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More than just a pair of jeans
We all know denim. But did you know that denim is in fact the fabric, and jeans are just one of the many garments created from it? Skirts, dresses, blouses, shirts – denim features in far more than the classic pair of trousers. And that is a good thing. For hardly any other material is as adaptable, as authentic and at the same time as timelessly beautiful. Denim does not grow old. It becomes better. With every wash and every wear, it develops its very own character – and that is precisely what makes it so special.
Discover the most beautiful denim styles from the MADELEINE collection now and find your perfect look:
Fashion in denim: rugged elegance and timeless style
Denim is perhaps the most democratic fabric in fashion. Loved by young and old alike, easy to combine with almost anything and impossible to imagine a wardrobe without since the 1960s and 1970s. Yet denim has long been more than classic jeans. Skirts, dresses, blouses and shirts – denim fashion has continually reinvented itself. And with good reason.
Denim and jeans – what’s the difference?
In short: denim refers to the fabric, jeans to the finished garment. Denim is a durable woven cotton fabric. Originally designed for hard workwear, it has since become one of the most versatile materials in fashion. And because denim is so adaptable, it is now used for far more than just trousers.
Not all denim is the same: quality, texture and colour
Not every denim is created equal. Quality can be recognised through the fabric weight, the cotton and stretch content, and the workmanship of the seams.
A large part of the appeal of denim lies in the wash. It determines the character and appearance of the fabric. Classic denim shades range from indigo and “dark blue” to lighter “bleached” finishes and black in every variation. And what about colours such as burgundy or sage? Strictly speaking, these are not classic denim shades, but twill fabrics. Denim is traditionally available in blue and black tones.
Which jean fits are there?
The fit determines how jeans sit, how they look and whether they remain comfortable throughout the day. From narrow to wide – here is a brief overview of the most important fits at MADELEINE:
• Skinny jeans: very figure-hugging and close-fitting right down to the ankle.
• Slim fit: narrow silhouette with slightly tapered leg.
• Straight leg: straight from knee to hem. Clean, timeless and versatile – the classic fit that always works.
• Boot cut: slightly flared from the knee down. A style making a comeback, alongside flared jeans – the more dramatic variation of the boot cut. Ideal with boots, creating a beautifully elongated silhouette.
• Barrel leg: wide through the thigh in a relaxed O-shape, narrowing towards the ankle – contemporary and an exciting alternative to the wide leg.
• Wide leg: wide, relaxed and effortless – offering maximum comfort, whether for business, events or leisure.
Did you know? Why jeans have small metal rivets
The rivets on a pair of jeans are no coincidence and certainly not just a design detail. They have a practical origin. In 1873, tailor Jacob Davis patented the metal rivets on trouser pockets because gold miners repeatedly complained about torn seams. The rivets reinforced the areas under the greatest strain. What was once a necessity has since become an iconic hallmark. Jeans quite literally wear their history.
Caring for denim properly – keeping the colour longer
Denim is durable, but a little care goes a long way:
• Wash jeans properly – preserving the colour: always wash according to the care label and avoid fabric softener, as it can attack the elastic fibres and cause the colour to fade more quickly.
• How often should jeans be washed? As rarely as possible – after around five wears is usually enough. To freshen them up, simply air them overnight.
• Ironing: denim can be ironed, if necessary, inside out and according to the care instructions on the label.
Styling denim – from jeans to dresses
The beauty of denim? It always works.
• Denim in the office: absolutely. A darker pair of jeans or a textured denim blouse styled with a blazer creates a polished look while still feeling relaxed.
• Denim dresses: effortlessly feminine and easy to wear. Suitable for countless occasions.
• Denim in summer: light shades, airy silhouettes and open shoes. Bleached denim instantly brings a fresh new feel to every look.
• Layering with denim: a denim jacket over a white T-shirt and a waistcoat, or jeans styled under a flowing coat – denim is the perfect layering partner for all seasons.
• All-over denim: either deliberately mix different shades and washes for a more dynamic look, or style the same shade from head to toe. Both work beautifully – confidence is key.
Denim fashion – timeless, versatile and always current
Denim is more than a fabric. It is an attitude. Relaxed yet elegant, durable yet soft, classic yet modern – denim combines contrasts like no other material. With the right care, it only becomes more beautiful with every wear. And with the perfect fit, it simply feels right.