DenimHunt

Designers We Love: Robin's Jeans

If you haven't seen Robin's Jeans yet, you will. The winged logo placed conspicuously across the yoke make them more recognizable than most premium denim brands. The Rock and Roll inspiration is evident in aged denim that comes in multiple washes, heavy with high-end embellishments such as Swarovski crystals. Robin Chretien, the founder of Robin's Jeans and a native of France, has been working with denim since the age of 16. His resume includes stints at Blue Cult as designer and head of product development. He also helped launched Hudson jeans and is credited with being the brains behind what would become a celebrity favorite. In 2005, Chretien launched his own label and set out to create a line that would be sexy and flattering on any body type. According to Chretien, “I’m always happy to hear that people love the jeans I make, but it always comes down to the fit. It doesn’t matter how much you embellish a pair of jeans...". With a unique approach to denim design and a philosophy like that, Robin's Jeans are sure to be a standout among the competition. Prices range from $145-$370. Look for them in boutiques and online retailers.

Desert Blue Premium Jeans

At the risk of sounding trite, what do Hilary Duff, Fergie, and dare I say it Lindsay Lohan, along with a host of other celebrities, have in common? Desert Blue Premium Jeans. Inspired by the American West, Desert Blue goes beyond your typical eco-friendly denim brand by using 100% organic cotton that has not been washed with harmful dyes or chemicals. There is a look and style for everyone ranging from skinnies, bootcuts and trousers in various washes and overdyes. Unlike most premium brands that are recognizable by the pocket embroidery, Desert Blue varies the pocket details. Take note of the Element Jeans. In four different silhouettes, each pair has a tribal-style, laser-etched pocket detail that represents one of the four elements of antiquity; earth, wind, fire and water.  They are also credited with being the creator of the denim legging, an ubersexy, ultra-tight denim pant that comes in a variety of colors and is a celebrity favorite.  Most importantly Desert Blue remains true to its roots by raising awareness of issues that concern our environment. Look for them in select stores and online retailers.

Photos:SOURCE

DIY: Ksubi

We love anything DIY. What better way to march to the beat of your own drummer. Leave it to Ksubi to come up with something that allows us to channel our inner denim designer.

This is what you need:
-two pairs of jeans, one white, one black in similar styles
-white and primary color oil-based paint with a palette to mix
-flat, wide paintbrush
-x-acto knife
-needle and strong black thread

Step 1:
With the x-acto knife, cut both pairs of jeans along the side seams so that they are split into a front half and back half.

Step 2:
Mix the white and primary colors on the palette and use the brush to paint the desired look on the front half of the white jeans.

Step 3:
After they have dried, using the needle and thread, sew the painted front half to the black back half.

Tada! Custom jeans all your own. The best thing about this trick is that not only do you have a completely new, one-of-kind pair of jeans, but you can also make another pair of completely new, one-of-a-kind jeans with the leftover halves! I love it!

SOURCE

Butler Worn Out

A.P.C. has decided to forego the usual method of distressing jeans and have taken a more "natural" approach.  They have created a line called the "Butler Worn Out Series". Basically folks, instead of wasting precious time, hours, weeks and months of wearing your jeans to get that perfectly worn in look, the folks at A.P.C. have elected to pay someone to break in your jeans for you. Let me break it down a little further. When you purchase a pair of the "Butler Worn Out Series" you will own a pair of jeans actually worn by someone else first!  The initials of the person who broke them in will be inside the jeans. Buzzworthy...yes. Innovative...sure. Eco-friendly...quite possibly. Should you wear them...that's for you to decide.

GoldSpun Denim

We love when we discover new brands. GoldSpun uses premium Japanese denim to create a line that is technically innovative while paying homage to denim's utilitarian roots. The collection ranges from streamlined silhouettes to the rugged, functionality of its Mad Maxx inspired line. We really like the water-repellent treatment used on several styles, particularly an all white jacket and pants combo.

