IATA and the Airforwarders Association warn that reducing CBP staffing at major gateways in “sanctuary cities” would ripple through supply chains.
DENIM and PATCHES sourced this post originally published on this site
Blog
Don’t Toss ‘Em!: Your Old Jeans Are A Treasure Waiting To Happen
If you’re lucky, you’ll find a perfect fitting pair of jeans that last forever. Not many people have this luck.
ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(102); });
If you are like the rest of us unlucky people, you may find a pair here and there that fits nicely. However, rarely do your best fitting jeans last for a long time.
I mean, if they fit good, you wear them a lot, and they eventually start to show signs of wear.
ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(110); });
You know the ones:
Your favorite pair of jeans gets ripped or worn in certain spots, so you don’t wear them, but you don’t want to get rid of them either.
It is frustrating, but what can you do?
I’m glad you asked.
We have a ton of ideas for what to do with old jeans no matter what’s wrong with them.
ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(111); });
That’s right:
You don’t always have to say goodbye to those faithful old jeans that have gotten you through so much. Plus, it’s just a good thing to find ways to get more use out of clothing. Cause, really, who wants to waste money?
So, do something with your old jeans.
Your Specific Jean Issue
When it comes to deciding what to do with old jeans, the first step is to identify what is wrong with them.
ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(112); });
In other words:
Why aren’t you wearing them?
There are many different reasons, but in almost every case, there is a great solution.
Consider the following possible issues you may have.
Pro tip: Don’t wash your jeans. Well, don’t wash them too often at least. Manufacturers say they will last longer the less you wash them.
Image: by Jyoti via Canva
One Note: If you buy new jeans and they don’t fit, it may not be your fault. Studies have shown that there are serious inconsistencies with sizing for women’s clothing. So, don’t get hung up on the number.
ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(113); });
Pinpoint exactly is what wrong with your jeans. Now, keep reading because we have some creative and fun ideas to help you breathe some new life into your denim.
What to Do With Old Jeans
Old jeans could mean many things. They could be the jeans you used to wear before you gained a little weight.
They could be the jeans you’ve had since high school that have seen you through three relationships, two trips to Cancun, and a few too many late-nights as a new parent.
ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(114); });
Or maybe they’re the jeans you paid way too much money for only to discover the quality is a bit lacking.
Whatever old jeans you have, when you run into problems, it doesn’t mean you should chuck them into the garbage. (And if you’ve already done it, go get them out of the trash right now!)
We have so many great things for you to do with them. You might be able to fix them or alter them for a better fit. You might be able to transform them or recycle them. Someone else may benefit from them if you choose to donate.
ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(115); });
So. Many. Ideas.
Discover your options and create something great with those jeans you thought couldn’t be saved.
Patch it up
A hole in your jeans does not and should not mean the end. You can take care of holes.
Trust me.
Even if you can’t even thread a needle, you can at least apply an iron-on patch.
ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(116); });
However, small holes near seams are best fixed by sewing. It’s actually not that hard to do. You will do yourself a huge favor by learning basic sewing skills.
Some holes are actually trendy, like rips in the knees. So, sometimes you can just leave them alone.
But some holes are embarrassing. Nobody wants peep jeans that show off their underwear.
ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(117); });
If this is your problem, then apply a patch.
Patches can be decorative, but they also can be practical.
A practical patch job starts with trimming away the fraying around the hole. Denim is notorious for fraying along raw edges.
Just cut that away to get a clean hole.
Turn your jeans inside out, and place a matching fabric over the hole.
ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(118); });
Use some fusible, which is sticky stuff that adheres fabric to fabric when heated, and put it around the hole in your jeans.
Lay the scrap fabric on top and go over it with a hot iron.
Now, to ensure this patch stays in place, you should sew around it with a sewing machine, which makes much strong stitching than hand sewing. Turn your jeans right side out and sew. Make sure to go around it a few times.
ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(119); });
Add in a zig-zag stitch for even more strength.
After all:
This already tore once, so it’s an area under stress. You want to make sure your patch stays.
That’s it. You’ve patched things up.
ou can also add decorative patches or use different fabrics to patch holes if you don’t mind them standing out a bit.
Y The process is the exact same as above unless you use an iron-on patch, which you lay over the hole on the outside of the jeans and iron into place.
ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(120); });
Zipper struggles
Who hasn’t had a zipper that didn’t want to cooperate? I’m waiting.
Nobody?
I’m pretty sure we’ve all had zipper issues at one point. It’s just the nature of these metal teethy things.
Don’t get me wrong — the zipper is an amazing invention, but one with some faults.
ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(121); });
Zippers break. They fall apart. They get stuck. They won’t stay up. I think you get the idea.
If you struggle with a zipper issue, it’s not the end of your jeans.
Consider this problem:
Fix it with a keychain!
Yep, just hook the keychain in the zipper pull. Pull the zipper up. Hook the keychain ring around your pants button and button your jeans.
ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(122); });
That zipper isn’t going anywhere.
And this might sound familiar:
Some zippers loose teeth like a first grader.
If you have this problem and the teeth missing are at the bottom, then you can add a zipper stopper or just sewing a thick line right before the missing teeth. If this leaves a gap, sew that up, too.
Your zipper will be shorter, but it will close properly again.
The worst case scenario is you will have to replace the zipper. Don’t freak out on me.
ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(123); });
If you struggle with a zipper issue, it’s not the end of your jeans.
