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The Best Satin Pants For Men For Every Occasion

February 1, 2026 by DENIMandPATCHES

The Best Satin Pants for Men for Every Occasion

Finding the right pair of satin pants can be difficult.

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A simple google search might leave you short of answers, and merely going to the mall can be a waste of time if you don’t know where to start.

Luckily, this post will be your guide to owning that perfect pair of satin pants that you’re looking for. No matter if you want satin fabric for your gym shorts or dress pants, we’ve got you covered. We have found the most stylish stain pants for men around and compiled a list solely to help you on your search.

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But first, let’s go through a little history of satin fabric.

COMPARISON TABLE

PRODUCT IMAGE RATING PRICE
[amazon link=”B073X5SDKV” title=”Champion Life Men’s Satin Pants” /]

[amazon fields=”B073X5SDKV” value=”thumb” ]

[amazon fields=”B073X5SDKV” value=”button” ]

Satin PantsCHAMPION champion satin pants
ASOS DESIGN Slim Jeans In White ASOS
Heart & Dagger Tuxedo Skinny Suit Pants In Satin Heart & Dagger tuxedo skinny suit pants in satin

THE HISTORY OF SATIN

Satin

China seems to have been on the cutting–edge of most inventions throughout history.

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Gun–powder, fireworks, silk: China did it all.

And of course, China was also the place of origin of the form of weaving known as satin. That’s right, satin is merely a form a weaving and not a material like silk or cotton.

Although China protected the secret behind the satin weave for a long time, it eventually spread across the entire globe. By the 12th century, Italy was producing its own satin, which was available throughout Europe by the 14th century.

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Satin was traditionally made using silk, and some people still claim that silk is the only way to go. But using silk was costly back in the day and made satin only available for the wealthy. Nowadays, nylon and polyester are used to make the satin weave.

You can also use cotton to do the same weave as well, but this will result in a different fabric known as sateen.

And although satin was originally used for upholstery and women’s lining for clothing, it soon took on a fashion trend of its own.

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Huge stars started wearing satin in movies and as fashion statements, and the trend seems to be alive and well. Even men like John Travolta and certain rock backs took it on. Groups like The Glitter Band took it to a whole new level, in fact.

And now that you know a little history behind the fashion trend of satin, here’s how we chose the best satin pants for men.

AFFORDABLE AND TRENDY

When looking for the choices for this list, we looked at two main components: how much they cost and how stylish they were.

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Because when making any fashion choice, these two things need to be balanced and your decision needs to be planned according to your needs and budget.

Although there are other options out there, the items listed below will provide you with a great look for as cheap of a price as possible – because not everyone can afford Gucci satin pants. Well, at least, I know I can’t (even though they would look great).

So, for those of us with smaller wallet–sizes to work with, here are some great options.

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[amazon link=”B073X5SDKV” title=”FOR THE GYM AND LOUNGING AROUND, CHAMPION IS THE WAY TO GO” /]

[amazon box=”B073X5SDKV” /]

So, I’m pretty big on wearing comfy clothing around the house.

And Champion men’s satin pants provide that for me. Regular sweat pants are comfy, too, but I’m probably not alone when I say that sometimes a want a little something more to make me feel better about just lounging around.

Of course, some people are big on going to the gym, as well. If you want something with a little more style to wear while working out, these might just be what you’re looking for.

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For those of you interested in a pair, here are some of the features Champion offers:

  • Lightweight to provide ultimate comfort and not as hot in the summer
  • Mesh lining on the inside
  • Zippers on the bottom for open flaps that allow a breeze to come through
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  • Elastic waistband for a fit that feels snug but comfortable
  • Satin weave is made with polyester

These are, however, on the pricier side for a low-end budget option at $65.00, but they are well worth it. Champion has been a leader in comfy athletic clothing for some time now, and they know what they’re doing.

ANOTHER MORE COLORFUL OPTION FROM CHAMPION

ANOTHER MORE COLORFUL OPTION FROM CHAMPION

But Champion also offers a cheaper and more colorful style of satin pants.

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It’s available online at Nordstrom, you can check it out here!

