For denim lovers around the world, raw denim has an irresistible charm. Unlike most mass-market jeans that are pre-washed or treated, raw denim retains its original state—slightly coarse yet incredibly durable.
But for those just starting to explore denim, questions naturally arise: What exactly is raw denim? How is it different from regular denim? How should I care for it? We’re here to guide you through it all.
What Is Raw Denim?
Raw denim refers to denim fabric that has not been washed or pre-shrunk during production. This gives it a stiffer hand feel at first, but as time goes on, it gradually softens and molds to your body, creating a personalized fit and character.
The Beauty of Raw Denim
If you want to feel the change of time, you will feel it clearly on the raw denim. The longer you wear it, the more personalized faded texture will gradually appear, which is the natural faded aesthetic of the raw denim. Because it is not processed, raw denim is usually thicker and more wear-resistant than ordinary denim. The longer you wear it, the more comfortable and changeable it will be.
How to Care for Raw Denim
There’s a common saying among denim fans: don’t wash your raw denim for the first six months. While it’s not a strict rule, it’s ideal to wear your raw denim for at least 2–3 months before the first wash to encourage more defined fading. If your raw denim develops odors, you can seal it in a bag and place them in the freezer overnight—this kills bacteria and neutralizes smells without damaging the fabric.
How to Wash It
Before washing raw denim for the first time, make sure you’ve worn it for a while. Hand washing or soaking in cold water is recommended to preserve the fabric. Avoid using a washing machine or harsh detergents. A small amount of mild, denim-safe detergent will do.
Turn your raw denim jacket or jeans inside out to reduce surface abrasion, and gently rub the soiled areas. After washing, hang them to air dry in the shade—never use a dryer or expose them to direct sunlight, as it can cause shrinking and fading inconsistencies.
Raw denim is like a friend who accompanies you and records your life trajectory. You can see the traces of life from it, and it will gradually "embrace" you and become the one that suits you best. Unlike fast fashion, it requires time, care, and patience—and that’s exactly what makes it so rewarding.