Consider this problem:
Fix it with a keychain!
Yep, just hook the keychain in the zipper pull. Pull the zipper up. Hook the keychain ring around your pants button and button your jeans.
That zipper isn’t going anywhere.
This can be a little complicated, but you can do it if you have a sewing machine.
ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(124); });
Just listen to Debbie:
New zipper complete. That wasn’t so bad.
Now, if your zipper is off track, listen to this expert:
Make it fit
Let’s face it. Most of us will gain a little weight from time to time. Some of us will even lose a little weight. Some jeans may fit right, but they may be a touch too long or a smidgen too short.
This leads to jeans that just don’t fit right anymore.
ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(125); });
Whether your trouble is a waist that’s too tight, a rear that’s too loose, pants that drag the floor, or a look that makes people think you have water wading plans in the near future, we’ve got a solution for you.
Save your jeans, man! Learn the art of alteration.
Going up a size
I’m not going to lie to you.
Making jeans bigger is more difficult than making them smaller. The simple fact is to make something bigger, you have to add to it.
The bad news is:
This could result in an eyesore. So, just be aware of the risks before you start cutting.
ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(126); });
There are two options to make your jeans bigger around the waist area
- Cut at each side seam.
- Cut at the back, middle seam.
It kind of depends on how much bigger you need to make them as to which option to use.
If you need to just go up a couple of inches, then cut at the back, middle seam.
ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(127); });
If you need to go up any more than that, use the side seam method.
Both methods are basically the same in theory.
For the side seam cuts, you want to make your cuts at each side seam on the waistband. Pull them apart, so they look like an inverted triangle.
Or a slice of pizza!
Now, get some scrap denim or fabric and sew it into the triangles.
ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(128); });
Do note that side seam additions are noticeable. You will probably want to wear your jeans with a long top after altering.
On the bright side:
At least the jeans won’t cut off your circulation anymore when you sit down. So, that’s a plus.
The back, middle seam method does require a little more work, but it can be done, so the alteration is hidden.
ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(129); });
You want to first remove the back belt loop by undoing the stitching at the top. Leave the bottom stitched. Cut down the back seam to where the belt loop is still secured.
Add in a piece of fabric to create the inverted triangle. Finish by sewing the belt loop back in place.
Now, this may not show as much, but it also won’t give you a lot of extra room in the waist, so keep that in mind.
ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(130); });
Going down a size
If your jeans are too big, you can make them smaller with a little sewing and cutting. This is easier and less noticeable than letting them out. However, the process is similar.
Again, there are a couple of methods. You can add darts or reduce the back seam.
As before, it depends on how much you need to take them in.
ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(131); });
If you have a gaping waistband, then do the darts.
If the jeans are all over too big, reduce the back seam.
Cut the excess fabric and remove the pins. You’ve done it! Now they will fit like a dream.
ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(132); });
If you’ve got bigger problems and your jeans are just way too loose in the waist, hips, and rear, then you need to take more dramatic steps to alter them.
You want to fold your pants in along the back seam. Pin it.
Now turn your jeans inside out and mark the fold with chalk. Refold, so the excess folded fabric is on the inside and re-pin.
ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(133); });
Sew it up, and don’t forget to reinforce your stitches, so your new seam doesn’t break apart.
Remove the pins, and cut the excess fabric.
Tightening the waistband using darts starts with folding your jeans in the back in two spots right above the back pockets. Fold them in a little to form inverted triangles and pin them.
Pro tip: Do your alteration pinning while you have the jeans on to ensure the perfect fit.
ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(134); });
Turn them inside out and mark with chalk.
Remove the pins and re-pin on the inside, creating the same dart.
Sew along your chalk marks. Make sure to sew a few times for strength.
The legs — they’re not right
Perhaps you also want to alter the fit of the legs. You can make your jeans skinnier by taking in the seam of the inside legs.
ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(135); });
A Word of Advice: Men be careful about making your jeans too skinny. Medical experts say too tight jeans can lead to bladder, testicle, and urinary tract issues. Scary!
You will open the inner leg seam and fold it as needed to get the fit you want. Resew the seam closed.
If you want to make the leg fit bigger, you will have to add in fabric. This is best done along the outside hem.
ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(136); });
Here’s what to do:
Remove the seam stitches up to the point where you want the jeans to become looser.
Add in fabric between the seams to get the desired fit.
This is where you can get creative and give your jeans a new look. You can add contrasting fabric or even lace. Get into a designer mindset and create a look.
ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(137); });
You want to first remove the back belt loop by undoing the stitching at the top. Leave the bottom stitched. Cut down the back seam to where the belt loop is still secured.
Add in a piece of fabric to create the inverted triangle. Finish by sewing the belt loop back in place.
Now, this may not show as much, but it also won’t give you a lot of extra room in the waist, so keep that in mind.
ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(138); });
Honey, I’ve shrunk
Jeans that are too long were actually quite fashionable in the 1990s. Everyone had frayed hems that were mud-stained, and we all thought we were cool. Today, the look isn’t quite so coveted. People these days like their jean hems without the mud stains, please.
If your jeans drag the ground, you have a couple of options.
First, you can hem them up by cutting off the excess length, turning the raw edge under and sewing a hem.
ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(139); });
Or…
You can add a stylish cuff. Come on. Everyone is doing cuffed jeans. They look so cute. Or cool in that James Dean, 1950s way, depending on how you cuff them.