And they’re available below $$, which will give you a little more savings than the pair above. They are blue, though, so this pair is definitely for people who feel comfortable rocking a more vibrant pair of comfortable satin pants

Check out some other features:

  • Elastic drawstring waistband for maximum comfort
  • Side pockets and one back pocket for storage
  • Mesh lining for comfortability and 100% polyester
  • Machine washable and tumble dry
  • Athletic style and fits true to size

Champion has just what you need for your lounging and athletic clothing, especially if you want a nice satin pair. They have traditional styles and more vibrant styles, so no matter what your fashion taste is, they will have it.

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FOR DRESS PANTS, GO TO ASOS

ASOS

Not only are they one of the few places to offer satin dress pants, ASOS also provides a pair that isn’t going to hurt your wallet.

At under $ for a classic black pair, it’s hard not to choose them.

Although not entirely satin – the back being satin, the front black velvet – you’ll have enough of it that you won’t even notice. And plus, the black velvet compliments it pretty nicely.

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Here’s some more features:

  • Zip fly and a button fastening, like all good dress pants should have
  • Hook and bar closure
  • Tapered leg
  • Velvet front and a satin back

It isn’t surprising that ASOS would be a good place to find satin pants. They advertise themselves as providing everyone with the fashion that they want to be who they are. ASOS is also a proud partner with GLAAD, an LGBTQ activist organization, so if you want your fashion choice to follow with your beliefs, consider shopping at ASOS.

A NON-BLACK VERSION

non black version

ASOS, like Champion, offers an option that is a little more untraditional…

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Like a white pair of satin dress pants.

Check them out here – but notice right away that they are more expensive than the black pair above, and you’ll have to drop about $$.

But they do look good. Here are some other features:

  • They stretch for maximum comfort and provides for a snug fit
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  • Zip fly with button fastening like the pair above
  • Side and back pockets
  • A very stylish skinny fit
  • Hook and bar closure
  • An exclusive look only to ASOS

ASOS clearly cares about its customers, and that’s why it’s hard to beat them when it comes to unique styles such as satin clothing.

For men out there who can’t seem to find the satin pants that they’re looking for, ASOS will most likely have you covered.

A BUYER’S GUIDE FOR SATIN PANTS

There are really only a couple things you need to consider when purchasing a pair of satin pants.

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These include:

  • Type of occasion: If you’re going to a nicer party, maybe a lounging pair of Champion satin pants aren’t the appropriate choice. Go with the option that fits your needs.
  • Your desired comfortability: This is crucial when buying satin pants. Satin is a fashion style that can cause many people to lose sight on comfort – which they might regret later on.

FINDING THE SATIN PANTS YOU NEED

So, although these are not the full range of options for satin pants, these options will definitely help you along the way.

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Satin pants are a very unique fashion – especially for men – and in order to find that perfect pair, some consideration needs to go into your choice so that you can make as informed of a decision as possible.

Start with these options and work your way around the market.

But since I’ve taken the time to look at the available options out there, these are by far the best.

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It isn’t as easy to find a nice pair of satin pants as you may think, especially for the affordability that many people need to make a buy.

Have fun searching for the right pair for you!

DENIM and PATCHES sourced this post originally published on this site

Filed Under: Blog

The Top Seven Best Athletic Fit Jeans

January 31, 2026 by DENIMandPATCHES

THE TOP 10 BEST ATHLETIC FIT JEANS

For some people, working out is more than part of just their regular routine. They want to not only be healthy, but also to maintain a certain, more muscular physique.Body builders and athletes all do this, and maybe you do too. Who doesn’t like a well-muscled body?But when it comes to jean shopping, things can get rather difficult.Maybe you absolutely loved a pair you saw on a mannequin while perusing stores at the mall, but when you tried them on found that the legs squeezed too tightly on your things or calves.Maybe the legs fit perfect, but there was a gap in the waist that even the perfect belt couldn’t make look right. Or perhaps you bought what you hoped was the perfect pair of jeans but found that they stretched out more and more each time you wore them – until they quickly became unwearable.  Don’t worry – we know the struggle is real.And we’re here to let you know that all is not lost. Some big name brands have recognized your jean fitting needs and have created a fit especially for you: the athletic fit.

