13.10/2025
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12.02/2021
Guide: How to choose the right jeans for men?
Jeans are an essential item in any man's wardrobe. Timeless, versatile, and durable, they can suit any style when chosen correctly. However, with so many different cuts, fabrics, and finishes available, it can be difficult to know where to start.
This guide will take you step by step through understanding denim and choosing the perfect pair of jeans for your body shape, intended use, and style.
The main cuts of jeans
Slim fit
Fitted from the thigh to the ankle without being too tight, it shapes the silhouette while maintaining a good level of comfort for everyday wear.
Straight Leg
Classic and timeless, it follows the leg without clinging to it. It suits all body types and offers a simple, elegant look that is easy to pair with other items.
Skinny Fit
Very close-fitting, it highlights slender legs and adds a decidedly modern touch. Best suited to slim figures.
Tapered fit
Wider at the thighs and tapered towards the ankle, it offers a contemporary and dynamic silhouette, ideal for a modern style.
Bootcut Fit
Slightly flared at the bottom of the leg, it evokes vintage aesthetics and is perfect for wearing with boots.
Loose Fit (Baggy)
Loose-fitting throughout, it offers a relaxed, streetwear vibe while emphasizing comfort.
Body shape advice
Trying them on is still essential. Some brands, such as Hatski, offer well-balanced cuts for shorter legs, while Atelier Float favors lengths suited to more slender figures.
UNDERSTANDING THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF DENIM FABRICS
The choice of fabric is crucial for the comfort, durability, and evolution of jeans over time.
Classic Denim
Woven in cotton twill, it offers a smooth and even surface. However, fabrics that are too smooth can be more susceptible to friction, which accelerates wear and tear.
Slub Denim
Made from textured cotton, it has visible irregularities that give it a raw and authentic look. Very attractive, it is slightly less resistant to friction.
Denim Selvedge
Recognizable by its border on the inner edge of the fabric, it is woven on traditional narrow looms. This process produces a dense, durable fabric rich in character. Each brand is distinguished by its border and its manufacturing expertise.
Raw Denim
Unwashed after dyeing, it retains its deep color and evolves naturally over time. Worn for several months without washing, it develops a unique patina specific to each user.
Slow weaving allows more air to be incorporated into the cotton, making the fabric more breathable and comfortable to wear. The inside of the fabric is often softer than the outside.
Conversely, frequent washing causes gradual shrinkage and loss of shape. It is therefore advisable to limit washing in order to preserve the cut and color of the jeans.
Recognizing good denim dye
Dye plays a key role in the appearance and longevity of denim.
- Natural or synthetic indigo: natural indigo offers a richer, more harmonious patina over time.
- Multi-bath dyeing: the more indigo baths, the deeper and more durable the color.
- Color uniformity: good dyeing is consistent, without excessive stains or irregularities.
- Gradual fading: quality denim fades subtly, without overly pronounced contrasts.
Tip: wipe a new pair of raw jeans with a damp cloth. Excessive color transfer may indicate a lower quality dye.
Different weights of denim fabric
The weight of denim, expressed in ounces per square yard (oz/yd²), directly influences the comfort and durability of jeans.
- Lightweight fabric (8 to 10 oz): soft and breathable, ideal for summer, but less durable.
- Medium-weight fabric (11 to 13 oz): the most versatile, perfect for everyday use.
- Heavyweight fabric (14 oz and above): very durable, ideal for winter and raw denim enthusiasts looking for a marked patina.
Note: heavy denim takes longer to soften, but gains character and durability.
The details that make the difference
✔ Stitching and finishes: even, tight, and reinforced in areas subject to stress.
✔ Pockets and rivets: well positioned to structure the silhouette and reinforce durability.
✔ Buttons and fastenings: sturdy metal and high-quality fastenings for greater longevity.
✔ Belt loops: securely sewn to withstand wear and tear.
✔ Size and length: a good fit is essential, as raw denim tends to stretch over time.
✔ Leather patch: the brand's signature, reinforcing the authenticity of the jeans.
Denim trends for 2026
The Japan Blue Jeans Loose Straight Blue perfectly embodies the denim trend of 2026:
A modern, balanced silhouette thanks to its loose straight cut with a high waist, combining comfort and elegance.
A 14.8 oz selvedge fabric made from American cotton, both robust and vibrant, designed to develop a natural patina over time.
An aesthetic that highlights the raw, authentic material, far from artificial effects, for jeans that evolve with you.
This piece reflects the direction of denim in 2026: less artifice, more essentials a cut designed to last, to be worn every day, and to gain character with use.
Choosing the right jeans: the essentials to remember
- Always try on jeans before buying them.
- Choose the fabric based on how you plan to wear them and the season.
- Look for high-quality finishes and well-known brands.
- Limit washing to preserve the fit and patina.
- Think long term: good jeans improve with age.
- With these tips, you are now ready to choose durable, comfortable jeans that perfectly suit your style.