You just fold them up however you want. You can leave the hem up or roll the jeans a couple of times to hide it.
Then just tack the hem in place with a few stitches at each side seam.
ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(140); });
Not into the cropped look?
Are your jeans too short, and it’s driving you crazy because you hate cold ankles?
Well, have I got a solution for you.
Just add some extra fabric to the bottom of your jeans. For a smooth look, remove the hem first and sew on the new fabric.
Experiment with different fabrics.
Find your new jeans look. And keep those ankles covered! You might even start a trend.
ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(141); });
Cut ’em off
Maybe you can’t alter your jeans, or the problems are a little too complex for your limited skills.
Don’t worry. You can still wear your jeans, it will just take some scissor handiwork.
Who wears short shorts?
If you are battling excessive holes in the legs or jeans that are just too short to work, then consider cutting them off into shorts.
ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(142); });
You can cut the legs off at whatever length works for you.
Hem the edges or leave them raw.
Just make sure to cut the legs even, or you will end up in that battle where you cut one shorter and then go too short, so you have to cut the other until you have cut too much off.
Then you’ll end up with some Daisy Dukes.
Flirty in a skirt
If fit is the issue and your jeans are too small or big, a better option for you may be turning them into a skirt.
ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(143); });
The great part is:
It lets you adjust sizing a bit.
Start by removing the seams along the inner legs and up to the bottom of the zipper in the front and the bottom of the pockets in the back.
Now cut it off to the desired length. You can also leave it as is for a longer skirt.
Fold the front and back areas, so they lay flat. You want to sew these sections.
ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(144); });
If you have a gap left between the old legs, you can add in fabric or denim to complete the skirt bottom.
Finish with hemming, or you can leave the bottom raw for a frayed look.
Make them pretty again
Are stains your issue? Have your jeans seen better days and faded into a nasty look? If these are your issues, then let’s talk about making them look amazing again.
ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(145); });
You can change the whole overall color using a dye. Or try tye dying with either dye or diluted bleach for a retro look.
Another option is to update your jeans with a pattern or other design using bleach or permanent markers.
You will do both the same way. Make sure as you work, you put a piece of aluminum foil underneath the area you are working on to prevent bleed through. Use a bleach pen or permanent marker to draw whatever you want.
ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(146); });
The only limit is your imagination.
You can also embellish them by using jewels, beads, lace, or sequins. Tack some embellishments along the side seams and pockets.
Add pom poms or lace to create a whole new look.
Or paint your jeans with fabric paint to design your own masterpiece.
ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(147); });
The options are endless.
Just get creative.
Become a jean designing machine.
Make something old into something new
Remember before when we said don’t throw your old jeans out no matter what?
Sometimes, you have to accept that your jeans are not wearable anymore. If you have a huge rip in the crotch or rear, patching or paint probably won’t fix your problem.
This is a good time to consider repurposing them into a whole new item.
ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(148); });
Your jeans get a second life, and you don’t contribute to the growing landfills. It’s a win-win.
Use them to carry things
Keep weaving until it is as big as you want the bottom of your basket.
Using a bucket or basket as a guide, place your weaved portion on the bucket or basket bottom, so the loose strips hang down the sides.
ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(149); });
Resume weaving until your new basket is at the right height. The guide will ensure it gets the basket look.
Cut or tuck in any loose ends, and you have a cut new basket.
Lay eight strips down meeting in the middle (like an asterisk), and tie them together at the middle point. This is your base.
ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(150); });
Tie the other strips together end to end to create one long strip. Using your other strips, begin to weave — taking the fabric over and under the strips in the base.
Old jeans make great baskets.
To make a basket, cut your jeans into strips around one inch wide. You will need about 20 strips.
Need a visual? Check this out:
Cover the ground
Denim is a rugged material. When reusing it, it is ideal for rugs that will last almost forever.
ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(151); });
If you are using your jeans for different projects, you will probably have all the waistbands and seams left over.
Stitch them together into a rectangle. Trim the sides. Add a border using more waistbands or side seams.
Pretty simple.
Or you could make a braided rug:
Just remember to remove the buttons, snaps, and other metal. Nobody wants to step on those. That would probably be worse than stepping on a Lego, and we all know the horror of that.
ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(152); });
Decorate your home
Use the remaining jean material to create the main part of the placemat. Avoid using the seams since they will cause the placemat to be uneven.
You may have to sew two or more piece together to get the right size. Just press the seams with an iron so they lay flat.
Hem the edges so they are smooth and neat. Attach the pocket. And you’re done!
ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(153); });
And you can also create simple pillows.
You just need to cut out two pieces of denim that are the same size and shape. You can also piece together smaller fabric pieces for a patchwork look.
Jean is a classic fabric. Why not use old jeans to make home décor?
Wait. What?
Right? I know! That is a crazy idea. But it really does result in some beautiful creations.
ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(154); });
Try making placemats. The back pocket becomes a holder for the napkin and silverware.
It’s downright adorable.
Please add a picture of placemats made from jeans, if possible.
Start by removing the pockets from your jeans.
Here’s the deal:
You can really do whatever size, shape, or design you want.
ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(155); });
Sew the piece together with the right sides (that is the side you want to be the outside of the pillow) together. Sew almost completely around the pieces, leaving just a small unsewn area.
Pull the fabric through that small opening to turn the fabric right side out.
Add in stuffing.
Sew up the hole.
Voila!
You have a chic pillow to add a touch of jean style to your home.
ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(156); });
For the uncrafty people
Let’s face it. Not all of us are the crafty type.
If you fall into this category, then you know it’s probably best that you don’t try repairing, repurposing, or redesigning your old jeans.
You’ve tried and tried, but it’s just not happening.
We still don’t want you to toss your jeans. There’s still hope.
ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(157); });
One option is to look for a jean recycling program. Blue Jeans Go Green program is a good one. This program turns old jeans into insulation.
Yes! Insulation, like for buildings.
How neat is that?
You give them your old jeans, and they create a very useful product.
You can also recycle your jeans at some stores and get a coupon to save money on your next shopping trip. Some stores that offer this option include:
ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(158); });
- H&M
- Levi’s
- Crew
What a way to make some extra cash and make good use of old jeans!
- Plato’s Closet
- ThreadUP
- Poshmark
That’s a great deal!
You can also resell your jeans if they are in pretty good shape. Resell options include:
Of course, if you just want to help those who are less fortunate, consider donating your old jeans to places such as:
ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(159); });
- Goodwill
- Salvation Army
- American Red Cross
See! Everyone has better options than a trash can.
Give Your Jeans a New Life
Talking about all the amazing things you can do with your old jeans has actually been fun. There are so many options and projects.
You really should never just toss jeans into the garbage.
The material is strong and reusable in various ways.
So, go green! Find a way to give your old jeans a new life. Your jeans are waiting.
ezstandalone.cmd.push(function () { ezstandalone.showAds(160); });
What are you going to do with your old jeans? Tell us all about it in the comments!
DENIM and PATCHES sourced this post originally published on this site
CAT S/S 2026 Includes Lots Of Cool Denim
CAT apparel recently launched a new, lifestyle-leaning collection called CAT WWR (for workwear redefined).
We love that this time they have included a lot of super cool denim pieces in their collection.
Coming on the heels of the successful CAT WWR Designed by Avery Ranch Collection, this Spring/Summer line similarly fuses everyday wear with the brand’s workwear history.
For example, the collection uses durable materials (like canvas and denim), unique hardware, and several of the brand’s signature sayings across button-downs, t-shirts, outerwear, shorts, jeans, and hats.
For this particular collection, you’ll also notice white, cream and black colorways throughout, as well as fun pops of color including bright blue and green.
You can shop for this collection here.
The post CAT S/S 2026 Includes Lots Of Cool Denim first appeared on Denimology.
DENIM and PATCHES sourced this post originally published on this site
LOEWE – Fall/Winter 2026 Ad Campaign
LOEWE’s Fall/Winter 2026 campaign marked the continued evolution of the house under creative directors Jack McCollough and Lazaro Hernandez.
Rather than a traditional studio campaign, the imagery was photographed by Talia Chetrit on the volcanic island of Tenerife, creating a dramatic contrast between raw landscapes and LOEWE’s highly crafted luxury pieces.
The imagery highlights the visual contrast between the island’s jagged lava rock formations and the collection’s fluid, sculptural craftsmanship. The campaign features a mix of fresh and familiar faces, including ambassadors and actors like Isla Johnston, Levon Hawke, Seydou Sarr, and Eva Victor.
The visual language shifted away from the highly conceptual surrealism associated with LOEWE’s previous era and toward something more tactile and sensual.
You can shop for the current Spring/Summer 2026 LOEWE collection at NET-A-PORTER, Harrods, and at Saks Fifth Avenue.
The post LOEWE – Fall/Winter 2026 Ad Campaign first appeared on Denimology.
DENIM and PATCHES sourced this post originally published on this site
These Sneakers Make More Sense Than You Might Think
This is a sponsored blog post, one of our paid services. We maintain full editorial independence. Read more here.
Italian-Made Sneakers for (and with) Raw Denim
I’ve owned plenty of boots over the years, and I still appreciate a good pair. But it’s sneakers I wear most. And that used to feel like a guilty pleasure.
Back in the days when I was launching this site and still figuring out my take on denim style, I had this idea that proper denimheads had to wear boots. So I did too. These days, sneakers are my go-to choice of footwear, pretty much year-round.
It’s not a statement about style, or a reaction to anything. It’s just everyday life. I work from home, I have kids, and I’m in and out the door constantly. More often than not, slipping into a pair of Vans or New Balances is just so much easier than lacing up my Red Wings or Wescos.
The tricky part is finding sneakers that pair naturally with raw denim and the kind of clothing we wear around it. Plenty of sneakers work with jeans. Fewer feel right with heavier denim, work shirts and the rest of a wardrobe that tends to be a little more substantial.
These sneakers do it all.
You Have to Look Twice for the Denim
The Tellason x Valsport sneaker is a low-profile, old-school European sports shoe, closer in spirit to a classic tennis trainer than a rugged attempt at turning boots into sneakers.
And importantly, it does not immediately announce itself as a raw denim collaboration. The denim details are there, but they are kept to the stripe, the heel tab and the tongue lining.
From a distance, you are looking at a simple, easy-to-wear sneaker with a warm-toned sole and a shape that will sit easily under a pair of jeans. Look closer and the Tellason connection becomes clearer.
That was very much intentional. When I asked the guys at Tellason whether the subtle denim use was there from the beginning, Tony Patella’s answer was simple:
“100%. A lot of consideration went into how we could make the shoe as ‘Tellason’ as possible. Subtlety versus screaming has always been our style.”