Paige + Ron

Ron Herman and LA-based denim brand Paige Premium Denim are joining forces for a new vintage inspired range of all-American denim. Together they chose Paige's signature Laurel Canyon jean – a classic, 5 pocket boot cut that has been updated in two new 70’s inspired washes.  Available this Memorial Day, Paige Denim, exclusively for Ron Herman, will be available at all Ron Herman locations in Southern California.

[deener]

One of our new favorite denim brands is [deener]. Designed & finished in Los Angeles, CA with
custom-designed hardware from Argentina, [deener] offers high style and quality in craftsmanship.
Ya-el Torabati, [deener] designer and creator, was born in Jerusalem and raised in New Orleans, so each design has a unique influence from her cultures. The line’s name is somewhat inspired by a miniature dachshund named, Willard also known as, deener. For this season, some of the best denim can be found from this fresh faced brand, like the lightweight swing jacket, jumper shorts and a sassy wide leg trouser.

Mulberry denim

We just got a hot tip from our friends at Denimology...the latest collection from Mulberry. Check out these hot pieces from one of our favorite British brands. The charmed denim Bayswater bag, based on one of their most popular leather styles, the loose jeans with a bow-tie waist and the jumpsuit in light blue denim. Mulberry is not only known for great fashion and handbags, but also collaborates with some of today's most influential up-and-coming artists of London. The Bond Street store is gearing up to combine a gallery space with extraordinary rotating exhibitions.  Mulberry

 

Issey Miyake

 

Check out these awesome jeans at Issey Miyake. Sometimes guys don't have as many fashion choices as women, but that doesn't seem to apply to denim. This unique pair features a 'skeletal' effect through bleaching. It may sound a little questionable at first, but the effect is very subtle.  The inspiration is hardly noticeable at first and the black denim keeps it sleek for the not-so-fashion-friendly guy who wants to tap into his coolness. IsseyMiyake

blessed denim

Denim is currently available in a rainbow of colors, so we wanted to advise our readers of a stand-out choice. Bishop of Seventh, which is known for precise tailoring and unique details, offers Sapphire blue in their Cashmere Twill style. This color is gorgeous! The jean isn't blended with cashmere, but incorporates a specially treated yarn to give it the ultra-smooth texture of your favorite sweater. We've been fans of this brand for awhile because of the variety of pocket designs throughout the line. Although the brand is based in LA, the husband and wife design team of Chachi Prasad and Karam Kim, met and fell in love in NYC. Their story is told through the collection...how sweet!
check out more here
www.bishopofseventh.com

Stella.

Along with many other collaborations she has on the burner, Stella McCartney is pairing up with Notify Jeans. The designer and the Paris based label are to create a co-branded denim collection.  The jeans are expected to be in stores this coming November and will retail somewhere between $375-$395.  A percentage of the profits from this denim collection will be donated to animal rights charities. Check out some of the expected colors, courtesy of DenimBlog.com

Marithé + François Girbaud

Marithé + François Girbaud is creating a new premium line, LegEnd. The French label is trying to move from classic pants with  five-pocket styling and redesigning with some of their coolest inventions from Girbaud's “Jeanovation.” These jeans are available in three to four treatments, come in two lengths and have metallic studs on the back pockets. The innovative label will also be launching a new luxury designer line and plans to expand retail operations worldwide.

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Schultz Jeans

Schultz, The British based jeans and underwear brand, are making men's jeans that are designed to be worn low and open at the fly to show off your underwear, which you can also by from them. They are so keen on helping young men expose themselves that they have developed an integrated strap which fits on the inside of the waistband so that you can actually wear these jeans with the fly completely open and they will still remain around the waist. Check out the cute little video for instruction...

Schultz

Zac Down Under

As the Zac Posen for Target collection is officially hitting stores today, we find ourselves wishing we were down under. Available only in Australia, there are two collections: Glamour and Tailored. We’ve been teased with pics of high-waisted pants and asymmetrical skirts, structured satin draped tops and cocktail dresses. The range will be priced from $49.99 to $299.99 (AUD) for a replica of a dress that actress Katherine Heigl wore to the Emmy Awards (only 50 dresses will be available). Although there is no denim in Zac’s collection, we still remain fans of his dedication to feminine tailoring. ZacForTarget  

Evisu Accessories

Evisu has released some accessories, that tap into their iconic denim, for their latest 2008 Spring season. The line includes these cool little Zippo lighters,  a denim helmet and denim plush bear, for the kid in you. Each item features the brand's raw denim with their signature gullwing logos. To check out more of the items, go to hypebeast.

