Welcome to our ultimate guide on the types of jeans fabric! Whether you’re a fashion enthusiast, designer, or simply someone looking for the best denim fabric for jeans, this guide will give you insights into every major type of denim fabric on the market. Wholesale Shopping, a leading wholesale supplier in the UK, brings this detailed overview to help buyers and fashion lovers understand the variety and potential of denim fabrics used in jeans. Let's dive into the essential types, specifications, and qualities of these popular fabrics.
1. Cotton Denim Fabric: It is One of the Best Types of Jeans Fabric
When it comes to the question, “What type of fabric is used in jeans?”, the answer is often cotton denim fabric. This fabric is iconic in the world of jeans, known for its blend of strength, comfort, and breath-ability. Crafted from 100% cotton, traditional denim has a sturdy, rugged feel that withstands daily wear, yet softens over time, creating a custom fit for every wearer. It’s this evolving comfort and durability that make cotton denim a top choice for jeans worldwide.
One of the most appealing qualities of cotton denim is its breath-ability, which keeps jeans comfortable across seasons. Cotton denim is highly absorbent, allowing it to take on rich, lasting dyes. This means jeans made from cotton can come in a variety of deep, vibrant shades that fade gracefully with wear, adding to their charm and individuality.
For those who love the genuine feel of traditional jeans, 100% cotton denim offers an authentic experience, a fabric that ages beautifully and gains character over time. Today, though many jeans incorporate a hint of stretch materials like elastane or spandex, pure cotton denim remains the preferred choice for a classic look and long-lasting durability. When you choose jeans made from cotton denim, you're investing in a fabric that’s built to last and keeps comfort at the forefront.
2. Stretch Denim: Blending Comfort with Flexibility
Stretch denim revolutionised jeans by combining the durability of cotton with the flexibility of elastane, creating the perfect fabric for those who prioritise comfort. This innovative blend provides a close fit without sacrificing mobility, allowing jeans to move with you. Unlike traditional denim, stretch denim offers a touch of elasticity, making it ideal for styles that hug the body, such as skinny and slim-fit jeans.
The added flexibility makes stretch denim a top choice for active lifestyles and all-day wear. It adapts to body shape and movement, maintaining comfort whether you're seated, walking, or on the go. This fabric has become a favourite for its ability to retain shape, prevent sagging, and offer lasting comfort. With its blend of form and function, stretch denim truly represents the best fabric for jeans that look great and feel even better.
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3. Raw Denim (Unwashed Denim): Crafting a Unique Look Over Time
Raw denim, prizes by denim enthusiasts, is untreated and unwashed, starting as a deep, rich blue that gradually transforms. Initially stiff, this authentic fabric softens with wear, adapting to the body and creating natural fades and creases unique to each wearer. Unlike Pre-washed jeans, raw denim allows you to develop a one-of-a-kind look that reflects your lifestyle, showing subtle fades in areas of high wear. It’s a true commitment to individuality, ideal for those who appreciate denim that ages beautifully and becomes a personalised statement piece over time.
4. Selvage Denim: Premium Quality with Finished Edges
Selvage denim is the hallmark of premium quality, celebrated for its tight weave and distinct finished edges that prevent fraying. Produced on traditional shuttle looms, this fabric has a clean, durable edge, often with a unique coloured thread along the seam—a signature of craftsmanship. The dense weave not only makes selvage denim highly durable but also gives it a slightly heavier feel, ideal for those who appreciate a structured, long-lasting jean. Favoured in high-end jeans, selvage denim stands out for its refined look, exceptional durability, and timeless appeal in denim fashion.
5. Acid Wash Denim: Iconic Vintage Style with Bold Contrast
Acid-wash denim brings a striking, retro vibe to any wardrobe with its signature light and dark contrasts. Created through a unique chemical process that removes the top layer of indigo, acid-wash jeans showcase a bold, marbled effect that gives them their iconic look. Popularised in the '80s, this distinctive denim style remains a staple for vintage-inspired fashion, adding personality and edge to classic jean designs. Perfect for those who love a standout piece, acid-wash denim combines the rugged feel of traditional jeans with an unmistakably bold aesthetic.
6. Stonewashed Denim: The Classic, Soft Aesthetic
Stonewashed denim is beloved for its soft, worn-in feel that combines comfort with a timeless look. Through a unique washing process involving stones, this denim achieves a naturally faded, slightly distressed appearance, making it feel like a favourite pair of jeans from the very first wear. The softened texture enhances comfort, making stonewashed denim one of the top choices for everyday, relaxed styles. Ideal for those who prioritise both comfort and style, stonewashed jeans offer a laid-back aesthetic that’s as versatile as it is classic.