That is probably the smartest decision in this collaboration. A full denim sneaker could easily become the sort of thing you like as an idea more than you actually wear. This one still feels like a sneaker first. The denim is a detail, not the whole reason for the shoe to exist.
Tellason and Sneakers Go Back a Long Way
At first glance, a sneaker collaboration might seem like a slight departure for a brand best known for jeans, chore coats and work shirts. But for Pete and Tony, sneakers are hardly a new interest.
Pete’s first memorable pair arrived in 1974, when his father bought him a pair of Nike Wimbledons. A navy Cortez followed, then Vans in 1975.
At the local Vans shop, he would choose the colour of each canvas panel on a paper outline of the shoe, then get a phone call two weeks later when the finished pair was ready to collect.
Tony grew up in a sporting goods store. When he was 12, his father bought the local shop in his hometown, becoming Nike’s 83rd account in the world.
That gave him access to the Waffle Trainer, Cortez, Bruin and the other models that would later become classics. His first job after college was as a sales representative for Converse.
That background matters. Tellason making a sneaker is not a denim brand wandering into a category because it seems commercially convenient. It’s a product category that Tony and Pete have lived with since they were kids in California.
Made in Italy by Valsport
The connection with Valsport happened through Uwe from Amtraq, Tellason’s European distributor. Tony kept seeing Uwe wearing Valsports and eventually asked for an introduction.
There’s an Italian connection on Tony’s side too. His Italian roots are clearly something he is proud of; every now and then, he’ll reply to an email with a one-sentence phrase in Italian.
Valsport is based in the Veneto region of Italy, close to the companies that already make some of Tellason’s products. For Tony, the appeal was the people, the history, and the fact that Valsport have been making sneakers in Italy since 1920.
The aesthetic fit too. Tony describes Valsport’s shoes as “old school” and “analogue”: classic tennis and running-inspired designs, without the technical appearance of modern performance trainers. They are designed for everyday wear, which is really the point here.
The Tellason x Valsport collab works because it does not try too hard to prove its denim credentials. It’s understated, wearable, made in Italy, and the Tellason details reveal themselves quietly. Which feels very Tellason indeed.
Want to Know More About Tellason:
- The Story of Tellason – The story behind the brand, their jeans, and their approach to well-made everyday clothing.
- Five Iconic Tellason Pieces – Standout garments from the brand, including jeans, shirts and outerwear.
- Tellason’s New Fredy Fit – My review of the brand’s wider-leg jean and why the fit works.
Keep Track of What I’m Working On
Hi, I’m Thomas, founder of Denimhunters. If you liked this article, you should check out the DH Weekly. It’s my weekly column and newsletter that I publish every Friday, with new guides, deals, and things worth paying attention to.
The post These Sneakers Make More Sense Than You Might Think appeared first on Denimhunters.
DENIM and PATCHES sourced this post originally published on this site
Top Trend Summer 2026 – Wide-Leg Jeans
Wide-leg jeans remain one of the strongest denim categories for Summer 2026, but the trend has evolved.
The extremely oversized “puddle jeans” of a few years ago are giving way to more refined, wearable wide-leg shapes with cleaner proportions and better tailoring.
The most trending styles of wide-leg jeans this seasons are:
Wide-leg carpenter jeans – workwear continues to influence fashion denim. And tailored wide-legs. One of the newest developments is denim that looks almost like trousers.
Below you can find our six favorite picks for this season, available to purchase right now.
We The Free Kellee Palazzo Jeans ($69.95)
rag & bone Andi Ankle Wide-Leg Jeans ($288)
EDIKTED Ayla Low Rise Wide Leg Carpenter Jeans ($87.40)
Frame Modern Pocket Wide-Leg Jeans ($288)
AGOLDE Laria Mid-Rise Wide-Leg Jeans ($270)
R13 Wide-Leg Damon Jeans ($512)
The post Top Trend Summer 2026 – Wide-Leg Jeans first appeared on Denimology.
DENIM and PATCHES sourced this post originally published on this site
These $99 Selvedge Jeans Are Way Better Than Expected
This is a sponsored blog post, one of our paid services. We maintain full editorial independence. Read more here.
Review: Why Gustin Is Probably the Best-Value Option for American-Made Selvedge Jeans
Most denim brands work the same way: produce the jeans first, stock them, then sell them. Gustin does the opposite.
Instead of building inventory upfront, the brand launches products as crowdfunding campaigns. Customers buy the jeans, then production starts, and delivery usually takes a few months.
That waiting period is the trade-off. But it’s also the reason Gustin can sell American-made selvedge jeans at prices that might look too good to be true.
But after reviewing two of the brand’s longest-running selvedge offerings—the Okayama Standard and the 1968 Cone Mills—my clear takeaway is this:
These jeans are better than I expected, and great value for money.
TL;DR – Strong Value If You’re Willing to Wait
Gustin’s crowdfunding model keeps prices exceptionally low for American-made selvedge, and the jeans themselves feel considerably more convincing than the pricing suggests. But to get the best price, you have to wait 10 to 14 weeks.
The Business Model: A Question of Price vs. Time
Gustin’s business revolves around crowdfunding. The brand launches jeans as limited campaigns. Customers place orders before production begins, and once enough pairs are sold, manufacturing starts.
In practice, the process usually looks something like this:
- Campaign runs for roughly 2 weeks
- Production takes around 8 to 12 weeks
- Delivery lands roughly 10 to 14 weeks after ordering
That sounds long because, by modern retail standards, it is.
