Beginner’s Guide: Start (or Continue) Your Raw Denim Journey Here

We've all been new to raw denim at some point. Enter Denimhunters!

Author

Thomas Stege Bojer
August 02, 2024

What is up denim people?!? It’s Thomas from Denimhunters in your inbox again.

This is the 6th weekly newsletter you’re getting since I got back into the rhythm of sending these—a bit proud of myself for keeping up the phase here while being on holiday with the family for the past three weeks 😎

And since this is effectively a relaunch of my newsletter, I wanted to (re)introduce myself and Denimhunters with a ‘new to raw denim’ guide:

Okay, so since the late ‘00s, I’ve been knee-deep in the raw denim world, sharing my (slightly obsessive) passion with folks like you. If you're reading this, at some point, you’ve surely been wondering what makes raw denim so special. That’s how it all started for me too.

When I launched Denimhunters in early 2011, I wanted to understand raw denim. Because it’s not just fabric; it’s an experience. It’s about jeans that become a second skin, reflecting your life’s adventures in every crease and fade.

This is what you get from Denimhunters (and this guide):

  • Raw Denim FAQs: Clear, straightforward answers to all those burning questions that anyone new to raw denim will inevitably have.

  • Buying, Wearing, and Fading Tips: From choosing your first pair to getting those killer fades.

  • In-Depth Resources: Dive into detailed articles and guides that’ll turn you into a raw denim pro.

Denimhunters is a place where denim enthusiasts come together to appreciate the journey as much as the destination.

Whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned vet, I’m here to guide you, answer your questions, and maybe share a laugh or two. So buckle up and get ready to dive into the wonderful (and slightly obsessive) world of raw denim with me.

Ready to embark on a journey with me? Your jeans—and your wardrobe—will thank you!

BEGINNER’S GUIDE

UNDERSTANDING RAW DENIM

Raw denim is like a blank canvas that tells your story. Unlike pre-washed jeans, raw denim preserves the rich, dark indigo in its purest form.

What is Raw Denim?

Raw denim, or dry denim, moulds to your body and reveals stunning fades over time. While it may undergo treatments like sanforization, it skips the garment finishes. Selvedge denim, often raw, is woven on traditional shuttle looms with a self-finished edge.

Learn more:

Why Choose Raw Denim?

For the love of the fade! Raw denim offers unique character and wear patterns. Each pair reflects your daily life and builds a special bond.

Dive deeper:

BEGINNER’S GUIDE

CHOOSING THE PERFECT PAIR

Finding the right raw denim jeans can feel daunting, but with some key considerations, you can find the perfect pair for your style and body type.

How to Select Raw Denim

Consider fit, fabric weight, and style. Fit is crucial—whether skinny, slim, or straight, make sure it complements your body shape. Fabric weight impacts comfort and durability. Style details like pocket design and stitching make a difference.

Explore these resources:

Budgeting for Raw Denim

Raw denim can be pricey, but you don’t need to break the bank. Set a budget and find quality jeans within your range.

For more on budgeting, check out:

BEGINNER’S GUIDE

MAKING THE PURCHASE

So, you’ve decided to take the plunge and buy raw denim jeans. Exciting times! Here’s how to choose the right brand and where to buy them.

Choosing a brand is like picking a long-term partner. You want quality, reliability, and wow factor. Top-shelf choices include brands like Iron Heart, BENZAK, and Tellason. Budget-friendly options include Gustin and SOSO.

Where to Buy Raw Denim 

Most brands sell directly, but reliable raw denim retailers can offer more variety. We work with a wide range of shops like Redcast Heritage, Franklin & Poe, Blue in Green, Hinoya, Corlection, Clutch Café, Cultizm, and Division Road, which all offer top-notch quality and service.

(Full disclosure, we are affiliate partners of these brands and shops and may earn a commission when you click on the links above and buy something. That’s how we make money with Denimhunters; all at no extra cost to you.)

BEGINNER’S GUIDE

WEARING AND CARING FOR RAW DENIM

Once you have yourself a new pair of raw denim jeans comes the really fun part: breaking them in and getting those fades.

How to Break In and Get Fades

The break-in period is exciting. Wear your jeans often and let them mould to your lifestyle. Some enthusiasts have fun with activities that encourage fading, like cycling or hiking.

For more tips:

Raw Denim Care and Washing Tips

Forget the six-month no-wash rule! Proper care is key. Spot clean minor stains, avoid frequent washing, and store in a dry place. Hand-wash or machine-wash on a gentle cycle with cold water. Always turn jeans inside out and use mild detergent. Air dry to maintain shape and colour.

Learn the best care practices:

Repairing Raw Denim Jeans 

Even well-loved jeans need TLC. Learn basic repairs like hand-stitching and using patches. For bigger repairs, sewing machines offer durability. Try sashiko mending for a unique look. If DIY isn’t your thing, professionals like Indigo Proof can help.

While I have written a guide on ‘how to repair jeans’, readers have pointed out in the past that it doesn’t actually show you how to do so in detail 😄 

So for more detailed tips, check out these resources:

By taking good care of your raw denim, you ensure they continue to look and feel great. Enjoy watching your jeans evolve and take pride in the story they tell.