All Weather Selvedge

FAQ

Selvedge weave was the original method Levi Strauss used to create his famous blue jeans. His intention was to create a durable, workwear fabric. It is known for its distinct, colored, tightly woven edge, which prevents the fabric from unraveling or fraying. Selvedge denim can only be created on a traditional shuttle loom in small batches. However, when these looms are paired with the experienced artisans of Japan's renowned fabric mills, incredible variation in the fabric's characteristics (ie. color, texture, weight etc.) are possible.

The athletic fit allows for a roomy top block, with a taper below the knee. It is a handsome cut that works for most American men with a waist size between 28-40. Because of the nature of the fabric (100% cotton, selvedge) and the manner in which they are constructed (athletic cut), the jeans will actually make you look more athletic!

  1. Wash Sparingly: Avoid frequent washing, as it can cause faster fading and loss of indigo color. Instead, spot clean when needed and hang the jeans inside out to air them out.
  2. Cold Water: When washing is necessary, turn the jeans inside out and wash them in cold water to minimize color loss.
  3. Gentle Cycle: Use a gentle cycle or hand wash setting on your washing machine to reduce abrasion.
  4. Mild Detergent: Use a mild detergent formulated for dark colors to preserve the indigo dye.
  5. Air Dry: Hang the jeans to air dry. Avoid using a dryer, as heat can shrink and damage the fabric.
  6. Avoid Ironing: If wrinkles are an issue, avoid using a hot iron directly on the denim. Instead, steam or press with a cloth in between.
  • The most IMPORTANT part of the wash process is to remember to HANG DRY. Placing your jeans in the dryer can cause unattractive streaks to appear on your product or disrupt your hard earned fades.

Remember that over time, selvedge denim will naturally develop unique fading patterns, so embrace the individual character that comes with proper care and wear.

Yes. We can have your jeans hemmed for you for a small fee. Expect a small delay in delivery. However, hemmed jeans cannot be returned. For that reason, we suggest you make sure your jeans fit before hemming them. As a member, you can access our in-house hemming & repair service for any denim products you own.

Sanforization is a process used in textile manufacturing to pre-shrink fabrics, particularly cotton, before they are cut and sewn into garments. This process involves dampening the fabric, then mechanically stretching and manipulating it before subjecting it to heat. The combination of moisture, tension, and heat causes the fabric to shrink to a predetermined size, reducing the potential for further shrinking when the finished garment is washed or exposed to moisture. Sanforization helps ensure that clothes maintain their intended size and shape after washing.

All of AW's jean styles are sanforized except for the raw denim. In the case of raw denim, we believe that unsanforization leaves the fabric with the greatest capability to mold to the wearer's body when done right.

That being said, each raw denim has a calculated shrinkage rating which is noted in the description. We  account for that shrinkage by cutting a slightly bigger than advertised pair of jeans (ie. a 34x32 is a 34+a little bit more).

Nonetheless, the denim is NOT vanity sized and if you aren't used to true to waist sizing, 100% cotton jeans, or selvedge denim in general, we recommend you size up 1 size.

Yes, selvedge jeans often have a break-in period. Due to their tightly woven and less processed nature, selvedge denim can initially feel stiffer compared to regular denim. The jeans will gradually soften and conform to your body over time with regular wear. This process can take a few weeks to several months, depending on how often you wear them and your activities. Some enthusiasts consider this period part of the charm of selvedge denim, as the jeans develop unique fades and creases that reflect your personal wear pattern.

Yes, selvedge jeans can stretch with wear, but the degree of stretching can vary depending on factors like the fabric's composition, fit, and how often you wear them.

While the initial break-in period might involve some stiffness, over time, the jeans can relax and mold to your body, leading to a more comfortable fit. Keep in mind that different selvedge denim fabrics have varying levels of elasticity, so it's advisable to choose a size that fits snugly initially, considering that the jeans may stretch slightly with wear.

Yes, selvedge denim is generally considered to be more durable than regular denim. The weaving method used in selvedge denim production creates a denser and tighter fabric, resulting in enhanced durability. The self-edge (selvedge) prevents fraying, and the traditional production techniques often involve higher quality control, contributing to a longer lifespan. However, durability can also depend on factors like the weight of the fabric, the weave, and how you care for the jeans. Proper care, including avoiding frequent washing and following manufacturer recommendations, can further extend the life of selvedge denim jeans.

On another note, when your jeans do rip or tear, this is called character development. Find a tailor that can do specialty repairs and turn the damage into your own unique style! Your jeans will look even better.

Yes, there are various types of selvedge denim, each with unique characteristics. These differences can include the color, weight, weave pattern, and origin of the denim. Some examples of different types of selvedge denim include Japanese selvedge denim, which is known for its high quality and unique textures, and raw selvedge denim, which hasn't undergone any pre-washing treatments. Different brands and manufacturers may also offer their own variations of selvedge denim, allowing you to choose based on your preferences for appearance, comfort, and style.

To determine the right size of selvedge denim jeans, it's recommended to consult the size chart. AW's jeans fit true to the waist. They are not vanity sized as most other brands are. Measure your waist, hips, inseam, and thigh circumference, and then compare these measurements to the size chart. Usually, the thigh measurement will give you a more precise indication of your waist size for the athletic fit.

Keep in mind that selvedge denim can have a different fit and initial stiffness compared to regular denim, so you might consider sizing up if you prefer a more relaxed fit. Read the descriptions under each style. They will give you some insight on the nature of each fabric.