7. Crushed Denim: Textured and Bold
Crushed denim stands out with its unique, intentionally wrinkled texture, adding a bold and edgy flair to any outfit. Achieved through a special finishing process, this fabric keeps its creased look, giving jeans a lived-in, avant-garde style. Perfect for those seeking a statement piece, crushed denim provides a modern, fashion-forward aesthetic that’s both trendy and unconventional. Ideal for street-wear and high-fashion looks, crushed denim is all about texture, making it a go-to choice for anyone looking to add a touch of daring style to their denim collection.
8. Coloured Denim: Expanding Beyond Classic Blue
Coloured denim brings a refreshing twist to traditional jeans, offering a wide range of hues beyond classic blue. From deep blacks and versatile greys to soft pastels and bold tones, coloured denim allows for diverse styling options that suit any occasion or mood. This vibrant variety adds depth to any wardrobe, making it easy to experiment with different looks and step outside the typical denim palette. Ideal for fashion-forward individuals, coloured denim creates opportunities for unique expression, whether you’re going for a chic, understated look or a bold, standout style.
9. Poly Denim: Durability and Performance
Poly denim combines the natural feel of cotton with the resilience of polyester, creating a fabric that’s both durable and practical. This blend offers enhanced strength, reduced shrinkage, and greater resistance to wear and tear, making it ideal for active or rugged use. Poly denim retains its shape over time and is less prone to wrinkling, ensuring jeans look fresh and polished even after repeated wear. For those who need jeans that can keep up with a busy lifestyle, poly denim is a top choice, delivering long-lasting performance without compromising on comfort.
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10. Slub Denim: Character with a Textured Finish
Slub denim offers unique, uneven textures thanks to variations in weaving, popular for artisan and vintage-inspired jeans.
Types of Denim Colours and Washes
One of the most appealing aspects of denim is its ability to take on various washes and colours. Here’s a look at some of the types of denim colours you can choose from to create versatile and modern looks.
11. Slub Denim: Character with a Textured Finish
Slub denim stands out with its unique, irregular texture, created through a specialised weaving technique that introduces subtle variations in the fabric. These intentional imperfections give slub denim a rich, textured look that’s both artisan and visually appealing. Often used in vintage-inspired or handcrafted jeans, slub denim exudes character and individuality, with a surface that appears slightly uneven and organic. This fabric is ideal for those who appreciate jeans with a bit of personality, offering a distinct, textured finish that adds depth and charm to any denim collection.
12. Black Denim: Sleek Sophistication for Every Wardrobe
Black denim offers a stylish and modern alternative to traditional blue jeans, adding a touch of sophistication to any outfit. With its deep, inky shade, black denim is incredibly versatile, seamlessly transitioning from casual day-wear to polished evening looks. Available in various washes, from jet black to faded charcoal, it allows for a fresh, dynamic appearance that remains sharp and on-trend. Perfect for creating both edgy and refined styles, black denim is a must-have for anyone seeking a timeless yet bold addition to their wardrobe.
What is Soft Jean Material Called? Exploring Comfortable Denim Choices
For those who prioritise comfort, several fabrics offer a softer feel right from the start.
13. Tencel Denim
What is Tencel Fabric? Tencel denim, crafted from sustainably sourced eucalyptus wood pulp, combines Eco-conscious production with luxurious comfort. Known for its breathable and ultra-soft feel, Tencel denim is a lightweight, gentle option that’s perfect for warm weather and sensitive skin. This fabric’s smooth texture offers all the durability of traditional denim while reducing environmental impact, making it ideal for those who want style with a conscience. Offering a modern take on jeans, Tencel denim brings unmatched comfort and sustainability, proving that fashion-forward choices can also be Eco-friendly.
14. Brushed Denim
Brushed denim is crafted for warmth and cosiness, featuring a unique brushing technique that creates a velvety, gentle texture. This process raises the fibres, giving the fabric a soft, almost fleece-like feel, ideal for colder seasons. Unlike traditional denim, brushed denim offers extra warmth without sacrificing style, making it a go-to choice for those seeking comfort during chilly days. With its plush finish and insulating qualities, brushed denim combines the rugged appeal of jeans with the softness needed for cold-weather wear, bringing warmth and style together seamlessly.
