February 20, 2013

Behind the Seams: Chimala Denim

Everyone has wardrobe investments. You know, those pieces that despite their slightly higher price tag we deem worth it because of their impeccable construction and timeless appeal. Since our heritage is rooted in denim, we consider great jeans entirely splurge-worthy. And the amazing pairs crafted by NYC-based denim brand Chimala® definitely qualify. We went behind the seams with Noriko Machada, Chimala’s head designer.

Check out how Chimala’s head designer, Noriko Machada, effortlessly rocks double denim.

What makes Chimala denim different from other brands?

I closely follow vintage designs, styles and details and use only authentic selvedge denim, which is rare I think, especially for a women’s brand.

What makes some denim pieces more expensive than others?

The denim used in my jeans is selvedge denim that is woven on pre-war vintage shuttle looms in a traditional way. Plus, there are a lot of processes our highly skilled artisans do by hand when washing and distressing.

Do you have any tips for how to keep jeans from fading and/or stretching out?

The best thing is not to wash them! But since you need to wash your denim sometimes to get rid of sweat and dust or dirt, you should always turn your jeans inside out, wash in cold water and use only a small amount of detergent if needed to prevent damaging the material. Hang dry in the shade; never tumble dry or dry clean. If the denim is not too dirty or if you want to bring the shape back from stretching, you can just give it a quick rinse and hang dry.

How do you like to wear denim?

I love denim on denim and mixing beat-up jeans with something more luxurious or feminine.

Do you have a favorite place to shop?

Definitely the Brooklyn Flea.

When you’re not wearing denim, you’re in…

Chinos, men’s trousers or military pants.

A Chimala look we love. Shop it here.

What Chimala pieces are you most excited about this season?

Chino shorts, denim shorts, our Camo Jacket and our Denim Ankle Pants.

Where do you find inspiration for your designs?

From actual vintage pieces or photo books of vintage clothes.

chimala jeans denim labels we love

17 notes

November 6, 2012

4 Denim Blogs We Love

As you probably already know, we’re serious denim lovers. From rich washes and colors to small-batch collections, we’ve got it all. But that doesn’t mean we stop searching high and low for exciting inspiration. And on that note, we thought we’d let you in on our secret little list of the denim blogs we love:

1. Denim Therapy

2. Eat, Sleep, Denim

3. Denimology

4. Blue Gold Blues

madewell denim jeans

42 notes

July 20, 2012