The upside is that Gustin avoids carrying large amounts of inventory, which helps keep prices considerably lower than any comparable jeans: American-made selvedge jeans like these easily cost twice as much in conventional retail.
The catch? To get the best value, you have to be patient.
First Impressions: Better Than the Price Suggests
Before handling these jeans in person, I expected compromises—and I expected them to be obvious.
That’s usually what happens when pricing in raw denim starts looking unusually aggressive. But that wasn’t my reaction here.
The fabrics feel good. The construction feels solid. The finishing is excellent. The hardware doesn’t feel cheap. And visually, both pairs look much more substantial than the pricing would initially lead you to expect.
The interesting part is where Gustin seems to prioritise spending, those areas buyers immediately notice and pay close attention to:
- the denim itself
- overall construction
- hardware
- American manufacturing
The simplifications show up more in secondary materials and finer finishing details. And honestly, that allocation makes sense for this kind of product.
Gustin’s Two Core Selvedge Denims
I could’ve chosen more experimental fabrics for this review, but that wouldn’t have been representative of the brand.
The Okayama Standard and the 1968 Cone Mills have both been part of the brand’s line-up for years. They appear consistently through campaigns and Featured Stock, and they’ve effectively become the brand’s core fabrics.
That makes them a much better way to evaluate Gustin as a whole. One leans slightly more modern and textured, the other leans more classic and heritage-oriented.
The Okayama Standard
Of the two denims, this is probably the pair I’d recommend most people start with.
It’s a 14.5 oz. Japanese selvedge with slightly more surface texture and a darker, greener tone. Compared to the 1968 Cone Mills fabric, it feels a little more substantial overall without becoming heavy or difficult.
Importantly, it still feels very approachable. This isn’t an extreme heavyweight or aggressively textured denim. It sits in a comfortable middle ground where it feels substantial enough to justify the price while still being easy to wear casually.
The 1968 Cone Mills
The 1968 leans more classic and straightforward. At 13.5 oz., it’s slightly lighter, and the fabric surface feels cleaner and flatter overall.
This is also the pair where the crowdfunding model really clicks into place.
At $99 during campaigns, the proposition becomes unusually easy to understand: solid American-made selvedge jeans in a classic fabric at a price that still feels unusually competitive.
Still, if I were choosing between the two, I’d probably go with the Okayama Standard because it feels a little more distinctive overall. That said, the 1968 Cone Mills pair probably delivers the stronger value story at crowdfunding pricing.
Okayama Standard vs. 1968 Cone Mills
Before getting into the individual impressions, here’s a quick side-by-side comparison of the two fabrics. Both sit close to the core of Gustin’s line-up, but they have slightly different personalities—and very different pricing stories.
| Okayama Standard | 1968 Cone Mills | |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 14.5 oz. | 13.5 oz. |
| Origin | Japan (Okayama Prefecture) | Cone Mills spec |
| Colour tone | Slightly greener cast | More classic red cast |
| Surface texture | More textured | Flatter and cleaner |
| Overall feel | Slightly more substantial | More casual and straightforward |
| Crowdfunding price | $139 | $99 |
| Featured Stock price | $199 | $149 |
Fit and Sizing: Read the Charts Carefully
This is probably the section of this review most buyers actually need to pay closest attention to.
Gustin uses measured sizing rather than vanity sizing, and that changes the experience considerably if you’re used to mainstream denim brands.
According to Gustin, many customers need to size up around two waist sizes from what they normally wear. Based on my experience, that advice should be taken seriously.
My brother-in-law, who modelled the jeans for this review, normally wears a 33 or 34 in most jeans. We ordered size 35, but a 36 probably would’ve worked better. The jeans still fit him, but it became very obvious that Gustin’s sizing shouldn’t be approached casually.
The Straight fit—the brand’s original cut—is also slimmer than the name initially suggests. It sits closer to a modern slim-straight fit with moderate room through the thigh and a relatively clean leg opening.
The Vintage Straight worked particularly well on my brother-in-law because of his build. He’s an ex-hockey goalie with fairly large thighs, and the extra room through the upper leg and rise created a noticeably more balanced silhouette overall.
The main takeaway here is simple: Read the measurements carefully. Especially if you normally wear stretch denim or have larger thighs.
Details Like Much More Expensive Jeans
Part of what makes Gustin’s pricing feel really surprising when you handle the jeans is they don’t feel stripped back in the places denim buyers tend to notice first.
Some examples of what you get:
- Selvedge ID on the fly—not something you expect to see on $99 jeans
- Visible selvedge detail on the belt loop beside the patch
- Western-style veg-tanned leather patch
- Tucked belt loops
- Double-felled inseam construction
- Reinforcement lining at the bottom of the back pockets
- Solid hardware and clean overall construction
That doesn’t mean every detail is equally premium.
The pocket bags, for instance, are lighter and slightly see-through when new, and some finishing choices come down more to preference. Personally, I’d prefer blind bartacks on the back pockets rather than exposed bartacks, and I’d also prefer a flatter lock stitch at the pocket opening instead of chain stitching there.
But that balance is also what makes Gustin interesting. The brand appears to focus spending on enthusiast-facing details while simplifying some of the finer points around refinement and secondary materials.
