What is the best raw, selvedge denim jean?
Preferably priced under $200 and fitting close to a Levi's 514 or 511.
While Gap and Banana Republic both offer selvedge denim these days, nothing compares to G-Star's Handcrafted denim in terms of quality, fabric weight, construction, look, and feel. Here's a link to G-Star's website
Unfortunately, you cannot buy them online, but you can peruse the collection, and, with stores all over the world, you should be able to find one in a major city near you. The brand is also carried at department stores, although the Handcrafted edition of jeans is usually only in G-Star stores.
19 Answers
Gap selvage denim is a great deal and a good deal. $88. Obviously widely available as well. I believe it comes in most standard gap cuts.
Gap selvage denim is a great deal and a good look. $88. Obviously widely available as well. I believe it comes in most standard gap cuts.
Self Edge probably has the best selection of high quality raw selvedge jeans money can buy. (or a lot of money can buy.. gotta pay for quality)
Most if not all of their stuff is heavy weight Japanese denim that stands the test of time and breaks in beautifully with dramatic fades.
Flat Head is a great example.
"Flat Head"http://www.selfedge.com/shop/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=68&products_id=295
If you are looking for premium, raw, Japanese denim...you won't do any better than jeans from RRL. They are Ralph Lauren's super elite jeans. These are incredible. I have one pair right now and when I'm wearing them, I can't be stopped. I suggest you win this eBay auction pronto.
For what I think you're looking for I'd second the APC suggestion, though I think the New Cures are closer to 511s. Perhaps just over the 200 mark would be nudie's, which are raw and look amazing but do wear out fairly quickly. If you want to go much cheaper then Cheap Mondays (think levis 510s for most of their cuts) make some raw denim that's pretty damn good for the price (about $65)
I don't think you can beat the price to quality you get with A.P.C new standards, they are a staple and should be in anyone gentlemans wardrobe. I would also check out blueingreensoho.com for a great shop that carries Japanese denim, most might be over your budget, but you get amazing quality and denim.
APC New Standards
These are $155 and have either a slim fit if sized down, or a more traditional full sizing if fit more true to size. There's a store located in NYC that is very helpful - even if you don't live close enough to visit it's worth the phone call.
If you want to spend a little more, there's other brands such as Samurai, Pure Blue Japan, even Dior - just to name a few (however these are not under $200)