Ready-to-Wear
How to Buy Designer Denim
Premium denim is one of the few luxury categories that improves with wear — provided you buy the right weight and resist the washing machine.
Selvedge, rigid or stretch
Selvedge denim woven on shuttle looms has a clean self-finished edge and fades personally to the wearer. Rigid non-selvedge is nearly as good and cheaper. Stretch denim is comfortable immediately but loses shape and rarely lasts more than two seasons.
Weight matters
Ten to twelve ounces is light and year-round. Thirteen to sixteen ounces is the classic weight with strong fade potential. Above eighteen ounces, denim is a project, not a wardrobe staple.
Fit and rise
Rigid denim relaxes about half an inch in the waist, so buy snug. A high rise elongates the leg; mid rise is the versatile default. Have the hem chain-stitched to preserve the roping effect at the edge.
Washing
Wash rarely, inside out, in cold water with a mild detergent, then hang dry. Frequent hot washing flattens fades and shrinks the leg.
Before You Buy
- Decide between selvedge, rigid and stretch
- Pick a weight that suits daily wear
- Buy rigid denim slightly snug
- Wash cold, inside out, and hang dry
Private Appointments
Personal sourcing, authentication and styling — by appointment only.
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