Denim

Etymologically, Denim is derived from 'serge de Nimes' in France, a wool silk mix fabric with twill weave. Dating back to late 1700s, denim constitutes a rugged cotton textile which has the weft passing through two or more warp fibers. The weave of this fabric produces a diagonal ribbing on the reverse of the fabric. The denim material is very strong and does not wear out easily. The use of this fabric can be traced to the 18th century where workers and laborers preferred denim over other fabrics for its durability and strength. The increase in cotton plantation too, was in a way instrumental in the growing popularity of the denim. Further, in the 19th century, gold miners wanted durable clothes that could sustain the wear and tear of mine workers. Denim was the ready solution to their problem. This was also the preference of most mechanics and painters. Most common use of denim was to make overalls out of them. In 1817, the U.S. navy included denim bell-bottomed trousers as part of their uniform, thanks to its durability and comfort. Initially, denim was dyed indigo and purely made to be durable. However, over the years, denim has acquired a style-statement and has also been associated with the cowboys. With denim's growing popularity, the fabric was experimented with to provide a variety for its users. This resulted in pre-washed denim, stone-washed denim, sandblasted denim, vintage denim and dry denim. All these types of materials provide equal durability, but look very different from one another. Various brands have evolved over the years, manufacturing trousers and overalls of denim.