It takes years of skills to master a pair of brand-new un-worn jeans that look vintage. So how do these brands do it and what should you look for in a good quality vintage denim item of clothing?
AGOLDE is at the forefront of vintage denim finishes. The brand turns to the latest sustainable technologies, like ozone machines, to fade its denim. Ozone uses the same technology as that formed naturally during a lightning storm to give denim that worn-in look without the use of hot water or bleach.
A surprising number of vintage denim brands recycle discarded textiles to reconstruct brand new clothing. You can't argue with the authenticity of that! Labels that have turned to this initiative have sustainability as their core value. Look to labels E.L.V. DENIM, Boyish (pictured), and RE/DONE for inspiration.
Authentic vintage denim features to look for include light blue tones, soft and supple fabric, and fading in all the right areas like the knees and bum.
BRANDS
AGOLDE
USA
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AGOLDE is a Los Angeles brand that excels at crafting premium vintage style denim and soft casual basics. The label is a strong advocate for made in USA sustainability.
B Sides
USA
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B Sides is a vintage-style jeans label that sources premium fabrics from denim mills in USA. With signature patchwork detailing, these jeans are new yet feel authentically time-worn vintage.
Boyish
USA
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BOYISH is a line of sustainable women's denim featuring vintage finishes and modern cuts. Produced entirely of recycled eco-friendly fabrics.
Current/Elliott
USA
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Current/Elliott is the denim brand to thank for the resurrection of Boyfriend Fit jeans. Find super-soft jeans with a truly authentic worn-in aesthetic.
E.L.V. Denim
United Kingdom
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E.L.V. DENIM, short for East London Vintage where the sustainable line is made, transforms discarded denim into truly modern, original pieces.
Joe's Jeans
USA
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Joe's Jeans, founded in 2001 by Creative Director Joe Dahan, create everyday vintage-inspired jeans lauded for it's superb fit.
Jordache
USA
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Jordache is an iconic made in USA denim brand born in 1978. It is known for a casual chic approach to denim and they have a distinctly 80's vibe.
Lee Vintage Modern
USA
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Lee Vintage Modern, the collection by Lee Jeans, has energized some of the brand's classic heritage pieces for today's modern lifestyle.
Levi's
USA
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Levi's is the All-American denim brand reinventing jeans for today's aesthetic. Famed for classic cuts, vintage finishes and iconic styles.
Miaou
USA
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Miaou is a vintage-style brand for its signature trousers, bustier tops and body-hugging jeans. Expect casual 90s supermodel glamour.
MOTHER
USA
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MOTHER is a premium denim brand that has models salivating over its super-soft fabrics, expert washes, and incredible cuts.
One Teaspoon
Australia
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ONETEASPOON designs vintage-style denim infused with a healthy dose of Rock 'n Roll glamour. Sexy, rugged denim for the casual lifestyle.