Are There Different Types of Denim? A Breakdown of Speciality Fabrics
15. Bull Denim
Bull denim is known for its strength and resilience, making it a top choice for work-wear jeans and heavy-duty apparel. Crafted with a dense, sturdy weave, this fabric can withstand rigorous daily wear, handling tough environments without compromising on durability. Unlike typical denim, bull denim is tightly woven and often dyed in rich colours, enhancing its versatility while retaining a rugged, no-nonsense look. Ideal for those who need jeans built to last, bull denim provides a practical, long-lasting solution, combining toughness with the comfort of classic cotton.
16. Ecru Denim
Ecru denim offers a minimalist, raw aesthetic with its unbleached and undyed, natural off-white hue. This understated fabric preserves the original colour of cotton, giving it a clean, earthy look that stands out from traditional blue and black denim. Favoured by those who appreciate an unrefined, organic style, ecru denim exudes simplicity and authenticity. Its natural tone makes it versatile for both casual and elevated looks, offering a fresh alternative for denim lovers who seek something different yet timeless.
17. Organic Denim
Organic denim is crafted without synthetic pesticides or harmful chemicals, making it a sustainable choice for environmentally-minded consumers. Produced with Eco-friendly Fabric farming practices, this denim reduces the impact on soil, water, and ecosystems, appealing to those who prioritise conscious fashion choices. Not only is organic denim kinder to the planet, but it also maintains the durability and comfort denim is known for. For those seeking a greener wardrobe without sacrificing quality, organic denim offers a guilt-free, stylish option that aligns with sustainable values.
Denim Fabric Specifications and Weaving Techniques
18. Right-Hand Twill Denim
Right-hand twill denim is known for its distinctive diagonal lines that slant to the right, creating a subtle yet stylish texture. This traditional weaving technique gives the fabric a slightly tighter feel, enhancing its durability and classic appeal. Often associated with heritage denim, right-hand twill ages beautifully, developing unique fades and character with wear. Favoured by denim enthusiasts, it offers a structured fit that combines style with strength, making right-hand twill denim a timeless choice for those who appreciate authenticity in their jeans.
19. Left-Hand Twill Denim
Left-hand twill denim is crafted with diagonal lines that slant to the left, giving it a softer, smoother feel compared to traditional right-hand twill. This unique weave results in a gentle texture that’s perfect for those who prioritise comfort in their jeans. As it wears, left-hand twill denim develops a distinct, slightly more relaxed fade, making it a popular choice for casual, easygoing styles. Ideal for anyone seeking comfortable jeans fabric with a refined, understated texture, left-hand twill denim provides a balance of style and softness.
20. Broken Twill Denim
Broken twill denim features a unique zigzag weave that disrupts the traditional diagonal pattern found in other denim types. This distinctive design not only adds visual interest but also prevents the natural twisting that can occur in jeans over time, maintaining the garment’s shape and comfort. With its enhanced durability, Broken Twill is a popular choice for those seeking long-lasting, high-quality jeans. The combination of stability and style makes broken twill denim a practical yet stylish option that stands up to regular wear without losing its form.
Denim Fabric by the Metre: Buying Guide for DIY Designers
Buying denim fabric by the metre allows designers to choose from various types to create custom jeans or other denim products. Whether purchasing cotton denim fabric or stretch denim by the metre, choosing high-quality suppliers like Wholesale Shopping ensures quality and cost-effectiveness.
21. Lightweight Denim
Lightweight denim is perfect for those looking for jeans that offer comfort without the bulk, especially in warmer climates. Typically weighing less than traditional denim, this fabric is breathable and soft, making it ideal for summer jeans or relaxed, casual wear. Lightweight denim provides the classic look of denim without the heavy feel, allowing for greater freedom of movement and all-day comfort. For anyone seeking a laid-back, airy option, lightweight denim is the go-to choice for a style that doesn’t compromise on comfort.
22. Heavyweight Denim
Heavyweight denim is the epitome of rugged durability, making it a staple for traditional jeans and work-wear. Typically weighing over 12 ounces per yard, this robust fabric is built to withstand heavy use, offering long-lasting wear that softens gradually over time. Ideal for jeans that need to endure demanding conditions, heavyweight denim provides a structured feel and classic look that ages beautifully. For those who value resilience and strength in their jeans, heavyweight denim is the trusted choice for lasting quality and timeless style.