Juliana Jabour for Uniqlo

We mentioned last month about the exciting choices for the Designer Invitation Project, at Uniqlo. Now we have a preview of Juliana Jabour's Spring collection, featuring some of the designs that will be available in the store.  The unique project, which highlights young designers for small collections to be featured in the Uniqlo line, will continue for their Spring line. For more from the line, check out: coutorture

Pur, couture denim?

We recently got a tour through the latest in the Pur Premium denim line...and instantly fell in love with the softest denim! Designed by Heather Yoon, with two decades of experience in the garment business
under her belt, she certainly understands what a lady wants in her jeans. Pur Premium Denim has less visual
detail than other premium lines. Yoon believes less is more, using the best denim from Italy and Spain without all the unnecessary details. Designing and manufacturing all of her pieces proudly in Los Angeles, the denim capital of the world, Pur brings denim that will flatter every woman’s figure. Check out the website to find out where you can get your own, www.purpremium.com.

Jeremy Loves Ksubi

Fresh off photographing Lindsey Lohan for the March issue of PAPER, Jeremy Scott has teamed up with Aussie label, Ksubi. Check out the checkerboard printed denim from the Jeremy Loves Ksubi line. The cut is a high-waisted, skinny leg with 2% stretch, like the original Ksubi denim. This playful look may be a bit eccentric for some Denim Lovers, but we think it is great inspiration for fresh denim designs.

Look of the Day

We love this look!
It is an image from the SS 2008 campaign for Lee Cooper denim, featuring the newest designs from Lou Doillon. This time around, the designer was inspired by The Artful Dodger, her favorite character from Oliver Twist. The deal with Lee Cooper will last for three years, so this is only the beginning of fun frocks from this Frenchy. To learn more, check out the great interview featuring Doillon, at Refinery29 .

Comme des Garcons & Levi's

Commes des Garcons does it again! Taking one step beyond the fabulous pop-up store that has been traveling the world...they have now introduced a collaboration with Levi's. As part of the Junya Watanabe MAN Collection, this black Cosmo Jean, has a branding print on the top half of the pant. Not yet sure if it is available in the current LA pop-up, but we will be sure to report back on where to find it.

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Siwy Denim

We just came across a great interview with Michelle Siwy, designer and founder of Siwy Denim. One of our faves since its launch in 2005, Siwy has proven to make our backsides beautiful! With its uniquely shaped back seam and top quality denim, this line continues to be stellar for the Spring 2008 season!
For a complete look at the interview: coutorture

Diesel Wall call!

Diesel Wall is back and calling for artists! This international art contest will place the winner's creation on a large urban canvas. Born out of the need to preserve city space from needless advertising, artists are encouraged to show their "unconstrained self expression." The walls are to be featured in Manchester, Zurich, New York and Barcelona and the submission dates vary throughout September.
For more information, check out the DieselCult.

DDC Lab Fall 2008

Last night at the LA Melrose Avenue location, DDC Lab previewed their Fall 2008 collection. The in-store party was hosted by designers Roberto Crivello and Savania Davies Keiller and debuted the latest in the technology that they have played with this season. Fabrics from DDC Lab can charge you mobile phone, block radiation or just simply make you the coolest kid on the block. Our choice to pair with denim- the men's Cork Blazer. Created from cork bonded to lycra, the fabric acts like a soft leather and can take wear n' tear like the best of them. The cork is sustainable and does not damage the tree when removed. The right kinda guy will pair it with DDC's indigo denim, complete with an ergonomic cut leg for perfect draping.

dVb Men's Denim

One of our favorite Beckhams announced the expansion of the dVb denim line. Victoria will now be including men's denim as part of the collection. The silhouettes promise to be baggy and comfortable for guys, rather than slimmer silhouettes...something she says is influenced by David...our other favorite. As the Creative Director, VB says that the jeans will be 'what David likes', the prototypes are practiced on him. The first men's denim will be a boot fit available in five washes, eventually the line will feature a straight leg and and vintage-wash Tshirts.

