The Top 4 Denim Brands Everyone Needs In Their Wardrobe
Besides Levi's, here are the best denim brands that deliver on quality and cut, making them great investments as everyday staples.
When it comes to essential wardrobe pieces, jeans, denim skirts, and denim shirts stand out as must-haves. Their versatility makes them suitable for wear across all four seasons—spring, summer, fall, and winter—and adaptable to various styles, whether casual, office-appropriate, or even with a touch of allure. The widespread appeal of denim has fostered the growth of renowned brands specializing in jeans, such as APC from France, Nudie Jeans from Sweden, and Diesel from Italy, all of which command attention from ardent denim enthusiasts.
APC
APC, founded by Jean Touitou in 1987 in France, holds a revered status among aficionados of French-style fashion. Touitou, formerly engaged in packaging at Kenzo, infused the brand with simplicity and sophistication emblematic of French design sensibilities.
APC excels in utilizing denim fabric, particularly "Raw Denim," which undergoes no washing or water treatment processes. This raw denim gradually conforms to the wearer's shape through natural abrasion, developing unique creases and fading patterns over time.
Raw Denim jeans, when worn, will gradually create a shape that suits the wearer through the abrasion process. Often touted as 'Living Denim', even the colour of the fabric will fade and change differently depending on wrinkling due to daily activities, making each piece a personal one.
Embodying a minimalist French aesthetic, APC has garnered admiration from celebrities, including style icon Jane Birkin, who collaborated with the brand on the "APC x Jane Birkin Interaction" collection.
Nudie Jeans
Nudie Jeans, established in Sweden in 2001 by Maria Erixon, boasts a rich heritage rooted in traditional craftsmanship and sustainable practices. Erixon, who previously served as a designer for Lee Europe, brought her expertise to the brand, shaping its identity as a beacon of quality and ethical fashion.
At the heart of Nudie Jeans' appeal lies its meticulous attention to detail and commitment to using exclusive patented fabrics. Each pair of jeans is crafted with precision, employing time-honored Italian hand-sewing techniques to ensure impeccable quality and fit. The brand's dedication to craftsmanship is evident in its well-fitted cuts, which have become synonymous with Nudie Jeans' signature aesthetic.
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, Nudie Jeans is at the forefront of sustainable fashion, pioneering the use of 100% organic cotton long before it became a mainstream trend. Within a decade of its inception, Nudie Jeans undertook comprehensive reforms across its entire supply chain to promote environmental stewardship and combat land desertification. By implementing sustainable farming practices and transparent production processes, the brand sets a high standard for eco-conscious fashion.
Diesel
Diesel, the renowned Italian fashion brand, has garnered widespread acclaim for its innovative designs and distinctive approach to denim. Founded in 1978 by Renzo Rosso, Diesel has evolved into a global powerhouse, captivating audiences with its bold aesthetic and cutting-edge craftsmanship.
While Diesel is celebrated for its diverse product offerings, including apparel, accessories, and fragrances, it is perhaps best known for its iconic denim collections. The brand's jeans, adorned with the signature 'D' logo, have become coveted wardrobe staples, favoured for their premium quality and modern style.
Alongside its acclaimed denim bags and T-shirts, Diesel's jeans embody the romantic allure of Italian craftsmanship. Renowned for its high-quality denim and innovative washing techniques, Diesel offers an authentic and contemporary denim experience.
Calvin Klein
In the realm of American denim, Levi's and Calvin Klein reign supreme. Levi's, established in 1853, has become synonymous with denim culture globally, influencing the widespread adoption of jeans in everyday attire. Calvin Klein, founded in the 1960s by its eponymous designer, is celebrated for its sleek and modern designs, embodying the essence of American denim culture.
Despite its diverse product lines spanning underwear, fashion, and fragrance, Calvin Klein's denim collection maintains a pivotal role in the fashion industry. Leveraging partnerships with top celebrities like supermodel Kendall Jenner and K-pop sensations Blackpink's Jennie and BTS' Jungkook, Calvin Klein continues to captivate a youthful demographic, expanding its reach and relevance in the ever-evolving fashion landscape.