COMPARISON TABLE

NAME

IMAGE

PRICE

BARBELL APPAREL

[amazon fields=”B01M2681OK” value=”thumb” ]

KEIRIN CUT JEANS

KEIRIN CUT JEANS

LEVI’S

[amazon fields=”B01N5FVM36″ value=”thumb” ]

GAP

[amazon fields=”B07GBJX8YF” value=”thumb” ]

BONOBOS

BONOBOS

LEE

[amazon fields=”B01DXPYIHO” value=”thumb” image_size=”large” /]

HOW WE CHOOSE OUR RATINGS

RATINGS

We’re dedicated to helping you in your search for the best pair of athletic jeans. When compiling this list, we took a look at brand ratings as well as customer comments on a variety of the jeans they sell.We also took into consideration that you might be looking to save a buck or two, so we made sure to find quality jeans for under $$$.What do we mean when we say quality?We mean durable, comfortable, and great looking athletic jeans that you will get the most for your money with.

TEN GREAT ATHLETIC FIT JEANS BY SIX QUALITY BRANDS

Whether you’re an athlete, bodybuilder, or just someone who possesses larger leg musculature, athletic jeans are the answer to your jean purchasing prayers.They are made to hug your waist and backend while still giving you plenty of leg room without being too tight. They have just enough stretch to conform to your figure comfortably, but won’t become baggy after just a few wears.And best of all, some big name brands you’ve heard your friends raving about carry them. Here are our top ten picks for best athletic fit jeans sorted by brand:

1. BARBELL APPAREL

[amazon box=”B01M2681OK” /]

Started by a group of athletes and friends as a Kickstarter campaign, Barbell has quickly become a beloved brand for athletic jeans! Customers give very high praise to Barbell’s jeans, rating them high in comfort, durability, and the brand’s overall customer service.What’s even more appealing about Barbell is that they cater to both men and women. All of their athletic fit jeans are $$$, so say goodbye to gender or size inequality in pricing.Need more than our word? See for yourself with their Straight Athletic Fit jeans. Their highest ranking jeans for men, these come in 8 different washes.Their special denim blend allows for full mobility and comfort regardless of what activity you’re doing while you wear them. Customers even felt that they could work out while wearing them without a problem.If you prefer a little more leg room, however, Barbell also carries these Relaxed Athletic Fit jeans. They come in 6 washes and have all of the same great qualities that customers love about their straight athletic fit counterparts.Yes, we remember that we mentioned Barbell selling athletic fit jeans for the ladies. Like the men’s selection, they have two styles: Slim Athletic Fit skinny jeans and Boot Cut, both available in multiple washes.If you love skinny jeans, but worry that you’ll have trouble finding a size you can comfortably get in and out of, give Barbell a chance.Customers reviewed their Slim Athletic Fit jeans as being form-fitting without the eternal struggle of finding creative ways to get them on and off without a fight.Providing quality athletic jeans to men and women alike as well as outstanding customer service and satisfaction puts Barbell at the top of our list with 5 out of 5 stars.

2. KEIRIN CUT JEANS

KEIRIN CUT JEANS

Another brand that started as a Kickstarter campaign by athletes for those with athletic builds, Keirin Cut does business in a very unique way – they tailor their jeans based on customer feedback and suggestion.Keirin Cut takes their customers’ surveys, reviews, and emails, then designs fabrics based on what customers want during a pre-order period.Customers can then order what style they want in their size. Keirin Cut will create the jeans and ship them out to the customer (for free within the United States). What’s even more impressive is that Keirin Cut responds to customer reviews and engages them when they make suggestions or express a concern over any aspect of their products, including complaints like pocket depth.Keirin Cut’s Carson Men’s Athletic Fit Jeans are their highest rated jeans currently available on their website. At $$$, these are praised as being both comfortable and durable by customers. They are relaxed fit and just stretchy enough to conform to your movements without constriction. They also offer plenty of lower leg room without sacrificing a great fit in the seat and thighs.For the ladies, might we suggest the Fiorenzuola Straight Leg Athletic Fit Jeans?As with the Carson Men’s Jeans, the Fiorenzuola Women’s Jeans fit snug or loosely in the appropriate places. They are rated as being the perfect fit!We grant Keirin Cut Jeans and their athletic fit jeans 4.5 out of 5 stars for quality products and their customer-centric way of doing business.

