Get to Know Different Types of Denim Fabrics!
Have you ever walked into a clothing store, only to be overwhelmed by the different types of denim available in various shades, textures, weights, and finishes? The labels such as “washes” and “treated denim” might confuse you even further. Don’t worry, finding the right pair of jeans can be a journey, and each type of denim has its own unique qualities. Whether you’re looking for a pair that molds to your body or something that provides added comfort and flexibility, there’s a type of denim out there for you. In this article, we’ll dive into the various types of denim fabrics available, so you can find the perfect pair to fit your needs and style.
- Raw/Unwashed/Dry Denim
This type of denim hasn’t been washed or treated after the dying process. As a result, the fabric is stiff to the touch and has a natural distressed look. Raw denim will fade based on the person’s body and their daily activities. This type of denim is typically found in premium denim lines and is a small niche in the overall market.
- Washed Denim
In contrast, washed denim is treated and washed after the dying process. Most denim fabrics are sold as washed, and there are many types of washed denim, such as Acid Wash, Stone Wash, and Enzyme Wash.
Acid wash denim is created by soaking the denim in a mixture of bleach and pumice stones, breaking down the fabric fibers and creating a mottled, bleached-out appearance. This process gives the denim a unique, vintage-inspired look, often associated with 1980s and 1990s fashion. However, it is harsh on the fabric and can weaken it, reducing its overall durability.
Stone wash denim, on the other hand, is created by washing the denim with pumice stones and chemicals, breaking down the fabric fibers and creating a softer, more flexible texture. This type of denim is a popular choice for those who prefer a more relaxed, casual look, and its faded appearance gives it a worn-in, vintage feel. However, like acid wash denim, stone washing can also weaken the fabric and reduce its durability.
Enzyme wash denim is treated with natural enzymes to produce a soft, faded, worn-in look. The process involves soaking the denim in a mixture of water and enzymes, which breaks down the fabric fibers and creates a softer, more flexible texture. The use of natural enzymes helps preserve the integrity of the fabric, making it a great choice for those who value both style and quality.
- 100% Cotton Denim/Rigid Denim
This is the regular and original denim material made from 100% cotton without any elastane/stretch fibers. It is versatile, comfortable to wear, durable, and can be used in various ways to create other types of denim.
- Stretch Denim
This type of denim is made from cotton denim blended with stretchy synthetic materials such as Elastane/Lycra/Spandex. It is commonly used in form-fitting denim, such as skinny jeans.
- Sanforized Denim/Preshrunk Denim
Most denim fabrics on the market are Sanforized Denim, with only a few being Raw Denim. Sanforized denim undergoes treatment to prevent shrinkage after washing, making it softer but less durable than Raw Denim.
- Selvedge Denim / Selvage Denim / Self-Edge Denim
This type of denim typically has edges with colored bands (red, orange, green, white, brown, yellow). It is common for this fabric to be made into jackets and is regarded as a higher quality of denim fabric because the edge cannot fray naturally like lower-grade denims. Selvedge does not have an open edge that must be stitched, unlike lower-quality denims. This type of denim fabric is mainly produced in Japan.
- Crushed Denim
This type of denim fabric receives special treatment to give it a permanently wrinkled or crushed appearance. It is popularly applied to stone-washed or acid-washed denim for a worn-out aesthetic and is typically made into jackets.
- Poly Denim / Polyester Denim / Polycore Denim
While denim fabrics are usually made of 100% cotton, this type of fabric contains a blend of cotton and polyester and any other artificial fibers such as Lyocell/Tencel and Nylon. Although it is often considered not real denim, this blend has the advantages of both cotton and polyester, such as good absorbency, strength, durability, smoothness, and wrinkle-free qualities. This type of denim fabric also washes and dries quickly, is lighter than pure cotton denim, and is soft to the touch, stretchy, and easy to care for.
In conclusion, whether you prefer raw, washed, stretch, or selvedge denim, there is a pair that will meet your needs and style. The next time you’re in the market for new jeans, remember that the options are nearly endless, and you’re sure to find a pair you love. Who knows, you may even discover a new type of denim that becomes your favorite!