The difference between jeans and denim
Jean and denim are each different materials used in making the everyday pair of 'jeans'. The difference comes about in the production of both fabrics: denim is woven with two different colored yarns whereas jean is woven with two yarns that are both the same color. Denim tends to be more expensive and durable whereas jean is used for lighter clothing such as shirts. There are many companies out there such as Evisu and G-STAR RAW who use denim in its raw form to make their product, while other companies will use a blend of materials.
Factors to examine when considering which pair is right for you:
1. Occasion
Wearing jeans that are occasion appropriate is extremely important. Jeans that have a darker wash are more suitable at posh restaurants or trendy nightclubs. They tend to be more formal in general, even at the workplace. Lighter fades are worn more during the day and early evening. Many men decide to keep fewer than five pairs as a part of their wardrobe however the more fashion forward male can experiment with different washes, fades and designs. There are endless possibilities in the market today.
2. Fit
The fit is probably the most crucial factor when buying a new pair of jeans. Many men make the mistake of choosing the wrong cut for their body type. Some of the standard fits include straight leg, bootcut, relaxed and slim fit/skinny. Each cut is made to fit a different body build. For example, slim fitting jeans are made for the more slender male and tend to be more snug starting from the hips all the way down to the ankle. For men who have a bigger build, a relaxed fit would be more suitable because there is more room in the legs. Choose out 4-5 pairs of jeans that spark your interest and try them all on to compare. Walk around the store for a few minutes, sit down, move around and get a feel for the pair you have on. The 'Squat Test' is a good indication on how tight the pair is. The rule of thumb generally says that if you can squat all the way down to the floor (this means the top half of your legs are parallel to the floor), the pair is a good fit. Your new jeans shouldn’t hug your body to the point that they become a second layer of skin. Usually, a finger or two in between the waist and waistband is a good fit. Ultimately, comfort is the determining factor for most men. If a man is going to invest in a pair of jeans, he is going to want to be extremely comfortable. If the jeans don’t feel right, they’re not the right pair for you.
3. Material
The jean and denim market has vastly expanded with the introduction of manmade fibers. Today, there are many hybrids available that mix jean and denim with materials such as spandex and polyester. Materials such as spandex give jeans extra stretch to make the jeans adapt to your body frame whereas jeans made from pure denim will be more rugged and will take time to break in.
4. Price
The price of jeans can be quite diverse depending on various factors. Pairs can run anywhere from $50 up to $500, depending on the brand! The price is often an indication of quality however many companies who produce offshore in countries such as China and Bangladesh have improved the quality of their product but mark it up astronomically to make a large profit. When looking at a pair of jeans it’s important not only to look at where it is made but how it is made. Many companies that produce locally will often be more expensive because of high labor costs. However, each pair receives more attention as domestic companies produce in smaller amounts and prefer their product demonstrate a great attention to detail. Earnest Sewn and Sharkah Chakra are just two examples of companies who value quality and individual style above all else. If you’re willing to considerably invest in a pair of jeans, do the research to find out how those jeans are produced and what makes them superior to competing brands. An emerging trend in the denim and jean market is also 'custom made' or 'custom fitted' jeans. These will cost more than buying a pair in store because each pair will differ according to a person’s measurements. Brands such as APO Jeans will customize the rivets on their product in materials such as gold or diamonds. For those who have a creative edge, the 'Do-It-Yourself' technique has also become widely popular to distress, dye and manipulate the look of your jeans to fit your personal style and expression. There will always be inexpensive and expensive jeans, it’s all about what fits your lifestyle and budget.
The denim and jean market has become very vast over the past decade. With the emergence of new materials, designs and methods of production, the possibilities are endless. Look at the occasion, fit, material and pricing of each pair to find one that matches what you’re looking for. Don’t be afraid to try on new styles, cuts and washes; you will learn more about your personal style and how to dress according to your body.
