Kéji Denim: Redefining Jeans

As we have seen in the Fall Collections, Denim is having quite the moment. Whether frayed, fringed, pleated, slouched, whitewashed, or crinkled, Jeans are taking on their own Gold Rush. But instead of being a short-lived trend - a concept which has become a faux pas in terms of style and sustainability - some innovators have  focused on timeless design and bringing Denim back to the roots.

My favourite new discovery is denim label Kéji Denim, started by Katie Green a former editor of Love Magazine and buyer at Net a Porter. I imagine it is that experience of being directly involved with the changing styles and finding new aesthetics which has allowed her to get to know her customer and her contemporary needs.

We see a shift from “I need a new wardrobe every season” to investing in key pieces which last years (if not decades) and can be dressed up or down, complimenting the lifestyle of a modern woman. In an interview with Vogue magazine she says that her choice to work with denim is that it is a “universal language” and can reach any generation, occupation, culture, and lifestyle. True Dat.

Instead of “just” throwing on a pair of jeans for an “off duty” look, Kéji denim makes the point that denim can be precisely tailored and crisp for a polished look and offer a refined silhouette for everyday street style - not at all Slouch and Grouch. With an aesthetic born from utilitarian function from the 1800s and the days of Taylorism and scientific management, as well as the juxtaposition of hyper modern Japanese minimalism and sleekness, Kéji proves the timeless appeal of quality denim. [Side Note on quality: Kéji denim uses chemical free indigo, with the denim from Japan and made in Hong Kong.]

To make 1 pair of jeans you need about 1,500 gallons of water to grow enough cotton so how can we be more environmentally friendly? Why not invest in quality - a piece which stays with you for years to come.

Long Live the Canadian Tuxedo!