3. LEVI’S

[amazon box=”B01N5FVM36″ /]

A tried and true customer favorite, you can’t go wrong with a good pair of Levi’s jeans. Levi’s is available in many different brick and mortar stores as well as online.They’ve been around for a long time and customers love them. They offer a variety of jeans in a wide variety of colors and sizes, including Big and Tall.Prices are very reasonable, averaging between $$ and $$$. Despite having lower prices than our top two picks, we place them third on this list due to not carrying any athletic fit jeans for women.For your athletic fit needs, we recommend Levi’s 541 Athletic Fit Stretch Jeans. Available in 9 wash colors, they are a staple in any man’s closet. Customers love the fit and comfort these jeans grant them. They stretch to allow for full range of motion while maintaining enough cling so as not to be baggy. They sit at the waist and cost $$.With so many positive customer reviews and being such a long-standing beloved jean company, we give Levi’s and their 541 Athletic Fit Stretch Jeans 4 out of 5 stars.

4. GAP

[amazon box=”B07GBJX8YF” /]

Another highly recognized name in the clothing world, people swear by Gap jeans. They find them to be consistently reliable and affordable. You can shop in their physical stores or online depending on your clothes shopping preference. Customer loyalty is strong with these guys.The only downside to Gap? No athletic fit jeans for the ladies.Jeans in Athletic Fit with GapFlex are not only their highest rated athletic jeans, but they are also made with the environment in mind. Gap prides itself on saving tons of water and cutting the amount of energy use while still creating high quality athletic jeans for men.What is GapFlex? This their home-made brand of stretch technology that allows their jeans to move with you without sacrificing durability or style. They sit on your lower waist and cost $$.Jeans in Athletic Fit with GapFlex receive 4 out of 5 stars for price, durability, and style.

5. BONOBOS

BONOBOS

Bonobos started online to create a faster, easier shopping experience for men who couldn’t find their perfect pair of pants. They now have over 30 stores (they call them “Guideshops”) all over the United States. They boast being the biggest clothing brand to be built on the internet in the United States. Their prices vary depending on the style of jeans you’re looking to purchase. All of their styles come in athletic fit, so you’ll have more options while you hunt for a pair that suits you in every way.We suggest looking at Bonobos’ style called “The Blue Jean.” These are classical blue jeans that come in four fits, including athletic. You can choose from 8 different washes. They also have Bonobos’ special curved waistband that was designed with comfort and reliability in mind. The curved waistband was made to fit the natural shape of your waist regardless of what that shape might be. These jeans are mid-rise and cut to be flattering on your form without restricting your movements. “The Blue Jean” style jeans in athletic fit cost $$$.While a little higher in price, we feel that Bonobos’ “The Blue Jean” jeans deserve 4 out of 5 stars.

6. LEE

[amazon box=”B01DXPYIHO” /]

Lee might not seem to carry the same weight as some of our other brands do, but we assure you that you or someone close to you may have owned a pair of their jeans at some point.Like Levi’s, you’ll find Lee jeans in all sorts of stores both physical and online. Their jeans are durable and comfortable without costing you too much money. In fact, they are the least expensive jeans on our list. But like our former two brands, they do not offer jeans in athletic fit for women.Lee’s Extreme Motion Athletic Tapered Leg Jeans are highly rated customer favorite athletic fit jeans for men. You don’t have to worry about being off trend with these – their straight leg and tapered bottom style keeps you in fashion while still being comfortable.The waistband is designed to stretch to flex with you as you move. They come in 5 colors and are made with fabrics that can withstand any trial you put them through. Best of all, they’re only $$ at regular price.If you’re looking to save some money while still getting a pair of athletic jeans that you can wear without worry, Lee’s Extreme Motion Athletic Jeans are your best bet.With overall positive customer feedback, we give them 3.5 out of 5 stars.

OBTAIN THE BEST PAIR OF ATHLETIC FIT JEANS FOR YOU

What it all boils down to when it comes to shopping for the perfect pair of athletic fit jeans is personal style preference paired with durability, affordability, and comfort.You want a pair that will fit your unique body type and flatter your muscles, but won’t tear or become stretched out while you do what you need to.With this list as your guide, you can finally obtain the best pair of athletic jeans for you.