Easy to Wear, Easy to Understand
One thing both pairs do well is avoid feeling overly precious or reproduction-focused. Some raw denim feels like a long-term project the second you put it on. These don’t.
The Okayama Standard especially strikes a nice balance between structure and everyday wearability. It feels substantial enough to satisfy someone looking for proper selvedge denim, but not so heavy or aggressive that it becomes inconvenient. The 1968 Cone pair feels slightly more straightforward and casual overall.
Both pairs work naturally with fairly standard casual wardrobes—boots, sneakers, sweatshirts, flannels, workwear staples—and neither pair feels especially intimidating if you’re newer to raw denim.
And honestly, I think that’s part of Gustin’s appeal. These are enthusiast jeans, but they don’t require enthusiast-level commitment to wear.
Who Should Buy Gustin … and Who Shouldn’t
Gustin makes the most sense for buyers who:
- are comfortable waiting a few months
- care more about fabric and overall build than extreme refinement
- are willing to pay close attention to measurements before ordering
The model is especially compelling at crowdfunding pricing, where the trade-offs feel easiest to justify and the pricing advantage is most obvious.
Gustin also makes a strong case for buyers who want American-made selvedge without immediately moving into much higher price territory.
On the other hand, if you want immediate delivery, extremely refined finishing throughout, or a forgiving, mainstream sizing experience, Gustin’s approach may simply not fit how you prefer to buy clothes.
Final Verdict: Great Value and Sensible Trade-Offs
I think Gustin’s biggest challenge is that the pricing almost makes the brand seem less credible than it actually is.
When people see American-made selvedge jeans selling for $99, the natural assumption is that something must be wrong. But after seeing these jeans in person, I can tell that’s not the case.
These are solid jeans, made from nice denims with solid construction. And the fits make sense once you understand the sizing. And while Gustin clearly simplifies some secondary materials and finishing details, the overall package feels far more legitimate than the pricing suggests.
At crowdfunding pricing, especially, it becomes easy to understand why the brand has built such a loyal following over the years.
Keep Track of What I’m Working On
Hi, I’m Thomas, founder of Denimhunters. If you liked this article, you should check out the DH Weekly. It’s my weekly column and newsletter that I publish every Friday, with new guides, deals, and things worth paying attention to.
The post These $99 Selvedge Jeans Are Way Better Than Expected appeared first on Denimhunters.
DENIM and PATCHES sourced this post originally published on this site
Is Google’s New Search My Biggest Challenge in 15 Years?
Also: KATO’s Comfortable Selvedge, New Releases, and My Updated Selvedge Denim Guide
Earlier this week, Google announced what it calls the biggest update to search in more than 25 years.
This could fundamentally change how people find information online, including how they discover independent sites like Denimhunters, and whether they visit them at all. But before I put on my tinfoil hat, there are more enjoyable things to get into as well.
I’ve published a brand profile of KATO, the Japanese-American label that has done more than most to make stretch selvedge feel like a serious option for denim enthusiasts. I’ve also collected a few other things I think are worth your attention this week. And I’ve updated one of the cornerstone articles from the Denimhunters archive.
In This Issue of the DH Weekly
- KATO – Comfortable selvedge without the painful break-in
- New Releases – Wesco, Samurai, Fullcount, and the Indigo Invitational
- Google Search – Why its AI shift worries me
- Selvedge Denim – My newly expanded guide
Get the DH Weekly in Your Inbox
Google may be changing how readers find sites like Denimhunters, which makes it even more important that I can reach you directly.
The DH Weekly goes out every Friday with new stories, product picks, industry observations, and denim history. Sign up below to get it in your inbox.
KATO Makes the Case for Comfortable Selvedge
As denim enthusiasts, we tend to accept discomfort as part of the deal. If you want raw denim with texture, fades, and character, the break-in might be a little painful. KATO has spent the past decade questioning that assumption.
The brand is best known for its 4-WAY STRETCH SELVEDGE™, which adds flexibility in both directions while still aiming to preserve the weight, texture, and fading potential that make raw denim interesting in the first place.
For anyone new to raw denim—or simply used to jeans with stretch—that makes selvedge considerably easier to get into. But KATO is also interesting for experienced denimheads: not because it replaces traditional rigid denim, but because it challenges, and might change, your assumptions of stretch denim.
In the new profile, I look at KATO’s approach to comfort, its heavyweight Mammoth stretch selvedge, and the 17 oz. all-cotton Monster Slub that shows the brand is about more than stretch.
Things Worth Your Attention This Week
I’m not actively shopping for engineer boots, although a pair of Mister Lous is what I’d get. I certainly don’t need more jeans, but a good collaboration is always tempting. And I would absolutely melt in a 15.7 oz. T-shirt. None of that makes this week’s releases any less interesting.
Wesco x Brooklyn Clothing Anniversary Mister Lou Boots
Brooklyn Clothing Co. is celebrating its 37th anniversary with three exclusive Wesco Mister Lou Engineer Boots, made in custom-ordered Horween Chromexcel leathers: Timber, Havana, and Calvados.
The Mister Lou is Wesco’s slightly sleeker take on the classic engineer boot, with a reduced shaft, almond-shaped toe, brass hardware, natural leather midsoles, and resoleable stitchdown construction. Combined with Chromexcel, these should develop plenty of tonal variation and character as they’re worn.
The collection launches today (Friday, 29 May at 10AM MST), and the boots retail at CA$1,195 / US$895.
