Trading in the winter blues

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Naked and Famous

Japanese denim (or Japanese anything, really) is perhaps the highest quality in the world. Every pair of Naked & Famous Denim jeans is made in Canada and uses the most unique denim fabrics imported from mills in Japan. As they stray away from implementing different washes, this denim house has fewer styles than other brands. But this is precisely what they do best: combining incredible fabric with modern fits to create jeans that are raw and simple. Eliminating different wash effects also takes away costs, leaving them at the lower end of the price range as far as high-end denim goes.

Stand-out quality: Their collections feature a multitude of selvedge denim fabrics and blended fabrics put together by varying twills and weave work that result in solid jeans with no BS. Pair one of the three men’s fits (skinny, slim and tapered) or four ladies’ styles (skinny, slim, boot-cut and trouser-cut) with a patterned top for a contrasting yet coolly balanced look.

Frame

Residing in relative anonymity until only a few years ago, Frame has now amassed a massive following. Founded in 2012 by four friends split between London and California, the denim brand merges a London-influenced style, cut, and fit with the quality manufacturing and heritage of Los Angeles. The designers at the helm of Frame strived to create the perfect pair of jeans – and you will likely find yours among their expansive collection.

Stand-out quality: Their denim is beautifully clean and subdued, and the jeans are structured in a way that provide a tailored look which could be dressed up or down. The fits and washes are understated but not plain, minimal yet luxurious – this will definitely be your go-to pair of jeans. For guys, pair them with either a t-shirt or a nice button-up, and ladies could rock either a tee or a flowy blouse for multiple looks that are all effortlessly put together.

Simon Miller

Simon Miller is another denim brand based on the principles of Japanese fabrics. The denim house combines high-quality Japanese denim with American construction to produce clean, vintage styles with modern fits. Exclusively made in the USA, Simon Miller’s collection has a laid-back American-west vibe combined with the natural ease of Los Angeles. Their jeans are effortlessly timeless and expertly crafted, all the while exuding a pleasant, lived-in aesthetic.

Stand-out quality: While they have many pairs of high-quality denim in modern fits, Simon Miller is notable for their unique vintage washes and relaxed fit (this signature fit makes this denim house a haven for men who complain about jeans being too tight and too uncomfortable). Their beautiful washes create a great pair of jeans embellished by the natural aspects of creased lines, frayed edges, and distressed patches. For an everyday look, pair some Simon Millers with a basic staple in your closet, like a simple white t-shirt.

rag & bone

One of my all-time favourite brands in denim and beyond, rag & bone continues to deliver with classically tailored products that meld casual sophistication with an edgy yet understated New York vibe. Their denim is beautifully cut and expertly crafted, making it a closet staple that you will turn to for any occasion.

Stand-out quality: rag & bone manages to put their signature spin on traditional styles of denim by enlisting expert tailoring. The result is jeans that cling to your legs with a softness that boasts equal measures of comfort and style. The washes are timeless, ranging from light stonewash to a rich indigo blend to a modern acid wash. In particular, ladies should check out their distressed denim (my favourite r&b style) and guys should take a look at one of the three classic fits.

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