BUYER’S GUIDE

Like the list, but want to shop around some more? Allow us to offer some advice on how to go about doing that. Whether you shop online or in-store, we want you to go in feeling confident and prepared.If you’re shopping online, pay close attention to customer ratings and read the product descriptions thoroughly. Many websites will also provide guides to help you find the perfect size and style of athletic fit jean within their inventory. It is important to read these and any sizing charts provided, especially if you’re not sure of what your size is. Also keep in mind that different styles and fabrics might affect how the jeans will fit you.We highly encourage you to try on your athletic jeans before you purchase them when you’re in the store. Try not to shop in a hurry. Take your time and try on multiple pairs. Rome wasn’t built in a day and finding the perfect pair of jeans won’t happen on the first try. Shop around and try many different brands, styles, and colors.Finally, we encourage you to ask your friends and family what brands of jeans they swear by. Nothing beats first-hand accounts. With verbal reviews from people you trust, you know you’re getting a genuine review of the athletic fit jeans you’re considering purchasing.Good luck and happy hunting!

DENIM and PATCHES sourced this post originally published on this site

Filed Under: Blog

Levi’s, Springy Jeans and Homeboy Threads Unearth the ‘Economics of the Past’ at Preface Show

January 30, 2026 by DENIMandPATCHES

Experts from the heritage brand, the vintage reseller and the workforce development non-profit discussed how vintage and resale have completed their evolution from subcultures to serious business drivers.

DENIM and PATCHES sourced this post originally published on this site

Filed Under: Blog

Diesel Celebrates the Year of the Horse

January 30, 2026 by DENIMandPATCHES

A horse with flames tracing its mane and tail is featured throughout the collection.

DENIM and PATCHES sourced this post originally published on this site

Filed Under: Blog

5 Brands That Defined My Denim Story More Than Any Other

January 30, 2026 by DENIMandPATCHES

Denimhunters is reader-supported. If you buy after clicking a link on our site, we may earn a commission.

After Fifteen Years of Writing About Denim, These Are the Jeans That’ve Influenced Me the Most

I launched Denimhunters on January 30, 2011. I didn’t have a plan—just an obsession. I read From Cowboys to Catwalks on repeat and remember thinking, “If only I could one day write a book about denim.” Five years later, Blue Blooded was published. But it all started here, with a blog post like this one.

Denimhunters became the work of my life. I’ve poured more time into this than anything else I’ve ever done. The feedback from readers, the reputation it’s earned me, the continued love from Google—that’s all something I’m incredibly thankful for. And incredibly proud of.

To celebrate this milestone, I didn’t want to release a greatest hits list or write an autobiography. I wanted to do something that’s actually useful—even for new readers. So I’ve put together a list of the five jeans brands I’ve worn the most. Combined, they tell my story and the story of Denimhunters better than anything else I could think of.

I’m not saying these are “the best,” but they’re the ones that’ve taught me the most about denim, fit, construction, history—and helped shape how I explain it. First on Denimhunters. And now also through my own brand, Weirloom.

If you’ve been here since the early days, thank you. If you’re new, welcome. Either way, this one’s for you.


Levi’s Vintage Clothing

“Museum-Worthy Jeans You Can Wear”

Levi’s Vintage Clothing is built on the blueprint the entire denim world is measured against: original Levi’s. The real thing is museum-grade now—nobody in their right mind is fading deadstock 501s. LVC exists so you can wear those classics again.

Hunting for jeans in Paris in 2012, I found this pair of deadstock redline 501

It’s where I started too. Like a lot of people, I found my way into denim through Levi’s—but LVC was the turning point. It’s where I realised jeans had history—not just culturally, but technically. That fit, fabric, stitching, pocket shape, leg twist, even the way denim shrinks—none of it was random. All of it came from somewhere. LVC helped me start learning how to read denim.

The heart of the line is, of course, the 501. Each iteration represents a different moment in (denim) history, from slimmer post-war cuts to roomier mid-century silhouettes. For many denimheads, myself included, the 1947 remains the benchmark: a perfectly balanced fit, and the XX denim that defined what selvedge should look like.

LVC top and bottom
Never not working on DH
Stopping by the former Valencia St. factory
I wore my LVC Type I jacket and 1954 501Z jeans most of the time in San Francisco on our honeymoon

The one thing you must know before buying: most LVC jeans are shrink-to-fit. They will shrink significantly after the first wash, so you need to size with intention. Consult size charts, ask how much shrinkage to expect, and choose your size based on how you want them to fit after the first few washes—not the day you unbox them.

If you want the closest possible experience to wearing an original Levi’s garment—something historically accurate that still fades beautifully—this is the place to start. Others reinterpret the past. LVC lets you wear it. And while your non-denimhead friends might “just see” a pair of Levi’s, you’ll know you’re wearing denim history.

