique ways to flip this style staple with new cuts, designs and interior fabrics. Check out some solid denim jacket choices after the jump.

Popularity: 26% [?]

Tip Of The Week: The Denim Glossary

The terms you should know to be a true denimhead.

SELVAGE: Originally called “self-edge,” it is woven on antique shuttle looms, and is recognizable by the inside seam having a white edge that prevents it from unraveling.

LEFTHAND TWILL: Used by Japanese high-end brands, it’s softer than the more common righthand woven denim.

RISE: The length of fabric from the crotch seam to the top of the waistband.

RIVETS: The metal tabs that are placed at the stress points to prevent tearing, most commonly on pockets.

WHISKERING: A fading of the ridges and creases in the hip, crotch, and knees that gives the appearance of aged denim.

Popularity: 84% [?]

Tip Of The Week: Organic Denim 101

Sweatshop-free clothing was a good start, but what about Mother Earth’s pain and suffering? Nowadays, brands like Loomstate are becoming more globally conscious of the way they manufacture their premium denim. In the ongoing battle of conventional methods versus organic, Complex asked Loomstate to break down for our readers the real reasons why going green with their jeans is the way to go. Do the knowledge after the jump.

Popularity: 85% [?]

Brand Profile: Real Real Genuine

Photo: SlamXHype

One brand that doesn’t skimp on authenticity is Real Real Genuine. No, really—RRG is their name, fine denim and leather shoe craftsmanship is their game. Founder Richard Hobbs (formerly of Pepe Jeans, Mecca USA and Alphanumeric) launched the company late last year and has already earned a wealth of fanfare for his limited pieces. But the exclusivity of RRG isn’t about keeping up with the streetwear-jones’—all the the denim is individually numbered, so none are exactly like the other. They’ve got something for everyone with styles range from loose to skinny. Buy your own pair of Real Real Genuine jeans at Complex’s own Platinum Club store in NYC (1079 6th Ave at 41st Street). See a few shots from RRG’s spring 2008 line after the jump.

Popularity: 84% [?]

Tip of the Week: Denim 101

Illustration by Mike Davis

Owning a pair of jeans means much more than having the receipt to prove it. Every detail from the fit in the waist to the cuff must meet your needs—you’re the one that has to wear it. So make it yours with these simple denim-related tips. After the jump, get instructions on caring for your denim, what to look for when you’re shopping for denim, and the best way to style your denim.

Popularity: 85% [?]

Evisu & Zippo Spark Up A Denim Lighter

When you’re out at the bar, there’s nothing worse than filling out one of those cigarette company surveys, only to receive a useless Zippo with no lighter fluid in it as a prize. Luckily, Zippo has found a better business partner in Japanese denim’s marquee brand, Evisu. The two companies have teamed up to create the denim lighter, a nice little accessory with a pocket and detailing similar to Evisu’s jeans. They even come with a chain, in case you’re swag-splashing like the Capo. Right now, they’re only available in Japan for 14,700 Yen (about $143) at Ripe. After the jump, check out some closer detail shots.

Popularity: 84% [?]

Tip Of The Week: Denim-Proof Your Kicks

Illustration by Mike Davis

Don’t let your kicks look like Papa Smurf slipped in his blue ankles for a ride. With this week’s handy-dandy trick, keep the dye on your jeans, and keep that pearly white on your sneakers in tact.

HOW TO…PROTECT YOUR KICKS FROM RAW DENIM.

If you want to avoid blue stains from dyed indigo jeans on your crispy white kicks, pick a fabric pattern you like and instruct your cleaner to sew it as a lining. It will save your sneaks and makes for a fancy cuff.

Check back each week and read the new issue of Complex for more style tips.

Popularity: 88% [?]