What Is Raw Denim? A Guide to Craft, Culture & Care

What Is Raw Denim?

Definition

Raw denim (also called dry denim) is unwashed and untreated fabric straight from the loom. It hasn’t gone through any pre-fading or softening processes, leaving it stiff and rich in color.

Key Traits

• Color: Deep indigo blue

• Feel: Initially stiff, softens with wear

• Fade: Creates unique patterns based on the wearer's movements and habits

Why People Love Raw Denim

Authenticity

Each pair becomes unique, reflecting your life and movement.

Durability

With no factory washings, the fabric lasts longer and stays stronger.

Sustainability

Raw denim skips chemical distressing, saving water and reducing impact—perfect for conscious wearers.

How to Wash Raw Denim

Wait Before Washing

Hold off on washing for at least 6 months to let natural fades set in.

Washing Steps

1. Turn jeans inside out

2. Hand wash in cold water or use gentle machine cycle

3. Use mild detergent

4. Air dry (no dryer)

Tips

• Spot clean when possible

• Avoid overwashing to preserve fades and fabric life

Understanding the Fade Patterns

Common Types of Fades:

• Whiskers: Fades around thighs and crotch

• Honeycombs: Back-of-knee crease marks

• Stacks: Ankle fade lines from long inseams

• Train Tracks: Faded edges along outseams

Each mark tells your story, not the factory’s.

Selvedge vs Raw Denim

They’re not the same:

• Raw Denim = Unwashed

• Selvedge Denim = Self-finished edges, often woven on vintage looms

You can have raw non-selvedge, selvedge that’s been pre-washed, or the top-tier: raw selvedge denim.

How It’s Made: The Indigo Dyeing Process

Raw denim is rope-dyed using indigo. Only the surface is colored, so the inner fiber stays white. That’s why it fades so dramatically with wear. Some brands use natural indigo, others use synthetic—both have deep cultural roots.

Top Raw Denim Brands to Know

1. A.P.C. (France): Clean, minimal, timeless

2. Nudie Jeans (Sweden): Organic, sustainable

3. 3sixteen (USA): Modern fit, traditional craft

4. Iron Heart (Japan): Heavyweight legends

5. Levi’s Vintage Clothing (USA): Iconic heritage pieces

How to Style Raw Denim

Casual

White tee + sneakers = classic contrast

Smart-Casual

Button-down shirt, loafers, raw denim—perfect balance

Layered

Try it under a trench coat or oversized bomber

Raw Denim & Slow Fashion

Raw denim aligns with conscious consumption:

• No distressing = less water, fewer chemicals

• Encourages long-term wear

• Supports repair and reuse culture

Wearing raw denim means embracing patience, process, and personal identity.

Raw Denim Myths, Debunked

• "It's uncomfortable." Only at first. Break-in leads to personalized comfort.

• "You should never wash it." Not true. Just wash less, and smart.

• "It’s just for denimheads." It's now more inclusive, versatile, and relevant than ever.

Summary Table

Final Thought

Raw denim isn’t just about jeans — it’s about owning a fabric that evolves with you. Every fold and fade is a record of your motion, values, and style.

For questions, sizing help, or Boring Monday’s own raw denim drops, contact us here.