Jeans

jeans

Blue jeans fading

Manifattura genovese, abito da festa in tela di genova (jeans), 1850-1900 ca.

Closeup of copper rivet on jeans

Photo étiquette Levi's 501

Jeans are a type of pants or trousers, typically made from denim or dungaree cloth. Often the term "jeans" refers to a particular style of trousers, called "blue jeans," which were invented by Jacob W. Davis in partnership with Levi Strauss & Co. in 1871 and patented by Jacob W. Davis and Levi Strauss on May 20, 1873. Prior to the Levi Strauss patented trousers, the term "blue jeans" had been long in use for various garments (including trousers, overalls, and coats), constructed from blue-colored denim.

History

The history of jeans dates back to the 19th century, where they were originally designed as workwear for miners and cowboys. They gained popularity due to their durability and comfort. Over the years, jeans have evolved from being a symbol of rebellion in the 1950s and 1960s to becoming a staple of various fashion trends throughout the decades.

Manufacturing

Jeans are made by sewing together pieces of denim fabric, which is woven from cotton yarn. The manufacturing process includes cutting the fabric, sewing it together, and then adding features such as pockets, zippers, and buttons. The process may also include treatments and washes to give the jeans a particular look or feel, such as stone washing, distressing, or dyeing.

Styles and Fits

There are many styles and fits of jeans, including but not limited to skinny, slim, straight, bootcut, and flare. The rise of jeans (the distance from the crotch to the waistband) can also vary, offering high-rise, mid-rise, and low-rise options to cater to different body types and fashion preferences.

Cultural Impact

Jeans have had a significant cultural impact throughout the world. They are often associated with various music genres, youth subcultures, and fashion movements. Jeans have transcended social and economic boundaries, being worn by people of all ages and backgrounds.

Environmental Impact

The production of jeans has been criticized for its environmental impact, including the use of large amounts of water and chemicals in the cotton farming and denim manufacturing processes. Efforts are being made to produce jeans in more sustainable ways, including using organic cotton, recycling denim, and reducing water usage.

Care and Maintenance

To maintain the appearance and longevity of jeans, it is recommended to wash them sparingly and avoid using harsh detergents. Some enthusiasts prefer to freeze their jeans or use alternative cleaning methods to preserve the fabric and reduce water usage.

See Also

• Denim
• Fashion
• Sustainable fashion
• Levi Strauss & Co.