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More than just skinny jeans, these brands specialise in stylish, well-fitted denim that will last you for a lifetime
Photo courtesy of Current/Elliott
Denim has come a long way since its inception as a miner's uniform in the late 19th century. The item's comfort, durability and versatility have made it a modern day staple in every wardrobe around the world. More than just an option for the weekend or Casual Fridays, a pair of well-fitted jeans can be easily dressed up or down.
Since the early aughts, a snug fit has been the prevalent cut for denim. However, if the recent Fashion Week collections and retail trends are any indication, skinny is finally out. The Washington Post reported that female consumers are uninspired by the skin-tight style, giving rise to daring silhouettes such as culottes and flared jeans.
Quality denim can last you for a lifetime without ever going out of style. To help you build a timeless collection, we've compiled our favourite under-the-radar designers that specialise in the casual classic.
Mother
Photo courtesy of Mother
As the name suggests, the brand’s offerings are gentle to the touch — much like a mother’s nurturing hands. Its perfectly distressed edges and uneven hemlines add a touch of je ne sais quoi to the designs. The flare styles — imbued with minimalist frays and snippets — are cut above the ankle, ideal for matching with heels.
Frame Denim
Photo courtesy of Frame Denim
Headquartered and manufactured in Los Angeles, this label specialises in dark washes and elastic materials that flatter a wide range of body types. Karlie Kloss famously collaborated with the team to create a range of jeans with extra-long inseams, making it the go-to for statuesque ladies. The site will be rolling out e-commerce starting in April.
3x1
Photo courtesy of 3x1
Total transparency is the driving force behind this denim concept: the founder has even built an open view factory space in its boutique in downtown Manhattan. Aside from the usual slim jeans and bell bottoms, the brand also produces fringed denim tops, zip-front rompers and jackets.
Current/Elliott
Photo courtesy of Current/Elliott
Emily Current and Meritt Elliot, the founders behind the brand, have been largely credited with launching boyfriend jeans into the style stratosphere back in 2008. Even with the duo out of the picture, the label is still consistently producing trendy iterations of its bestseller. Its latest style is a relaxed, low-waist cut meant to be rolled up at the ankles.
R13
Photo courtesy of R13
The perfectly rugged jeans of R13 are for tough girls only. Manufactured with denim sourced from Italy and Turkey, the slouchy, slightly distressed wares were made for rocking out at a concert. Pair them with leather jackets and vintage band tees for extra edge.
