1. WHAT IS RAW DENIM?
Raw denim is exactly what it sounds like: denim in its most natural state. Also called dry denim, it hasn’t been pre-washed or shrunk during production. Untreated and stiff at first, raw denim gradually softens and shapes itself to your body. Most jeans you find in stores today have been pre-washed to soften the fabric and minimize shrinkage.
2. WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN RAW AND SELVEDGE DENIM?
Raw denim and selvedge denim are often confused, but they’re not the same. Raw denim describes the wash, unwashed and unshrunk. Selvedge denim, on the other hand, refers to how the fabric is constructed, with a distinctive finished seam on the inside of the leg made using a traditional shuttle loom.
3. HOW OFTEN SHOULD YOU WASH RAW DENIM?
While some say raw denim should never be washed, dirt and bacteria can break down the fabric. Wash them about three times a year to extend their lifespan. Always turn them inside out, use cold water, and air dry flat. Some even freeze their jeans to neutralize odors and bacteria.
For more tips, check our complete guide to denim care.
4. HOW TO BREAK IN RAW DENIM JEANS?
The secret is simple: wear them. Raw denim will feel stiff at first, but the fabric softens within a few weeks and continues to improve with use. Each pair develops its own unique creases and wear patterns based on how you move, sit, cuff, or carry items in your pockets.
5. WHY RAW DENIM GETS BETTER WITH AGE
Raw denim is designed to evolve with you. Over months and years, it develops fading, whiskering, and subtle color variations that make each pair one-of-a-kind. The longer you wear it, the more personal the story it tells.
6. COMMON MYTHS ABOUT RAW DENIM
Some believe raw denim is uncomfortable or high-maintenance. In reality, it adapts to your lifestyle and, with minimal care, can last decades. The “stiff at first” feel is intentional, it ensures the denim molds perfectly to your shape.
7. TIPS FOR LONGEVITY
To keep your raw denim in top shape: rotate between multiple pairs, avoid harsh detergents, and store them folded or hung in a cool, dry place. Simple habits can dramatically extend their lifespan.
8. RAW DENIM AND SUSTAINABILITY
Raw denim’s longevity makes it a more sustainable choice. Because it lasts longer than mass-produced pre-washed jeans, it reduces waste and encourages mindful consumption. Choosing high-quality raw denim is an investment in durability.
9. STYLING RAW DENIM
Raw denim is incredibly versatile. Pair it with a simple tee and sneakers for casual wear or dress it up with a jacket and boots. The fading that develops over time adds a subtle, lived-in character that elevates any outfit.
10. INVESTING IN QUALITY
Raw denim is an investment in craftsmanship. Choosing well-made denim ensures durability, better fit over time, and a pair that truly tells your personal story through wear and fading.
