Characterized by a denim construction, denim jackets have become synonymous with men’s and women’s casual outerwear. They offer a unique combination of comfort and style that’s not found in many other coats or jackets. Even if you’ve seen or worn a denim jacket, though, there are probably some things you don’t know about them. Below, you’ll learn seven fun facts about denim jackets, some of which may surprise you.
#1) They Were Invented 10 Years After Jeans Were Invented
The origins of the modern denim jacket can be traced back to 1880, during which Levi Strauss produced what is believed to be the world’s first denim jacket. Strauss, of course, was responsible for inventing jeans as well. He found that using a warp-faced weaving pattern for cotton resulted in a stronger and more durable textile, which he used to make jeans. Using this same denim textile 10 years later, Strauss produced the world’s first denim jacket.
#2) They Are Available in Raw and Dry Denim
Like with jeans, denim jackets are available in both raw and washed denim. What’s the difference between these two types of denim exactly? The terms “raw” and “washed” denim refer to whether the denim textile was washed during production. Jackets made of raw denim are not washed production, whereas jackets made of washed denim are washed during production. Raw denim jackets offer a darker, sharper color, but many people prefer washed denim jackets because they are less susceptible to shrinkage and fading.
#3) You Can Them In Other Colors Besides Blue
When you think of denim jackets, what’s the first color that comes to mind? It’s probably blue. While light blue, as well as indigo blue, are popular choices for denim jackets, you can find denim jackets in many other colors. Denim itself is essentially cotton with a specific type of weaving pattern. As a result, it can be dyed most any color.
You can find denim jackets available in blue, red, green, black, white and countless other colors. So, don’t assume that you must choose a blue-colored denim jacket. It’s perfectly fine to experiment with other colors. Just remember to choose a denim jacket in a color that flows cohesively with the rest of the garments and accessories with which you intend to wear it. As long as your denim jacket flows with the rest of your outfit, it will help you create a more attractive and stylish appearance.
#4) They Were Designed as a Casual Alternative to Formal Suit Jackets
There’s no denying the fact that denim jackets are casual. Many men and women, in fact, wear them with jeans and t-shirts. However, it’s a little-known fact that denim jackets were originally invented as an alternative to formal suit suits. According to Strauss — the man who invented the modern denim jacket — denim jackets were marketed as a casual alternative to formal suit jackets.
#5) Some Are Made of Selvedge
You might be surprised to learn that some denim jackets are made of selvedge denim. Available for sale here at MakeYourOwnJeans, the Selvedge Denim Jacket 541 lives up to its namesake by featuring a selvedge denim construction. Selvedge denim is regarded as a higher-quality type of denim. Technically speaking, it’s still made of 100% cotton — just like all other types of genuine denim. Selvedge denim, however, features a cleaner and more concise appearance thanks to its unique weaving pattern.
Also known as self-edge denim, selvedge denim is frequently used in jeans. In recent years, though, it’s become a popular choice for denim jackets as well. If you’re looking for a high-quality denim jacket that will offer countless years of use and enjoyment, you can’t go wrong with a selvedge denim jacket.
#6) You Can Wear Them Year-Round
Contrary to popular belief, you can wear a denim jacket year-round. Some people assume that denim jackets should only be worn during the cold winter months. While you can certainly wear a denim jacket during winter, you can wear them during all other seasons of the year, including spring, summer and fall.
If you’re going to wear a denim jacket during the winter, consider pairing it with other, warmer garments. You can wear an undershirt, for example, with a thick sweater over it. Combined with a denim jacket, this is guaranteed to keep you warm during the otherwise cold winter months. If you’re going to wear a denim jacket during the summer, on the other hand, consider pairing it with lighter, cooler garments. A basic t-shirt with a pair of jeans is an excellent summertime combination. The bottom line is that you wear a denim jacket year-round; you don’t have to limit yourself to only wearing it during the winter. Denim jackets are incredibly versatile can be worn throughout the entire year; you just need to choose the right garments and accessories with which to wear it.
#7) They Are Eas to Maintain
You can rest assured knowing that denim jackets are easy to maintain. Being that denim is made of cotton, you can wash your denim jacket in the washing machine. You don’t have to get it dry cleaned. Rather, when your denim jacket is dirty, simply place it in the washing machine with an appropriate amount of liquid detergent. When finished, you can then dry your denim jacket by either tumbling dry it or hanging it on a line.
Of course, you can also spot clean your denim jacket. You don’t necessarily have to clean your denim jacket in the washing machine each time it’s dirty. If there’s only a minor stain or blemish it, try spot cleaning your denim jacket with a wet washcloth and some liquid detergent. Blotting the surface of your denim jacket should release the stain, resulting in a cleaner appearance.
Now that you know a little about denim jacket, head over to our online store to find the perfect denim jacket for your personal needs. MakeYourOwnJeans offers one of the largest selections of denim jackets, jackets and other high-end denim garments.