Whitley Kros - Fall 2008

Sunday kicked-off Mercedes Benz LA Fashion Week, so we headed down to Culver City for the first shows! Whitley Kros granted us with another fun and edgy collection full of 70s and 80s influence. The audience consisted of Andre Leon Talley, Vogue Editor at Large, making his first visit to LA Fashion Week and several celebrities, such as, Erika Christensen, Bijou Phillips and Juliette Lewis. Designers Marissa Ribisi and Sophia Coloma, infused bright colors into slouchy knits, jumpsuits and skinny pants. The accent of zebra-art across the front of pants was very cool! We also loved the use of plaid and tweed throughout their designs.

Triumvir Spring 08

The kids behind HighSnobiety.com are like that cool kid in class when they mention a new band and you nod your head and pretend you're a fan as well. Then you rush home and try to find out exactly what they were talking about. They were raving about the Spring 08 denim line from Triumvir, and we immediately had to learn more.

The collection hits shelves March 15, and while everyone's been raving about the fit, we're most impressed with the subtle, but unique detailing of colored rivets with a secret message: "***K Your Clique."

Check out their site for an online store (opening 3/15,) additional products, and a full listing of brick and mortar stores carrying Triumvir.

For more: Triumvir

Level 99 summer preview

Remember a bit ago when we gave you the heads up of the amazing new denim line, Level 99? Well, after raving about them to Sacramento Magazine, we thought we should give you a lil update.

Their summer collection 2008 hasn't hit shelves just yet, but we have a special sneak peek normally reserved only for editors. Our favorite pieces are the flattering high-waist short and the ultimate in summer chic: the sailor trouser in both white and indigo. We can't wait to add Parisian stripes and a pair of our friend, Phillip Lim's new sandals for the ultimate in warm-weather sophistication.

(Lest we forget; for the dudes, be sure to check out the men's collection!)

For more: Level99

Brand to Watch: Grey Ant

Known for pioneering the way with the high-waist jean, Grey Ant has quickly ascended the fashion ranks over the last few seasons since their founding in 1998. Now offering a full collection of not only denim, but  also elegantly draped dolman-sleeve sweaters, and slinky dresses, founder Grant Krajecki has established himself far beyond his beginnings traveling the US in his family's VW van.

Each collection is manufactured in Grant's homebase of Los Angeles, but luckily, you don't have to live in the city of angels to snag yourself a pair of Grey Ant jeans. Available at all the big wigs like Barneys New York, Bergdorf Goodman, and Fred Segal, in addition to shopbop.com, Grey Ant has come a long way from his Chicago roots.

Levi's does ProjRun

As you may have noticed on last week's Project Runway, Levi's is a huge presence in this season's competition. Of course, the challenge didn't end on the show. Up until February 6, you have your chance to redesign the classic 501s and trucker jacket that have made Levi's the most respected name in the denim industry for over 150 years. More right brain than left brain? There's a job for you as well. The winner will be chosen by votes cast on the site, www.levis.com/project501, with the top 20 being announced the week of Feb. 21 and the winner the week of Feb. 28.

Following the footsteps of their ProjRun competition, Levi's designers will give input and helpful criticisms on their blog throughout the competition.

In support of Project 501, keep your eyes peeled for a full-on guerrilla-style marketing campaign. Everything from napkins at your favorite bar to internet advertising in New York and Los Angeles's hottest design centers such as Parson's (Tim Gunn's old stomping grounds) and FIT.

Make it work!

Lee Cooper celebrates 100 years

2008 marks the 100th anniversary of British denim icon, Lee Cooper. With an official celebration on 8/8/08, the year promises to be full of new styles, new faces, and new parties. They're being top secret at the moment, but we'll keep you up to date as soon as we hear some news.

Fake Red Monkeys?