SHOP LEVI’S VINTAGE CLOTHING HERE

You can buy Levi’s Vintage Clothing at Cultizm and Hinoya.

Other Brands That Reproduce Levi’s (Sometimes Better)

The entire Japanese denim industry was built on reproducing Levi’s. There are dozens of brands doing it well, but these are some of my personal favourites:

  • Warehouse – Covered later, but worth noting here too
  • Full Count – Subtle, soulful, and spun for comfort and fades
  • TCB – Budget-friendly, detail-obsessed, and quietly becoming legendary

Brands That Still Make Jeans in the USA (Like LVC Used To)

When I first got into Levi’s Vintage Clothing, the jeans were made in the USA—now they’re made in Japan. But if you’re looking for American-made jeans, here are some of the brands still doing it:

  • Tellason – San Francisco-made, no-nonsense and workwear driven
  • Brave Star – Budget-friendly, factory-direct, and raw to the core
  • Freenote Cloth – Refined, well-built, and deeply American

Nudie Jeans

“Creating Tomorrow’s Denimheads”

Nudie is the gateway brand for an entire generation of denimheads, including this one. They helped bring raw denim, selvedge, and the idea of breaking in your jeans into the mainstream without watering down what made it special.

Their strength has always been philosophy as much as product. From transparency and 100% organic cotton to worldwide Repair Shops that fix your jeans for free, Nudie built a culture around wearing your denim hard and keeping it alive.

These are my friend Matt Wilson’s Average Joes

For me, Nudie played a formative role. One of the first pairs of raw jeans I really committed to was a pair of Average Joes in their original Kaihara selvedge—the denim that launched the brand in 2001.

I wore them every day for five months, unwashed. When I finally washed them, the knees were already blowing out. The stiff cotton yarn had started breaking along the sharp creases I’d worn in. That was the moment I realised: there’s no single right way to break in and wash your jeans.

I’ve donated my Average Joes to Jeans School in Amsterdam—these are the only pics I have

The six-month rule is iconic, but it’s not gospel. A pre-wear soak rinse won’t ruin the denim or prevent fades—it actually helps your jeans last longer. That’s shaped how I’ve written and taught denim ever since.

Related reading: How to Wash Raw Denim (and Every Other Kind of Jeans)

Nudie’s fits have evolved over the years, but the mix of Scandinavian simplicity and rock-and-roll attitude remains constant. And while Nudie has grown beyond raw denim into a full lifestyle offering, they’ve never abandoned the idea that denim should be worn hard, repaired, and kept alive.

If you want a brand that opens the door to raw denim and still stands for something bigger, Nudie is it. They helped create yesterday’s denimheads—and they’re shaping tomorrow’s.

Other Gateway Brands That Changed How I Saw Denim

These are some of the other brands that shaped early conversations around raw denim for a global audience:

  • Edwin – Japanese heritage with global reach
  • A.P.C. – Minimalist selvedge before it was cool
  • Naked & Famous – Loud, clever, never boring

Indigofera

“The American West—Woven in Japan, Made in Europe”

Indigofera doesn’t fit into any typical category. It’s Swedish at the core, but the visual language is pure American West—sun-bleached deserts, wide horizons, worn-in leather, faded denim. You feel that atmosphere in everything they make. It’s not reproduction, and it’s not fashion.

This was the brand that challenged my assumptions about where top-shelf jeans could be made. Up until I got my first pair—more than a decade ago now—I thought serious denim could only come from one of two places: Japan or the USA. But a pair of Clints in the No. 2 denim—made in Portugal—changed that. They weren’t just good. They were exceptional.

My first Clint No. 2 denim, new vs. worn (notice the chain stitch)

Indigofera’s jeans were built like nothing else I’d worn, and they really opened my eyes. Construction was top-notch, the fit was perfectly dialled in, and the denim was unforgettable. I wore Indigofera jeans almost exclusively for several years. The only real quirk to me is that they don’t have chain-stitched hems. Indigofera has always done it differently. I’ve come to respect, even appreciate, that choice.

Their tops are just as iconic as the jeans. The Fargo and Copeland overshirts are built like jackets but easy to wear anywhere. And the blankets—made in Norway—have become collector’s items in their own right.