Wait a minute. Did you say 37 years?! But that means the store was opened in … you got it, the 1980s (same decade I was born)!
Brooklyn Clothing Co. has been one of Canada’s best destinations for denim, boots, and heritage menswear for decades, literally. I’ve written a shop guide about Brooklyn that you can read here.
Samurai Restock at Redcast Heritage
Everyone’s favourite Spanish denim destination has received a sizeable restock from Samurai, including several of the brand’s core jeans in the more wearable 15 oz. range.
That is still substantial denim, of course, but a little easier to live with than some of Samurai’s heavier fabrics as temperatures start climbing.
And in case that sounds too sensible for summer, they have also restocked Samurai’s 15.7 oz. T-shirts, available in four colours.
I’m not sure anyone needs a tee that weighs nearly as much as a pair of jeans, but I also know that will not stop some of you 😂
Fullcount x Blue in Green Summer Collection
New York’s Blue in Green has released a very good-looking exclusive collection with Fullcount, built around four easy summer outfits.
The centrepiece is the 0107 BiG Special wide straight jeans, available either in a rinsed or a beautifully washed version. There’s also a matching Type II denim jacket in the same two washes, also made in an exclusive fit.
But my favourites might be the military-inspired M43 jacket and field trousers, available in washed indigo and black herringbone. Both already have that softly worn-in look that works especially well with this kind of military clothing.
Three Months Left of the Indigo Invitational
We are now nine months into Year 5 of the Indigo Invitational. Inconveniently, this is also the time of year when putting away your jeans and reaching for a pair of shorts starts to feel very appealing.
If you’re still in the running, this is not the time to stop. We’re getting into the home stretch, and summer months can make a real difference to your fades.
So keep going, even when shorts are calling. And remember to submit your monthly update.
Why the New Google Is a Problem for DH
I’ve been working on this site for more than 15 years. There have been ups and downs, but it’s still here—and doing better than ever.
It started as a hobby project, and for the first decade, that is largely how I treated it. I made my living from other work, which meant I did not financially depend on Denimhunters. But the site has grown steadily over the past couple of years, and if that growth continues, it could provide my full-time income by the end of this year.
Earlier this week, Google announced a major change to its core product that made headlines around the world. I knew it was coming, and I’ve been preparing for it. But now it’s real. So why do I care?
Will Google Cut Off Sites Like Mine?
In a nutshell, Google wants to answer your questions directly. Instead of sending you to a site that explains how to wash raw denim, compares jeans brands, or helps you find the right pair, it will give you the answer inside Google search.
And I understand why that is useful. I use Google myself, and I’ve enjoyed the AI-generated answers when I just need something quickly. The problem, and where it gets unfair, is that those answers have to come from somewhere.
When I explained this to my wife, her immediate reaction was: “Can they really do that?! Can they take the information from your site, show it on Google, and not send people to you?”
Yes. They can. And they will.
That is concerning for a site like Denimhunters because my business depends on people actually visiting. You read an article, click through to a brand or a retailer, maybe buy something through one of those links, or simply contribute to the traffic that supports advertising on the site.
Why Your Visits Matter More Than Ever
Traffic to Denimhunters is in a good place. Here are some key numbers:
- From 2024 to 2025, total traffic grew by 18% total.
- Historically, more than 80% of traffic has come from search, predominantly Google. This month, that number is down to around 76%.
- Direct traffic has grown from around 13% historically to almost 22% this month.
That is actually really encouraging. Traffic is growing, and more of you are coming directly to the site, opening my emails, and returning to read what is new. And as Google becomes less reliable as a way for independent sites to reach readers, that direct connection becomes increasingly important.
So I’m not saying Denimhunters is about to disappear. It isn’t! But the foundation underneath independent websites is changing just as the site is reaching a point where it might finally make me a full-time income.
So, yes, the alarming framing of this week’s DH Weekly was maybe a tiny bit clickbait. But I wanted you to read this, because the concern behind it is very real.
How You Can Help
Whether you found Denimhunters through Google, came directly to the site, or read this in your inbox: thank you! It genuinely means a lot.
If you want to help even more, keep coming back. Make sure you’re subscribed to the DH Weekly, and share Denimhunters with someone you think might enjoy it.
And if you are already planning to buy something I’ve written about, consider going through one of the links in any of the articles before you do. You pay the same price, and I receive a small commission that helps keep Denimhunters going.
From the Archive: My Guide to Selvedge Denim
One of the most-read articles over the years has been my guide to selvedge denim. I updated it last spring as part of a broader effort to prepare for the arrival of AI search.
With Google’s latest announcement, that work has suddenly become more urgent. So I’ve gone back to the guide once again and turned it into a much fuller article.
If you’re new to raw denim, it’s a good place to start. It explains what selvedge actually is, why that little line inside the cuff matters, how selvedge differs from raw denim, and whether it really makes a better pair of jeans.
And if you already know the basics, there’s a lot more in there now: more detail on how denim is made, what selvedge can—and cannot—tell you about quality, and what I’ve learned from more than 15 years of writing about denim and almost two decades of selling raw denim jeans in retail.
Google may still use some of that information to answer questions without sending readers through. But making the one of the most popular articles on Denimhunters more useful and more grounded in real experience is the best response I have.
The post Is Google’s New Search My Biggest Challenge in 15 Years? appeared first on Denimhunters.
DENIM and PATCHES sourced this post originally published on this site