Dappered Classics: The Denim Wash Spectrum and Guide

The Denim Wash Spectrum and Guide

Originally published 4/19/2010

One thing the retail world doesn’t lack is choices when it comes to buying a pair of jeans.  First, get yourself acquainted with the 10 Commandments of Wearing Denim.  That’s a good list to get familiar with.  And next, take a look at the Denim Spectrum.  From the purest eye searing white, to the deepest darkest black, you can get blue jeans in every color.  Including blue.  What shades to wear when & where are as follows.
(Got any disagreements?  Leave them in the comments section at the end of the post)

White Jeans |  Land’s End Canvas Heritage Straight Fit Jean – $49.50

So... why didn't you buy Chinos again?

Where you can wear them: Spring and summer outdoor parties, to a club, lunch with Carson Kressley
But should you wear them: If you want to wear white pants, why not white chinos instead?
.

Light Blue Jeans  |   Banana Republic Faded Wash Jean – $63.00

Dad, Daddy, Father, Pops, Mr. President...

Where you can wear them:  PTA Meetings, Home Depot, to throw out the First pitch at the All Star Game
But should you wear them:  No.  That includes you Chuck Norris.  COME AND GET SOME.
.

Medium Blue Jeans |  DKNY Soho Jean – 59.50

A standard go-to. Still has some fading in it.

Where you can wear them:  Everywhere except formal situations.  Is it summer?  Roll up the cuffs and go sockless.
But should you wear them:  Yes.  Absolutely.
.

Dark Blue Jeans  |  Levi’s 501 Rigid Rinse – $44.99

Should be a foundation of every guy's wardrobe.

Where you can wear them:  Just about anywhere.  Even work.  Wear them with everything from a t-shirt & sneakers to a blazer, fitted dress shirt, & knit tie.  Add dress boots and you’ve got a great Friday/Saturday night look.
But should you wear them:  Yes.  Unless it’s noon and 95 degrees.
.

Black Jeans | Express Slim Straight Zach Jean – $29.99

There's a fine line between tough and "where's my CAT'S t-shirt*?"

Where you can wear them: Rock Concerts (if you’re performing),  High School Plays (if you’re moving scenery), Hell’s Angels meetings.
But should you wear them: If you ride a Harley or play in Metallica then go ahead.  Otherwise… it’s a risk.
.

*If you must have a CAST t-shirt, here it is.  Weirdo.

Joe

Recent Posts

1 Sale, 5 Outfits: Spier & Mackay Anniversary Sale

Core line suits. Dress Shoes. Black Tie. Casual stuff. Giving Spier's Anniversary sale the 5…

13 hours ago

Chinos, Chukkas, Polo: Budget Bond – Splurge, but not luxury brands

Spending a bit more, but not nearly "I got the Mi6 credit card" levels.

18 hours ago

Chinos, Chukkas, Polo: Budget Bond – CHEAP

007? More like $0.07. Not that cheap, but the focus is firmly fixed on affordability.…

2 days ago

Monday Men’s Sales Tripod – J. Crew Extra 60% off Final Sale, Spier Shoes Sale, & More

There's a pretty solid stunner of a stacking (Italian made) suit sale at Brooks Brothers.

2 days ago

1 Sale, 5 Outfits: Banana Republic 30% off

Five style scenarios mined from BR's quiet 30% off code.

4 days ago

Steal Alert: Banana Republic 30% off Full Price Secret Sale

Tropical wool suits. Core temp pants and shorts. It's quiet and it's quick. Not promoted…

5 days ago