While we love RMC Red Monkeys for their limited edition denim designs and collaborations, we never thought they'd be joining the ranks of Seven New York and True Religion in the fight against copycats. Unfortunately, there has been such an influx of fake Red Monkeys (think plastic patches and bleached cotton) that the designer, Martin Ksohoh, has shared a checklist to ensure that collectors of the brand receive a one-of-a-kind piece to add to their denim collection and not a cheap knockoff.

1 REAL RMC JEANS Must be made in Hong Kong otherwise they are fakes
2 PROHOBIT LLC ARE NOT THE DISTRIBUTORS OR SUB AGENTS for RMC for USA.
3 "AKASARU" has NO connections with the real Martin Ksohoh of RMC or RED MONKEY COMPANY.
4 REAL RMC JEANS Must have leather patch, not pvc on waist band
5 REAL RMC JEANS Must have individual lazer cut serial numbers on the patch
6 REAL RMC JEANS Must be made in Hong Kong otherwise they are fakes
7 REAL RMC JEANS DOES NOT USE BLUE COLOUR LOGO ON THE LEATHER PATCH ON WAISTBAND.
8 REAL RMC JEANS HAS UNIT PRODUCTION LAZER SERIAL NUMBER
9 REAL RMC JEANS Selvedge must be red and green
10 REAL RMC DENIM FABRIC MUST BE MADE FROM NATURAL COLOUR COTTON-UNBLEACHED (inside has yellowish tint).
11 REAL RMC JEANS DO NOT USE THE WORD OR BRANDING (AKASURA) ANY WHERE ON THE JEANS, LABELS OR TAGS.
12 AMERICAN DISTRIBUTORS OR SUB DISTRIBUTORS ARE NOT "PROHIBIT LLC"
13 USA RETAILERS NOTE: PURCHASE INVOICES MUST BE ISSUED BY PREMIUM LINES LLC.

If you have ant queries or questions contact the owners 1001@1001original.com or rmcjapan@jupiter.ocn.ne.jp or sales@rmcjeans.co.uk

For more info on RMC Red Monkey click HERE

The sweetest jeans

Literally. Sugar Cane Jeans are woven with a unique combination of cotton and sugar cane fibers using vintage shuttle looms. The result is some of the finest Japanese selvage denim we have ever seen. Before we go on, it should be noted that shuttle looms haven't been made in over 40 years and result in the smooth, straight edge of selvage denim rather than the frayed edges of traditional, modern denim.

Taking it one step further, Sugar Cane is one of the few companies to master the dying technique of using natural dyes such as mud, grass, persimmon and green tea.

We haven't found a US distributer, but you can purchase them at Togged.com for around $400.

For more info: Sugar Cane

Earnest Sewn announces Trovata pop-up

On the heels of their incredibly successful Repetto pop-up, Earnest Sewn and Trovata are joining forces to bring East and West together. Trovata's store within a store will be designed after their houseboat-style Newport, CA shop with the help of John Whitledge, Trovata's founder and designer. In addition to apparel, be sure to keep your eyes peeled for rare vintage books, magazines, nick-nacs and accessories. And of course, there will be a number of limited-edition collaborations in the 420 sqft boutique.

Pop into the pop-up starting January 9th at Earnest Sewn's Washington St. outpost.
Earnest Sewn
821 Washington Street
New York, NY 10014
212-242-3414

Threesome: Earnest Sewn + Repetto + Cone Denim

You already know about the Earnest Sewn and Repetto collaboration but have you seen the latest organic range? Thanks to the help of organic denim from the infamous Cone Denim, and the partnership with design incubator, Barneys New York, Earnest Sewn and Repetto have taken their collection from the shelves of their Meatpacking District store to the masses. Two styles, a ballet flat for women and a jazz shoe for men, are made of 100% organic cotton denim with the only additive being starch in the construction process.

Ecco Domani Fashion Fund announcements

A quick congratulations to our friend and fellow denim lover, Alexander Wang, for his Ecco Domani win this year. The iconic fashion award bestows $25,000 to their seven winners to allot to their Fall 2008 collections to be shown in New York next month. Alex and his fellow winners were selected from more than 100 entrants by industry power players such as Barney's Julie Gilhart, Paper magazine's Kim Hastreiter, and Vogue-ette Sally Singer.

