We’ll discuss two types of jeans which are unique and need to be talked about in my opinion.
Selvedge Denim: A selvedge or selvage is simply put a self-finished edge of a fabric and hence the name (self-edge). In the olden times the looms used to weave the fabric in one continous loop by weaving up and down and this used to leave a selvedge which was there just to show one where the end of the fabric is. Selvedge made a comeback in the 80s and was publicized as a premium product and the boom actually came in the early 2000s. Selvedge denim is a more rigid denim fabric, also it attracts a niche crowd for its own unique abilities such as its rigidity, its naturally flawed fabric (believe me it’s a pro as you don’t get this in commercially produced Levi’s of any kind). Also, the fact that one is paying relatively way more for selvedge jeans makes it more and less desirable at the same time.
Raw Denim: It is the natural indigo dyed denim. It isn’t distressed ,washed and treated unlike most commercially produced jeans which are given a wash or two to give out a bit of used and worn-out look to it. Now the best thing about raw denim is its natural process of fading and leaving out colour. Raw denim will actually become personalized in the way one moves as colour will fade from areas of more pressure and in this way every part of the denim looks beautiful to the owner. One of it’s cons is that it leaves out colour even in one’s hands at times and is produced by small companies specializing in certain fields like producing such denim products, the latter also holds true for selvedge denim.
Fun fact: Ever wondered why are women’s jeans pockets so small, not even large enough to carry mobile phones? It is to keep the 8.3 billion USD handbag industry up and running. Congratulations! You just came one step ahead in being an aware consumer.