
Denim is perhaps one of the most recognizable fabrics in the fashion world. It is, however, interesting to note that the Denim material is yet to fall out of fashion, be it the blue jeans, jackets, and even skirts. It is, however, likely that if you are one of those people who are always on the lookout for the perfect pair of blue jeans and denim jackets, you may have noticed the Raw Denim and may have come across the term Washed Denim as well, and are perhaps confused about what the difference between raw denim and washed denim is. This will be explained in the blog below.
However, before delving deeper, let’s briefly examine what denim actually is. Denim is a thick twin fabric made of cotton, which has diagonal ribbing due to its weaving design of fabric strands. Denim is actually made of these thicker strands of fabric, which is what makes denim so durable and popular for everyday wear.
Manufacturing of denim carries a number of processing stages from spinning and dyeing of the yarns made of cotton to weaving through to the final processing stages for the denim manufacture. Denim processing, which occurs after the weaving process, might lead to the production of raw denim or washed denim.
Raw denim is essentially described as denim fabric that has never been subjected to the washing process after the dyeing and weaving stage. It is therefore for this reason that raw denim has an unwashed look that is light and hard, hence the name “raw” denim. Raw denim contains undyed indigo, hence its colour being dark blue to black due to the fact that the dye has never been subjected to water as a result of washing.
Unfinished, Raw denim has not gone through the unwashed and distressed processes.
When it is brand new, raw denim feels stiff and heavy because the denim is stiff.
The wearer should break the jeans by wearing them for some time before washing.
It is the point at which the indigo is strongest before any fading and/or washing occurs.
Raw denim molds itself to the body and builds personalized wear patterns.
Raw denim keeps up with the wear path that a normal pair of jeans would follow. Raw denim has become a favorite with denim enthusiasts who love how a pair of raw denim jeans “breaks in” to form its own pattern.
On the other hand, steps involved in producing washed denim include the finishing steps. Final steps involve the denim undergoing processing from the steps in weaving and then from the steps in washing.
The washing procedures used are quite varied, ranging from the basic natural stone wash, enzymes, and vintage fades. Each and every one of the above procedures gives the jeans a distinct feel and appearance.
Denims are more comfortable and soft on the skin because the material used is already softened during production.
It permits the production of a range of finishes, like faded, stonewash, bleached, and distressed.
This is simply because the washed jeans have already been softened. Therefore, there is no time needed for break-in.
The appearance of raw denim changes with use, but the appearance of each similar style is the same for denim that is cleaned or washed.
“Washed denim is the most popular trend in regular denim because the fabric is comfy and pleasing to the eye right from the shelf.”
For the sake of comparison, the similarities and differences between these two types of denim will be as follows:
Raw Denim
Washed Denim
Raw Denim:
Washed Denim
Raw Denim:
THE WASHES
Raw Denim
Washed Jeans
Raw denim also has its fans, especially among denim enthusiasts. Below follow the reasons why people love wearing raw denim from rhysley.
1. Individual Fading
“Every pair of raw denim jeans has a story,” Jerry Lorenzo stated at the semiannual trade show in Paris, where few are found wearing any type of denim, let alone the heavier “ Los Angeles” fabrics that are characteristic of
2. Longevity & Durability
This denim has not yet been treated with a chemical process that would have softened the cloth and, as a result, it wears rather well.
3. Authentic Crafts
Blue jean fans simply love raw denim, which showcases the real art of denim manufacturing. It is raw, unadulterated denim with nothing added to it.
4. Investment Piece
“A good raw denim can last for years and become even more comfortable with time. Every time you wear the jeans, they become even more unique and visually interesting.”
When it comes to washed denim, besides the skills of the craftsmen involved, the matter of comfort and fashion also plays an important part. Let us explore the reasons for the popularity of choosing washed denim from Rhysley:
1. Comfort from Day One
It has already been softened from the time you washed it. There is nothing you need to do in order to break it in. It feels great the moment you put it on.
2. Flexible Style Options
“Denim with vintage light blue and black finishes, which has been treated in such a way as to give the vintage fades, shall give you a huge selection of options to choose from.” It shall be easy to find one according to whatever combination of clothes you may be wearing.
3. Easier to Wear, Easier to Style
The great thing about it is you don’t have to wait for the jeans to develop some character because they already come treated and pre-faded.
4. Accessible to Everyone
Commonly, the most popular kinds of Jeans that are mostly available at most clothing retailers, be it relaxed, skinny, and ripped, are all washed Jeans.
As consumers become more aware of their carbon footprint, the lifecycle involved in the production of denim becomes an area of focus too. Here is how both processes are different in the context of sustainability:
It does not require much water throughout the original process since there is no water-washing process to be done afterwards when the
However, with time, fewer replaced items may be necessary based on how long the denim will last.
However, the breaking-in may require washes to be done at home.
Washed Denim
This includes the washing process using water and chemicals in manufacturing.
Caring For Raw And Washed Denim
“The way you wash and maintain denim is greatly influenced by the kind of denim you are wearing.”
How to Take Care of Raw Denim
Raw denim versus washed denim does not only talk about looks. This also involves production, touch, and the factor of time. Raw denim represents customization and quality, and washed denim represents the ultimate fusion of comfort and style from the start. Whether it is pure denim or the latest fashion trends that you are looking to incorporate into your wardrobe, being informed of the differences between raw denim and washed denim that do exist within raw denim and washed denim will provide you with the knowledge to make an informed decision regarding which is best suited to your lifestyle. Today, due to developments within the denim industry—most notably eco-friendly designs—denim is one of the most fascinating fabric types that exist within the industry.