selvedge denim

What is selvedge denim?

First called “self-edge” selvedge is the narrow , tightly woven band on both edges of the denim fabric. Selvedge prevents the edge of the jean from unravelling and shows a clean, finished look. Selvedge is done on old shuttle looms. The slower pace of shuttle looms puts less tension on the yarn. And it’s a fact that shuttle looms tolerate more slubs in the yarn, which add character to the denim fabric.

How-To Avoid Fake Selvedge Denim

I began looking on Poshmark, eBay, and Googling Selvedge denim and quickly learned that there is a lot of misinformation out there, and also a lot of fakes. Some companies even sew something into the jean that mimics the look of a selvedge denim. I knew that I didn’t want to risk getting a fake pair, so I began researching places to buy new or authentic selvedge. I decided that I wanted to order Levi’s specifically because I loved the idea of having a pair of the OGs. I found JEANSLOVESHOP on Etsy and Lindsey, the owner, gave me a huge education on vintage Levi’s and I’m thrilled to be able to share her knowledge and passion with you!

Vintage Levi’s Selvedge 501’s

Lindsey, the owner at JEANSLOVESHOP on Etsy is INCREDIBLE. Her shop boasts all 5 Star reviews, and she made the experience special and easy! On her shop, she shares her story of a life-long love of vintage Levi’s, and that comes through in her exceptional attention to detail and incredible knowledge. Instead of guessing a praying that a pair would fit, based solely on my typical size (which we all know can be a crapshoot), Lindsey helped me to measure a pair of jeans I already owned and with several back-and-forth messages, she was able to send me the options in her shop that she thought would be a great fit for me. The result? A pair of jeans older than I am that fit like they were made for me!

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Hi there! Happy Monday!

I hope you had a wonderful weekend and a joyous Easter, if you celebrate!

As a kid I had a terrible time finding jeans. I was tall and thin and jeans that fit in the waist were usually too short. I’ll never forget wanting a pair of Limited Too rhinestone jeans, but they didn’t come in “slim fit” so I headed home with plain ‘ole denim jeans. I don’t know why in the 90’s and early 2000’s kids pants didn’t come with adjustable waists, but I digress. In high school I was shopping with my mom (our favorite thing to do together, and when we got along the best ; ) )and I tried on designer jeans. They fit. So, while the price point was WAY more than they’d ever spent on jeans for me, I rocked Seven For All Mankind, Citizens of Humanity, True Religion, Paige…fast forward to college and more stores were offering more sizing options, and I began wearing most of my jeans from more affordable places again. For the past decade or so, most of my jeans have come from Express, Abercrombie & Fitch, H&M, and Express. Recently I bought a pair of Citizens of Humanity Liya (pronounced Leah) and I want to share my thoughts.

Citizen’s of Humanity Liya

A friend of my, a true denim goddess, was able to get me a steal of a deal (I’m talking 70+% off) on these jeans, which is what pushed me to take the plunge back into designer denim. These jeans are a thick, stiff denim and are fitted through the hip and thigh, but then straight down (similar to the Wedgie Fit Levi or Levi 501). When I first put these on they were perfect in the waist, bum, and thigh, but tight in the calf (runner probz) but after a day or so of wear, they were perfect. I haven’t worn Citizens in so long, but immediately remembered how they keep their shape as opposed to cheaper denim which can stretch out over time and result in a diaper butt.

Why I’m Investing in Sustainable vs. Fast Fashion

Over the past couple of years, I have transitioned my wardrobe to be a capsule wardrobe that consists of all neutrals (read about that here) and now that I’ve done that, I am working to buy higher-quality (often this means designer or more expensive) sustainable clothing and accessories vs. fast fashion. I will still buy my beloved Target and H&M for anything “trendy” or that I won’t be wearing repeatedly (think a wedding guest dress or a trend that will not be evergreen).

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Citizens of Humanity Liya Jeans

*I bought my true size, but next time would potentially even size down because the calves were initially tight, but the rest of the jean stretched quickly. I do love that designer denim begins to form to your body. It feels special and luxurious.

My Favorite “Mom” Jeans

Levi Wedgie Jean

My Next Denim Purchase

Levi’s 501 Selvedge Jeans

Do you own designer jeans? Are you a fast-fashion shopper? Do you buy sustainable items? I would love to know!

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