Featuring a denim construction, denim jackets are a popular choice of outerwear worn by men and women of all ages. They usually feature a light blue color resembling that of jeans. But even if you’re familiar with the basic design of denim jackets, there are probably some things you don’t know about them.
#1) Denim Jackets Were Invented in the 1800s
You might be surprised to learn that denim jackets have been around for over a century. According to Wikipedia, Levi Strauss was responsible for creating the world’s first denim jacket in the 1880s. Levi Strauss originally produced denim jeans, and about 10 years after he invented jeans, Strauss produced a jacket using the same denim fabric.
#2) Wearing a Denim Jacket With Jeans is a ‘Canadian Tuxedo’
While denim jackets are considered casual wear, wearing one with denim jeans is actually known as a “Canadian tuxedo.” The term “Canadian tuxedo” was coined during the 1950s after American singer and actor Bing Crosby was seen wearing a denim jacket with jeans. Even after all those years, the term “Canadian tuxedo” is still used to describe an outfit consisting of a denim jacket with denim jeans.
#3) Denim Jackets Were Popularized During the 1970s
Although they were invented in the 1880s, denim jackets didn’t become truly popular until the 1970s. During this time, people began to explore new ways to enhance their personal style, thus leading to a newfound popularity for denim jackets. By the end of the 1970s, denim jackets were a mainstay garment worn by millions of men and women. Today, denim jackets remain one of the most popular forms of outerwear. Regardless of where you live, you’ll probably see people wearing denim jackets.
#4) Google Helped Develop a High-Tech Denim Jacket
When you think of companies that produce and sell denim jackets, Google probably isn’t at the top of your list. Nonetheless, the search engine company did, in fact, develop a denim jacket. In 2017, Google teamed up with Levi Strauss to produce a high-tech denim jacket. This wasn’t just any ordinary denim jacket. Rather, it featured a built-in computer processor, a battery and even a touchscreen panel. While it’s unlikely that Google’s high-tech denim jacket will replace traditional denim jackets, it was still an impressive display of technical innovation by one of the world’s leading tech companies.
#5) Denim Jackets Are Typically Made of Washed Denim
Although there are exceptions, most denim jackets are made of washed denim. What is washed denim exactly, and how does it differ from unwashed denim? Washed denim is made of the same cotton fabric as unwashed denim. The difference is that washed denim is literally washed in water during production, whereas unwashed denim is not washed. Jackets and other garments made of washed denim are less likely to fade than garments made of unwashed denim. When denim is washed, some of the loose dye compounds will be released. Therefore, washed denim is less likely to fade when it’s washed and dried.
#6) You Can Order Denim Jackets in Custom Sizes
When shopping for a denim jacket, consider ordering a custom-sized jacket that’s designed specifically for the size and shape of your body. It’s a little-known fact that denim jackets are available in custom sizes. In other words, you don’t have to choose a denim jacket in a standard size like small, medium, large or extra large. At MakeYourJeans, we offer custom sizing on all denim jackets, as well as denim jeans, at no additional charge.
#7) Denim Jackets Can Last for Decades
While denim jackets cost money, you should think of it as a long-term investment in your personal style. When properly cared for, a denim jacket can last for decades. The strong, durable denim fabric can withstand countless years of usage, all while showing little or no signs of wear in the process. You won’t find this same level of longevity in other coats or jackets. As a result, purchasing a denim jacket is a smart financial investment. Unlike other coats and jackets, it won’t degrade or sustain damage shortly after you purchase it. Just follow the manufacturer’s care instructions, and your denim jacket can last for decades.
To make your denim jacket last for decades, consider the following maintenance and care tips:
- Check the care label for instructions by the manufacturer on how to clean your denim jacket.
- Use cold water when washing your denim jacket.
- Either line dry your denim jacket or use the low-heat “tumble” setting on your dryer.
- Avoid using bleach or other harsh chemicals to clean your denim jacket.
- Choose a denim jacket in the right size for your body. If it’s already small, you could be forced to replace it with a larger denim jacket shortly down the road.
- Use a lint roller to quickly and easily remove lint, dirt and debris from your denim jacket.
#8) Some Denim Jackets Feature a Padded or Quilted Interior
When shopping for a denim jacket, you may discover that some feature a soft padded or quilted interior. They aren’t as common as non-quilted denim jackets, but they’ve gained momentum in recent years as a popular choice of winter apparel. With a padded or quilted interior, these denim jackets offer a superior level of warmth. If you live in a cold region and want added warmth for the coming winter months, you can’t go wrong with a padded or quilted denim jacket.
#9) Denim Jackets Offer a Classic, Timeless Style
Denim jackets have been around for over a century, with some of the first denim jackets appearing in the 1880s. Since then, however, their design and construction has remained relatively the same. Denim jackets are still made of the same denim fabric as those produced over a century ago, and they still feature a similar style. As a result, you can rest assured knowing that your denim jacket won’t go out of style anytime soon. Whether it’s one or 10 years from now, your denim jacket will remain stylish.
