Selvedge Denim: Jeans That Have the Edge – Literally

Image 1 of 11

Selvedge Denim

Originally created for miners, jeans have no competition as the top iconic trouser. Enthusiasts are keen on “selvedge” denim right now, selvedge being the stitched edge of the original fabric roll that prevents fraying, and which appears in details on the jeans, such as inside the leg. They used to be the norm way back when, but, without going into excessive detail about different types of looms, they fell out of fashion as companies moved towards cheaper methods of production.

Selvedge has made a welcome return, especially now everyone and their hipster dad is turning up the bottom of jeans, and the eagle eyed can spot whether the seam is stitched down – making it selvedge – or not (like us, we’re sure you’ll start to notice this from now on). But don’t think that selvedge denim will necessarily break the bank. In fact, if you’re quick, you can buy our pick from River Island’s range on sale for £25 (it was £60). Swedish brand Cheap Monday also stay true to their name offering a pair for £55.

Browse the gallery for all our picks, which include established jeans brands like Levis and G-Star, as well as labels from the Japanese denim scene such as Edwin and Mastercraft Union. Alternatively, keep scrolling down.