One of the best things about jeans is all the different colours, styles and fits. Additionally, there are many different kinds of washes as well. Whether you’re after something dark and sophisticated, something worn or a wash for every day, there’ll be a colour for you. Read on to understand what different washes are, how they are made, and styling options.
In short, a denim wash is the finishing process that gives jeans their colour, texture and worn-in feel. Different washes, such as light wash, dark wash, stone wash and raw denim, each create a different look and level of softness, making them better suited to different outfits and occasions.
What is a Denim Wash
A denim wash is the production and washing process used to change the colour, texture and feel of a pair of jeans. From light wash and medium wash denim to dark wash, stone wash and raw denim, each finish gives jeans a different look, softness and level of wear.
Different washes can completely change how jeans look and feel, affecting everything from colour and durability to softness and structure. At Lee, denim is part of our heritage, and we have worked hard to create a versatile range, from rigid workwear-inspired styles to more modern, comfortable looks.
Different Types of Denim Washes
There are many different types of denim washes, each with its own look, feel and styling potential. While it’s useful to have a favourite wash you reach for often, building a wardrobe with a few different denim washes gives you more options for everyday outfits, smarter occasions and relaxed weekend looks.
Stone Wash Denim
Stone wash denim has a classic, vintage-inspired look. The jeans are washed with pumice stones, which rub against the denim to create a naturally faded finish. This makes stone wash jeans a great choice if you want denim that already looks soft, relaxed and worn in. Stone wash also works well on denim jackets for an easy retro feel.
Acid Wash Denim
Acid wash denim is also created using pumice stones, but the stones are soaked in chlorine to give the fabric a more bleached, high-contrast finish. The result is a bolder, more statement-making denim wash with a distinctive vintage look.
Light Wash Denim
Light wash denim goes through a more thorough washing process to remove more of the dark indigo dye. This gives the denim a softer, more relaxed everyday look, making it a great choice for casual jeans, boyfriend jeans and warmer-weather outfits.
Dark Wash Denim
Dark wash denim has been through a lighter washing process, helping it keep more of its original deep indigo or near-black colour. With minimal fading, dark wash jeans feel clean and classic, making them a strong choice for evening plans, smarter outfits or more formal occasions.
Medium Wash Denim
Medium wash denim sits between light and dark wash styles. It has more fading than dark wash denim but still keeps some of the original blue colour, giving it that classic everyday denim look. It also tends to feel more relaxed than dark or unwashed denim, making it easy to wear day to day.
Raw Denim
Raw denim is denim in its purest form, with little to no additional washing or treatment. It can feel stiffer when new, but that structure helps the jeans mould to your shape over time. This makes raw denim one of the most durable denim options and a pair that can become more personal with every wear.
The colour may rub off naturally over time, so avoid washing raw denim with lighter clothing. As the fabric fades and softens, you’ll be left with a unique pair of jeans shaped by the way you wear them.
How to Style Different Denim Washes
How to Style Stone Wash Denim
The vintage look makes them easy to style. Pair them with other classic pieces, such as plain tees and overshirt, alongside your comfiest trainers for a retro everyday look.
How to Style Light Wash Denim
You can have a bit more fun here as they are one of the more relaxes washes and looks you could go for. Pair with a graphic tee and sandals for a great summer look.
How to Style Dark Wash Denim
Great if you’re looking for something a bit more sophisticated, or for the event. Paired with a more formal shirt, bolder accessories and your best boots, this is a great look to hit the town with.
How to Style Medium Wash Denim
Everything goes with medium wash. You can go casual with a t-shirt and trainers for a weekend or casual work look. But on the other hand, medium wash can be styled up with a nice shirt and sophisticated shoes for a nicer evening look.
How to Style Raw Denim
Because raw denim stands out so much and is a more rugged material, you want to stick to a more classic look for everything else. Go darker with your tops, so the colour doesn’t wash off on them and opt for more durable looking boots as well. And remember, you can probably go much longer than you think before their first wash.
Whether you love the structured look of raw denim or the easy, summery feel of a light wash, there’s a denim wash for every style and occasion. Explore our women’s jeans and men’s jeans to find your new go-to fit, colour and finish.
