Ultimate Guide to Buying Men’s Jeans Online - Part 2

Shopping for jeans online is not just about finding the right fit but the wash and fabric make just as much difference to how your denim looks, feels, and ages over time. Now that you know how to choose the right fit (Missed it? Catch up with Ultimate Guide to Buying Men’s Jeans Online - Part 1), it is time to talk about everything you need to know about denim finishes, raw vs. washed styles, and why selvedge jeans are considered the gold standard for premium denim.

Whether you are upgrading your wardrobe or buying your very first pair, this two-part guide will help you shop smarter. Read on to understand how denim treatments like raw, washed, and selvedge will make you a smarter shopper, and help you build a denim collection you will love wearing. Let us dive in.

1. Raw Denim - The Choice of Purists: Raw denim, also referred to as dry denim is denim in its purest form. It has not been pre-washed or treated, meaning it is stiffer, darker, and will mould perfectly to your body over time.

Why Choose Raw?
•    It ages beautifully, developing unique fades and creases personal to your lifestyle over time.
•    It feels more substantial and authentic compared to heavily treated jeans.

Raw denim jeans may feel a little stiff at first, but give it a few weeks, and you will have a custom-fit pair of jeans that no one else can replicate.

2. Washed Denim - Soft and Ready to Wear: Most jeans you buy are washed denim. These have gone through processes like stone-washing, enzyme washing, or sandblasting to soften the fabric and achieve a lived-in look.

Different Levels of Wash Include:
•    Light Wash: Pale blue or almost white jeans - great for spring and summer.
•    Medium Wash: Classic blue, perfect for everyday wear.
•    Dark Wash: Deep, rich indigo - excellent for smarter casual looks.

If you want jeans that feel broken in from day one, washed denim is the way to go. Sugarcane Jeans stocks a wide variety of washes to match every style.

3. Selvedge Denim - Premium Quality, Timeless Style: Selvedge denim (or "self-edge") refers to the way the fabric is woven on traditional shuttle looms that create a tightly bound edge to prevent fraying. You can usually spot selvedge jeans by the distinctive stripe along the inner seams (often red, green, or white). The best way to wear your selvedge denim jeans is to cuff them slightly to show off the signature edge.

Why Invest in Selvedge Denim Jeans?
•    It is denser, stronger, and usually made from high-quality cotton.
•    Selvedge jeans last longer and age more beautifully.
•    They often come in raw form, combining premium fabric with authentic fading over time.

So, to choose which denim jeans are right for you, based on fit as discussed in part 1 of this guide. You also need to decide how much break-in time you prefer by picking washed or raw denim jeans. Furthermore, you must know that lighter washes are better suited for casual outfits and dark washes for smarter ones. Next up you can choose whether will go with 100% cotton or a blend that offers more comfort. 

Now you are fully informed and ready to shop for denim jeans like a pro. Browse through the full denim collection at the official Sugarcane Jeans online store and find the jeans that fit your lifestyle.