The Apparel Digest Report
Denim is a sturdy cotton warp-faced textile in which the weft passes under two or more warp threads. This twill weave produces a diagonal ribbing that distinguishes it from cotton duck. Denim, as it is recognized today, was first produced in Nîmes, France.
The main difference between denim and jeans is that denim is a fabric, while jeans are a garment (specifically, a type of pants). Denim is a durable cotton fabric typically used for making various clothes, including jeans.
Denim is available in a range of colors, but the most common denim is indigo denim in which the warp thread is dyed while the weft thread is left white. As a result of the warp-faced twill weaving, one side of the textile is dominated by the blue warp threads, and the other side is dominated by the white weft threads. Jeans fabricated from this cloth are thus predominantly white on the inside. Denim is used to create a wide variety of garments, accessories, and furniture.
Denim has been used in the United States since the mid-19th century. Denim initially gained popularity in 1873 when Jacob W. Davis, a tailor from Nevada, manufactured the first pair of rivet-reinforced denim pants. The popularity of denim jeans outstripped the capacity of Davis’s small shop, so he moved his production to the facilities of dry goods wholesaler Levi Strauss & Co., which had been supplying Davis with bolts of denim fabric.
Why are jeans always in fashion?
- Jeans has versatility.
- Butt looks better.
- Jeans are super easy to style.
- Jeans feel worth the investment.
- Jeans are always durable.
- Jeans hide stains so well.
- No worries for washing it regularly.
Jeans are one of the few items of clothing that never truly go out of fashion. If you’re getting dressed up or simply tossing something on for a relaxed day out, a good pair of jeans always does the trick. Over the years, denim has taken on countless forms, but two of the most talked-about styles are skinny jeans and baggy jeans. Skinny jeans are tight, whereas baggy jeans are loose and relaxed in fit. Both trends have had their time in the spotlight, with each putting its own twist on the denim world.
Let’s begin with skinny jeans, a style known for its tight, form-fitting design that hugs the body from the waist to the ankles. Made with stretchy fabrics like elastane or spandex, they offer a close yet comfortable fit, making them particularly popular among younger generations who want both comfort and style. In the mid-2000s, celebrities and rock stars made skinny jeans a fashion staple. They were a step toward slimmer and more form-fitting shapes. They’re very easy to pair with almost anything because of how sleek they are, whether you’re going for a casual look or to go out in the evening. For women, wear them with crop tops or sweaters that are too big on them. For men, wear them with fitted shirts or thick knit pullovers to balance out the slim fit. When it comes to shoes, women can wear ankle boots, high-top sneakers, or heels. Men can wear sneakers or Chelsea boots. Belts and necklaces worn stacked on top of each other can give an outfit more style.
Skinny jeans come in different cuts, like cropped, high-rise, and mid-rise, so you can style them to fit your body type and style. They are especially good for slim or petite body types because they make the legs look longer. Some find them uncomfortable if the fit is too tight or the fabric isn’t stretchy enough. Also, the tight fit may make it hard to move, so they may not be the best choice for days when you want to be busy. In warmer climates, the tight fit and thicker fabrics can make skinny jeans less breathable, contributing to discomfort. Although they can be worn in many situations, they might not be the best choice for more formal events or places of work with strict dress code. Even with these problems, skinny jeans are still a clothing essential and can make a strong fashion statement if worn in the right way.
Baggy jeans, on the other hand, are loose-fitting denim pants that offer a relaxed look. In the 1980s and 1990s, baggy jeans were popular with streetwear and hip-hop culture. But as skinny jeans became more popular in the 2000s, baggy jeans slowly lost their appeal. However, during the pandemic period in 2020-2021, the demand for comfort led to a resurgence of relaxed fits like baggy jeans. This change also shows how fashion tastes vary between generations. Gen Z likes the open, laid-back fit, while Millennials grew up wearing skinny jeans and might still be in denial about the trend’s revival.
For women, baggy jeans pair well with fitted tops like form-fitting tees or cropped jackets. Men style them with oversized T-shirts, hoodies, or flannel shirts for a relaxed vibe. Footwear like sneakers, loafers, or boots completes the look, with accessories adding a personal touch. The extra volume can make some looks look heavy, so they might not work for all body types. Because they are relaxed, it is harder to dress up or wear them to a more formal event. However, loose jeans are still a great choice for people who like to mix comfort and style.
Skinny jeans and baggy jeans each bring something different to the table. Skinny jeans offer a sleek and versatile look, while baggy jeans bring comfort and a laid-back vibe. It all comes down to your own taste and what makes you happy. In the end, the best choice is the one that makes you feel good about yourself and keeps you comfortable.
