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Selvedge denim, without the jargon

What selvedge actually means, why it costs more, and whether it is worth it for a regular wardrobe.

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A pair of raw denim jeans photographed flat

Selvedge is a weaving term, not a quality grade. It means the fabric was woven on a shuttle loom, which produces a finished, self-bound edge — the selvedge — instead of a fraying one.

Shuttle looms are slower, so the fabric costs more. The practical difference is density: selvedge denim tends to be stiffer at first and to break in more personally over time.

Whether it is worth it depends on how you wear jeans. If jeans are a daily staple, a well-made pair that molds to you is a reasonable investment. If they are occasional, any well-fitting pair will do.

Care is simple: wash rarely, wash cold, hang dry. The less you do, the longer they look like yours.

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