23. Ring-spun Denim
Ring-spun denim is crafted from twisted cotton fibres, resulting in a fabric that is both softer and stronger than standard denim. This unique spinning process gives ring-spun denim a natural texture with subtle variations, enhancing its comfort and durability. Known for its soft touch and resilience, ring-spun denim offers a premium feel that only improves with wear, making it one of the most comfortable jeans fabrics available. For those who appreciate quality and long-lasting comfort, ring-spun denim is a perfect choice, blending luxury with durability.
Choosing the Best Fabric for Jeans
With so many options, selecting the best fabric for jeans depends on intended use, climate, and style preferences.
24. Vintage Denim
Vintage denim captures the essence of a bygone era, offering a nostalgic, worn-in look that exudes character. Through special processing techniques, this denim is given an aged appearance, with subtle fades and distressing that make it look naturally broken in. This fabric brings a sense of authenticity and history, perfect for those who appreciate a classic, laid-back style. Ideal for creating outfits with a retro vibe, vintage denim provides a timeless aesthetic that never goes out of fashion, embodying the charm and resilience of well-loved jeans.
25. Corded Denim
Corded denim, also known as corded denim, brings a unique style to the world of jeans with its distinct vertical ridges reminiscent of corduroy. This textured pattern not only adds visual interest but also provides a different tactile experience, giving jeans a slightly more structured and refined look. Perfect for those seeking a departure from traditional smooth denim, corded denim combines the durability of denim with the eye-catching appeal of corduroy, making it a stylish choice for modern and vintage-inspired outfits alike.
26. Nylon Denim
Nylon denim is designed for maximum strength and resilience, making it an ideal choice for rugged activities and outdoor adventures. By incorporating nylon fibres, this denim becomes highly durable and resistant to wear and tear, offering extra protection against abrasion compared to traditional denim. This added toughness doesn’t sacrifice comfort, as nylon denim maintains a flexible, comfortable feel, perfect for those with an active lifestyle. For jeans that can withstand intense use while keeping you comfortable, nylon denim is a reliable, performance-driven option.
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Speciality Denim Fabric Types
27. Jacquard Denim
Jacquard denim stands out with its intricate, woven designs that bring a touch of sophistication and flair to traditional jeans. Crafted using specialised weaving techniques, jacquard denim incorporates detailed patterns directly into the fabric, offering unique textures and motifs that add depth and character. This fabric is perfect for designers and fashion enthusiasts seeking jeans with an artistic edge, as it allows for creativity in both subtle and bold designs. For those who want jeans that double as a statement piece, jacquard denim provides a stylish, eye-catching option that breaks away from the ordinary.
28. Waxed Denim
Waxed denim offers both style and functionality with its distinctive, water-resistant finish. Coated with a thin layer of wax, this denim repels moisture, making it an excellent choice for wet or unpredictable weather. The waxed finish not only adds practical durability but also creates a slightly glossy, rugged look that stands out from traditional denim. Ideal for those who want jeans that can handle the elements while adding an edgy touch to their wardrobe, waxed denim combines practicality with fashion-forward appeal.
29. Coated Denim
Coated denim transforms classic jeans with a sleek, glossy finish, giving them a leather-like appearance that’s perfect for making a bold fashion statement. This special coating adds texture and shine, creating a striking, edgy aesthetic that’s popular in contemporary, high-fashion styles. Ideal for those who love to experiment with their wardrobe, coated denim offers a unique alternative to traditional denim, blending the comfort of jeans with the chic, polished look of leather. For a standout, modern look, coated denim is the go-to choice.
30. Recycled Denim
Recycled denim is an Eco-friendly option that breathes new life into old denim products, transforming them into fresh, usable fabric. By re-purposing discarded jeans and denim scraps, this fabric significantly reduces waste and promotes a more sustainable fashion industry. Recycled denim retains the durability and comfort of traditional denim while offering a unique story behind each piece. Ideal for environmentally-conscious consumers, recycled denim allows you to enjoy high-quality jeans while supporting a circular economy and reducing your environmental footprint. It’s denim with a purpose—fashion that looks good and does good.
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Conclusion: Finding the Right Types of Jeans Fabric
Exploring the diverse types of jeans fabric allows buyers to choose materials that meet their style and functional needs. Wholesale Shopping offers a variety of denim fabrics by the metre, ideal for retailers or DIY enthusiasts. From cotton denim fabric to the latest sustainable denim options, Wholesale Shopping provides access to high-quality denim fabrics that cater to evolving fashion trends and consumer preferences.
