The Everyday Jeans You Can’t Live Without

I’m probably the proud owner of 7-8 pairs of dark blue jeans (indigo, to be exact) in various cuts and styles. Call it passion, obsession, or - let’s be real - an addiction to raw denim.

There’s something mesmerizing about watching my jeans naturally fade from that rich indigo to a lighter shade, yet I’m always on the hunt for that perfect pair to preserve that deep blue before the ones I’m wearing even have a chance to fade 😆. It’s a constant cycle. That’s why I end up with so many pairs of dark blue jeans that look strikingly similar.

Dark blue jeans are the unsung heroes of the wardrobe. They work for any occasion, in any weather. Sure, chinos and corduroy pants are great options, but let’s face it - they don’t have the same all-season appeal as dark blue jeans. If you’ve never fully embraced their versatility, I’m about to change that perspective for you 🤓.

With dark blue jeans, you can effortlessly dress up or down. I often compare them to navy trousers - clean, sleek, and super easy to pair with almost any blazer. Whether you’re rocking loafers or sneakers, they’ll always complete the look. Forget about the "trouser" label - indigo denim has earned its legendary status in casual style and works with just about anything.

To keep things versatile, stick with plain, unembellished dark blue jeans - nothing too flashy, no distressing or rips, just a classic pair of five-pocket jeans.

Now, let’s talk about style and fit. I’m not going to go into the whole flared, overly tight, or ultra-wide jeans thing because that’s not what we’re after here. We're focused on versatility and ease of wear, so slim, straight, or a mix of both (slim straight) are your go-to options. A comfortable, moderate fit is the key to movement and style.

But here's the thing: not every “Slim” or “Straight” jean will fit the same. It’s all about body shape and proportions. For example, someone with larger thighs might find a Regular fit actually fits more like Slim jeans on them. And don’t forget - when it comes to jeans, you can always try a different size to find that perfect fit!

Now, the age-old debate: should jeans stretch?

Personally, I’m not a fan of stretch denim. I like my jeans pure and natural. But, I’ll admit, I do have 2-3 pairs with a little stretch, and they are comfy as hell. The most common stretch fabric is Elastane, and the ideal blend should be 99% cotton and 1% Elastane, or maybe 98%/2%, or 97%/3%. Anything more and you lose the rugged authenticity that denim is known for.

When it comes to washing your dark denim, remember this: less is more. Particularly with raw denim, you want to preserve that deep blue for as long as possible.

If you’re looking to add some quality dark blue jeans to your collection, here are a few solid recommendations. For quality and price, Uniqlo takes the crown, followed by Levi’s 531, which offers a great balance of refinement and durability. If you’re into raw denim, Unbranded is perfect for experimentation, and the A.P.C. Petit New Standard is an absolute winner for both formal and casual looks. Got a favorite brand of your own? Let me know!

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