Raw & Selvedge Denim

Raw and selvedge denim, unwashed or minimally washed so it fades with your own wear. Shop Dolce & Gabbana, MM6 Maison Margiela and LOEWE.

8 styles

Jeans

2 styles

Jackets

3 styles

Shorts

3 styles
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What raw denim and selvedge denim are

Raw denim, also called dry denim, has not been washed after dyeing. It starts stiff and deep indigo, then softens and fades to match how you move: creases behind the knee, wear at the pockets, lighter thighs. Selvedge denim is woven on narrow shuttle looms, which leave a finished edge on the fabric. You can see it as a clean, often colored line on the outseam when the hem is turned up.

Raw denim can shrink and stretch. Unsanforized fabric shrinks noticeably on the first wash, while sanforized fabric shrinks little. Rigid raw jeans also stretch at the waist with wear, so many people buy them snug. Check the women's size chart or men's size chart and the product description.

For a similar deep color with a softer start, see dark wash jeans. For a classic cut to wear raw, see straight-leg jeans.

Questions, answered

What is raw denim?

Raw denim is denim that has not been washed after dyeing. It starts stiff and deep indigo, then softens and fades in a pattern unique to the wearer. Many owners wait several months before the first wash to set the fades.

What is selvedge denim?

Selvedge denim is woven on narrow shuttle looms that produce a finished edge, so the fabric does not fray. The edge is used on the outseam of jeans and shows as a clean line when the hem is cuffed. It is often, but not always, raw.

Does raw denim shrink?

Unsanforized raw denim can shrink by several percent on the first wash, mainly in length. Sanforized raw denim has been pre-shrunk and changes little. Check the product description, and soak or wash cold the first time to limit shrinkage.