The Norris shirt has been with Indigofera since day 1
These pics are from 2014, shot for a feature on me in Euroman

If you want garments with real depth—pieces that reveal more the longer you live with them—Indigofera is one of the most rewarding brands out there. Quietly original, built to last, and unlike anything else.

BUY INDIGOFERA HERE

Indigofera is sold at: Franklin & Poe (US), Iron Shop Provisions (US), Blue Beach Denim (Taiwan), and Manready Mercantile (US)

Other Brands That Make Jeans in Portugal

Indigofera isn’t the only brand making truly great jeans in Portugal. Here are a few others worth knowing:

  • Weirloom – I also make my jeans in Portugal, shaped by everything I’ve learned, not least from Indigofera
  • Benzak – Amsterdam-based denim developer with a full line made in Portugal
  • Eat Dust – Dutch motorcycle-inspired denim brand with great Portuguese-made jeans
  • Livid – Began with one-man ‘made in Norway’ jeans, since grown to a fully fledged brand

Warehouse & Co.

“Vintage Accuracy Made Approachable”

Warehouse is probably the most accessible of the Osaka Five. Where other repro labels can feel niche or intense, Warehouse has always been the calm, easy way into Japanese denim: thoughtful, precise, and immediately wearable.

Of all the brands on this list, this is the one I’ve worn the least. Between the two pairs I own, I’ve probably logged eight to ten months of actual wear. But even that was enough to understand why they matter—and why they belong here. 

These are my 1003XX Warehouse jeans

Warehouse’s identity is built on the same thing they’re best known for: Banner Denim. The Shiotani brothers dissected a 1930s Levi’s banner thread by thread to recreate a 13.5 oz. cloth with the grain, slub, and softness of pre-50s selvedge. Woven on Toyoda G3 looms, it fades into gentle highs and lows rather than high-contrast streaks.

Jeans like the 1001XX (their mid-century straight) and the 1003XX (a WWII-style cut with flannel pocket bags) show the philosophy clearly: period-correct details, iron buttons, copper rivets, rayon tab, and cotton thread. That last detail is worth noting—cotton stitching is authentic, but it breaks faster than the poly-core threads most brands use.

I had to repair the seat seam
… not the prettiest job, but it’ll do
The seams have also given up on the coin pocket

Beyond jeans, Warehouse makes some of the best loopwheel tees and sweats in the scene. Clean proportions, great fabrics, everyday pieces that explain why Warehouse has such a loyal following outside Japan as well. And why Japanese denim and ‘made in Japan’ is more popular than ever.

If you want true reproduction denim without the attitude or the barrier to entry, Warehouse is the effortless starting point—rooted in vintage, easy to wear, and built with the kind of care that keeps people coming back.

SHOP WAREHOUSE JEANS HERE

Warehouse is at Lost & Found (CA), Hinoya (JP), and Clutch Café (UK).

Other Japanese Brands That Could’ve Made This List

There are a dozen brands in Japan making jeans at this level—and any one of them could’ve taken this spot, if I’d worn them. If I had to name three I could’ve just as well have picked they’d be:

  • The Flat Head – Known for fast vertical fades, high-tension denim, and razor-sharp construction
  • Sugar Cane – Great value for money. Vintage-inspired, accessibly priced, and built with zero shortcuts
  • The Real McCoy’s – The gold standard for stitch-by-stitch perfection. Uncompromising, unmatched

Iron Heart

“Heavyweight Holy Grails with Motorcycle DNA”

Iron Heart doesn’t just make heavyweight denim—they pioneered it. Designed to be tough enough for Harley riders, they pushed denim weights into uncharted territory, and made it surprisingly wearable.

There’s something undeniably appealing about heavyweight denim. But it took me years to work myself up to it. By the time I finally got my first pair—the 634S in their signature 21 oz. selvedge—I’d worn a lot of jeans (even written a book about them). But this was still a rite of passage. And once I crossed it, I didn’t look back.

21 oz. selvedge, new vs. worn for few months

That’s probably also why I’ve worn Iron Heart more than any other brand on this list. The 634 is the best-fitting pair of jeans I’ve ever worn (at least from a brand that’s not my own 😉).

The 21 oz. selvedge is soft, breathable, and surprisingly comfortable. And everything is built to last. Since that first pair in 2018, I’ve worn the 14 oz., the slubby 16 oz., two pairs of 25 oz., and even the UHR.