For the full list of winners and more info: WWD

Levi's on CNBC

While usually we spend our Tuesday's following Mogens attempt to summit on Everest: Beyond the Limit, this Tuesday we're skipping it to tune into the Levi's documentary airing on CNBC at 10pm EST. The hour-long episode with Carl Quintanilla walks you through the successes and failures of America's denim icon.

Check out a preview HERE

David Cardona joins R&R

David Cardona, former military aircraft designer (serious,) has joined Rock & Republic under creative director and founder, Michael Ball as VP of design, overseeing accessories, denim and rtw for men and women's collections.

Keep a lookout for his first full collection to debut in Spring 2009.

23/501collection

Hitting shelves March 1, 2008 is one of the most exciting collaborations we've seen in quite a while. The Jordan Levi's Collection brings together two American icons, the Levi's 501 and the Air Jordan. The men's only collector's set, called the 23/501 collection, features not only a co-branded jean, but also Air Jordan Retro 1 sneakers and a signature t-shirt. Best of all, you won't have to worry about tracking down each piece of the trifecta as they will only be available in a limited-edition set wrapped in co-branded packaging.

The jeans are classic 501's constructed in premium selvage denim and lined in signature Jordan Brand elephant print. We're most excited about the sneaker protector at the cuff to keep the Retro 1's free of indigo transfer. Additionally, there will be a gold metallic button fly and the Jumpman logo embroidered on the pockets with the Jordan Brand name on the signature leather waistband patch.

Pretty hot, but as hard as it is to believe, it gets even better with the sneaker. The Air Jordan Retro 1's are constructed of Levi's denim and printed with the traditional elephant graphic design.

Mark your calendars and hit up Levi's in SoHo, NYC, San Fran, Santa Monica, and Chicago's Michigan Ave store to ensure you get one of the limited sets. They'll also be available online at levi.com. More of a Nike fan? The set will be available at select Niketown stores as well.

Gustto does denim

After cruising the floors at Bloomingdales a few years ago, we were pleasantly surprised when we came across Gustto, the casual-chic handbag line. With their supple leather and oversized rivet details, they were the perfect unstructured, structured bag. Today we learned they will be expanding their collection to feature denim when it hits shelves this coming spring.

Gustto Denim Couture will retail for $280-$360 and has already been picked up by Kitson and Revolve.com. The collection features three groups named after towns in Sardinia . Cervo will target more fashion-forward girls, Pevero is a bit more casual, and Romanzzion features a higher waist and wider leg.

Agathe Planchon, Gustto's founder, spent over a year working with Japanese denim mills to create gold and silver-flecked denim to distinguish herself from other brands. She notes this is the European in her and she was looking to create something special that other brands don't have.

The cuts we've seen look great, but we're a bit apprehensive of the metallic denim. As you've noticed, we're purists around here.

Diesel DJ Series

Stop by your local Diesel store tomorrow for their DJ Series event. While you're there, pick up a new pair of jeans and receive a free limited-edition "Diesel DJ Series Vol. 2" CD featuring music by 4Hero, West Indian Girl, Emily Simon, and more. You'll find us at the Lex. Ave store--say hi if you're there!

Check out times and locations below:

New York--Union Sq and Lexington Ave. stores 1-5pm

• DJ Rob Swift will take over the Union Sq. store

Atlanta--Lenox Square 1-5pm

• Look for DJ Mars on the decks

Los Angeles--Beverly Center 4-8pm

• DJ Homicide spins all evening

Chicago--Rush Street `1-5pm

San Francisco--Post Street 1-5pm

Miami-- Aventura Mall 5-9pm

Las Vegas--Fashion Show Mall 3-7pm

Dallas--NorthPark Center 1-5pm

Santa Monica--Third Street 1-5pm

Orange County-- South Coast Plaza 1-5pm

Pasadena-- W. Colorado Blvd. 4-8pm

Honolulu--Kalakaua Ave. 5-8pm

King of Prussia--King of Prussia Mall 1-5pm

Long Island--Roosevelt Field Mall 1-5pm