A Decade of Denim

The past 10 years redefined the designer denim industry. Many premium jean lines launched and below is my top 10 list by launch date:

1. 7 For All Mankind: launched in Los Angeles during the fall of 2000 which forever changed the premium denim market. The brand, famously dubbed “Sevens” quickly earned critical acclaim for their innovative use of fits, fabrics, and finishes in denim and have become an instant favorite among Hollywood celebrities.

2. Joe's Jeans: established in 2001 and is recognized for its quality, fit and fashion-forward designs. Seen on many celebrities including Katie Holmes, Jessica Alba and more, their style called “Muse” and “Provocateur” were among their most popular as well as their jean leggings, dubbed “jeggings.”

3. Ed Hardy clothing was established in 2002 primarily based on art work and design from the gifted tattoo artist. Their colorful signature brings new life and imagination to the denim industry.

4. Rock & Republic: the international, lifestyle brand rocked the premium denim jeans world in 2002. Its luxurious, yet edgy approach to fashion is lead by CEO and Creative Director Michael Ball. R&R continues to redefine boundaries in the fashion industry.

5. Hudson: launched in 2002, inspired by the doctrine that the right pair of jeans should be stunningly sexy and lavishly comfortable while naturally complimenting individuality and style sense.

6. CITIZENS of HUMANITY: was founded by Jerome Dahan in 2003. Dahan previously lead the design team for Lucky Brand, and was one of the co-founders of 7 For All Mankind. Known for its vintage look and high quality, “Sevens” are designed to eliminate the notorious peek-a-boo back effect common with most low-risers.

7. True Religion: Jeffrey Lubell founded True Religion in 2002 with the intention of redefining premium denim. His vision was to make quality, American-made, authentic, timeless, great fitting, 1970’s inspired jeans wear, with a trendsetting appeal for today’s consumer. “True Religion is and always will be Timeless, Hippie, Bohemian, Chic.”

8. Paige Premium Denim: founded in 2004 by Paige Adams-Geller. Paige denim was built on the principle that you don’t have to be a size zero to look great and feel great in a pair of designer jeans.

9. James Jeans: established in 2004 by designer, Seun Lim. Known for their Dry Aged Denim, Lim creates jeans that every woman dreams of.

10. J Brand launched as an exclusive at Ron Herman’s Melrose jeans bar in the spring of 2005. The brand had immediate success, and J Brand’s introduction of their skinny straight leg made them the first to produce American-made premium jeans to drive this trend.

Others worthy of mention!

Earnest Sewn is a denim brand which mixes the Japanese beauty aesthetic of Wabi-Sabi, with denim's Americana past. Designed and launched by the former co-founder/designer of Paper Denim & Cloth, Scott Morrison, Earnest Sewn hit the denim world in 2005. Laguna Beach Jean Company washed up on the shores of Orange County in November of 2007. Also in 2007, Not Your Daughter’s Jeans took on the denim world boasting their tummy tuck attributes and real comfort for those obviously old enough to have a daughter!

Which brand is your favorite?
Happy New Year from Jean X and myXjeans!