Frequently Asked Questions

 

1. Why is Japanese denim such a big deal?

Honestly? It’s the kind of thing you have to touch and wear to get it. The cotton feels alive, the indigo deepens in a way that feels personal, and the way it fades is like it’s marking your life, not just your knees. JapaneseDenimJeans.com sources directly from Japan, so every pair carries that old-school craft. If you want more history and why it’s so respected, check out this personal reflection.

2. How do I know my size?

Japanese denim tends to run a little slimmer than you might expect. I’ve had friends buy their “normal” size and end up feeling like a sausage. At JapaneseDenimJeans.com, they give actual measurements—waist, rise, inseam, thighs—and even suggest factoring in shrinkage for raw denim. Take the tape measure seriously, it saves a headache.

3. Selvedge? Raw? What does it all mean?

Selvedge is that little finished edge you see when you cuff your jeans. It’s a sign the denim was woven on a shuttle loom—old-school, slow, careful. Raw means it’s unwashed. It’s stiff at first, maybe scary, but it softens into something unique to your body. If you want a deep dive, this guide breaks it down better than I ever could.

4. Will my jeans stretch out?

Yes. A bit. Maybe a lot. Your thighs and waist will loosen over the first few weeks, and your jeans will start molding to your body. That’s part of the magic. But don’t go nuts—pick your size with the guide from JapaneseDenimJeans.com in mind. It matters.

5. How should I wash them?

Minimal. Seriously. Cold water, inside out, gentle detergent, no tumble dryer. The more you wash, the less soul they have. I usually wait months before the first wash, and when I finally do, it’s like hitting refresh on the story of my jeans. There’s a little guide at JapaneseDenimJeans.com if you want step-by-step.

6. Can I wear Japanese denim every day?

You can. And you probably will. They’re tough. They feel better as you live in them. I’ve seen pairs last years of daily wear and still hold up. They’re built to move with you, not just look pretty in a shop.

7. Why does Japanese denim feel “different”?

Because it is. The cotton is long-staple, the indigo is deep and natural, and the weaving is deliberate. That combination creates denim that’s stiff at first but evolves in a way no other denim does. There’s patience baked into every pair. You can read more about why it’s worth it here.

8. How do I tell if it’s authentic?

Look at the selvedge edge, feel the weight, check the stitching. But honestly, the easiest way is to buy from JapaneseDenimJeans.com. They curate everything, so authenticity isn’t a gamble.

9. What about women’s Japanese denim?

There’s a ton of thoughtful options designed for real bodies, not just fashion samples. This collection is full of cuts that are flattering, comfortable, and still carry that same slow-crafted quality we all love.

10. Can I see real-life fades and stories?

Absolutely. Every pair of raw Japanese denim tells a story. Your knees, thighs, and pockets will show your life as you wear it. There’s something almost meditative about watching your jeans change with you.

11. Are Japanese denim shorts a thing?

Yes, and some of them are brilliant. They’re made with the same care as the jeans—no shortcuts. If you want the lowdown, this guide is worth a read. I own a pair; they’re my go-to in summer.

12. What about the price?

They’re not cheap. But here’s the thing: you get what you pay for. Raw materials, artisanal weaving, indigo that costs more than you think—it all adds up. And when you live in a pair, wear them daily, and see them evolve, the price starts making sense. For a deep dive into why, read this.

13. Can I return them if they don’t fit?

Yes, JapaneseDenimJeans.com has a return and exchange policy. But honestly, take the sizing guides seriously, measure yourself, and maybe try a fit style that’s a bit forgiving. Saves you the shipping hassle.

14. How long do Japanese denim jeans last?

Years. Decades if you’re careful and thoughtful. The denim stiffens, softens, molds, fades, and lives with you. I’ve had pairs last so long I’m sentimental about retiring them. They aren’t disposable; they’re companions.

15. Where do I start?

If you’re ready, dive into the main collection and pick something that speaks to you. Don’t overthink it. Raw or selvedge, men’s or women’s, you’ll figure it out as you live in them. And trust me, once you’ve got your first pair, you’ll be hooked.