25 oz. extra heavy selvedge, new vs. worn hard for at least a year

Iron Heart doesn’t chase reproduction accuracy. They use poly-core sewing thread instead of all-cotton. Softly one-wash their jeans so you don’t have to deal with unpredictable shrink-to-fits. And most importantly, they design garments that work with modern wardrobes. It’s not that they ignore the past; they improve on it. 

And the brand is so much more than the denim. Their ultra-heavy flannels in hand-picked Aspero cotton are benchmarks in the scene. The N1 deck jacket is iconic. Every stitch, every fabric, every detail is overbuilt in the best possible way—designed for durability, function, and long wear without sacrificing comfort.

25 oz. selvedge, ultra-heavy flannel, and N1 deck jacket

If you want denim and jeanswear that’s seriously tough but incredibly refined, there’s nothing quite like Iron Heart.

BUY IRON HEART HERE

Iron Heart is available at: Division Road (US), Franklin & Poe (US), Brooklyn Clothing (CA), Iron Provisions (US), and of course at Iron Heart International.

Other Heavyweight Denim Brands That Push the Limits

These are some of the brands that—like Iron Heart—take denim to extremes in weight, character, and construction.

  • Samurai – High-stakes fades, bold details, and uncompromising builds
  • SOSO Brothers – The world’s heaviest custom-made jeans (they’re 33 oz., and almost outrageous!)
  • The Strike Gold – Known for vivid fades and fabric with serious personality

The Next Chapter Starts Here

I didn’t write this piece to be nostalgic. I wrote it to remind myself—and hopefully show others—that every worn-in pair of jeans carries more than just creases and fades. They carry lessons.

Fifteen years into Denimhunters that’s still what drives me. The five brands above weren’t just my favourites—they’re my teachers. They showed me how denim is made, how it wears, and how it lasts. And eventually, they helped me understand how to make jeans of my own and launch Weirloom.

There’s plenty more to say. But for now, I’ll just say this: thanks for reading. Thanks for being part of the journey. Let’s see where the next fifteen years take us.

Understand the Details That Matter

I’m Thomas, founder of Denimhunters. I write emails that go deeper into denim—how jeans are made, why details matter, and how to make better choices without the noise.

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The post 5 Brands That Defined My Denim Story More Than Any Other appeared first on Denimhunters.

DENIM and PATCHES sourced this post originally published on this site

Filed Under: Blog

American Eagle Outfitters x Lamine Yamal

January 30, 2026 by DENIMandPATCHES

yamal

Lifestyle brand, American Eagle, has signed up with Spanish footballer, Lamine Yamal, as its global brand ambassador in a historic multi-year partnership.

Yamal is one of the most promising young football talents worldwide. The contract runs for five years starting in summer 2026 and is the first multi-year partnership of its kind for the brand.

Yamal will participate in global campaigns and limited-edition product collaborations. The signing comes with the World Cup due to take place in North and South America from June 11 to July 19, with the final being played at Metlife stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., near New York City.

Yamal

“I couldn’t be more excited to begin this journey with American Eagle,” Yamal said. “Off the field, I like to play a lot with fashion trends, and as a leading lifestyle and denim brand, AE has the product to help me bring my energy and style to life.”

Jennifer Foyle, president and executive creative director of American Eagle and Aerie, said, “Soccer attracts an unrivaled global following, and our multiyear partnership with Lamine Yamal centers AE at the heart of the fandom-highlighting our commitment to him, the sport and our customers.”

We can’t wait to see what this collaboration has in store for us – stay tuned, we will definitely keep you posted!

Meantime you can shop for the newest American Eagle collection here.

The post American Eagle Outfitters x Lamine Yamal first appeared on Denimology.

DENIM and PATCHES sourced this post originally published on this site

Filed Under: Blog

Milan Fashion Week Men’s: Fall/Winter 26-27 Denim Trends

January 29, 2026 by DENIMandPATCHES

Denim trends returned to bold washes, distressing and embellishments at Milan Fashion Week Men’s.

DENIM and PATCHES sourced this post originally published on this site

Filed Under: Blog

Milan Fashion Week Men’s Street Style

January 29, 2026 by DENIMandPATCHES

Texture was a strong theme in the street style seen during Milan Fashion Week.

DENIM and PATCHES sourced this post originally published on this site

Filed Under: Blog

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