Raw denim: what it is and how to wear and care for it

Raw denim is denim fabric that was not washed after dyeing. That is why it is dark, even and a little stiffer than washed jeans. The Star Denim line has raw denim in two colours: Raw Blue and Raw Black.

Raw denim feels different and needs different care. Here is what that means day to day.

What is raw denim?

With most jeans, the fabric is washed after sewing, often several times. That makes the colour lighter, the fabric softer and creates effects like the distressing at the hem of Sahara Sky.

Raw denim skips this step. The colour is still fully in the fabric.

You can see it: the surface is deep and calm, and the seams stand out against it. On Raw Blue it is light seams on blue denim, on Raw Black white seams on black.

Why does raw denim rub off?

Because the excess dye has not been washed out yet. The product page puts it like this: can rub off slightly onto light fabrics before the first wear. Light sneakers, light sofas and bags that rub against your hip are the most affected.

One review says: "they both lose color on my shoes so my shoes are now part black and part blue". That is exactly the effect. So plan the first few days with dark shoes or away from light upholstery.

How to wash raw denim.

Star Denim Raw is not made for the washing machine, we recommend hand washing. Here is how:

1. Turn the jeans inside out and button them up.
2. Fill a bathtub or sink with cold water and add a little mild detergent.
3. Lay the jeans in flat and press them under the water, no rubbing or wringing.
4. Rinse them with clean water.
5. Hang them up to dry, not in the dryer and not on the radiator.

Wash the raw pair on its own the first time. Dye will come out, that is normal.

How often should you wash raw denim?

As rarely as possible. Every wash takes colour with it, and where the jeans crease as you wear them, they get lighter over time.

That is why people buy raw denim: the jeans take on your pattern. Between washes, airing them out overnight helps.

Does raw denim shrink?

Unwashed fabric can get shorter in the first wash. We have not measured how much that is for Star Denim Raw yet, so we are not giving a number here.

Cold water and air drying keep the risk low. The measurements for every size are in the size guide.

How to wear raw denim.

Raw Blue and Raw Black are the calmest base in the line. Anything with colour or a print on top works with them: a white tee, a hoodie in Cream or Melange Grey, a graphic tee.

White sneakers work too, ideally after the first wash so they stay white.

You will find more looks in How to style wide leg jeans, and the other washes compared in Star Denim washes explained.

FAQ.

Can I put raw denim in the washing machine?

For Star Denim Raw we do not recommend it. It is not made for the washing machine, so hand wash it in cold water.

Does the rubbing off stop?

The note on the product applies to the time before the first wear and wash. With every hand wash, less dye comes out.

Do Raw Blue and Raw Black have the same cut as the other Star Denim?

Yes, the Regular Open Leg Fit, with an embossed logo on the back pocket and a logo patch on the back waistband. You will find every style in the Star Denim jeans collection.