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Traditional denim is a durable fabric made of interwoven cotton twill fibers. It is known for its strength, authenticity, and heritage look.
However, it can be limiting when it comes to movement. This is where stretch denim can come in handy. It combines traditional denim with a small percentage of elastic fibers, such as spandex.
Enhanced Comfort
Regarding jeans, comfort is one of the most important factors for customers. This is why many people prefer to purchase stretch jeans over non-stretch denim. They are more flexible and will immediately conform to the owner’s shape. This makes them more comfortable and can be worn on various occasions.
The main ingredient used to create stretch denim fabric is spandex. This is a synthetic fiber known for its elasticity and durability. This is often combined with cotton or lyocell, natural cellulosic materials. These fabrics also have a high breathability rating, which helps keep the wearer cool and comfortable.
When working with stretch denim fabric, following the instructions on the label carefully is important. Washing these fabrics in cold water is also a good idea to prevent color fading and damage. It is also recommended to avoid washing them in a dryer, as the heat can damage the elastane or spandex fibers. Additionally, it is recommended to fit the jeans snugly to allow for a slight stretch in the material.
Versatility
Denim jeans are versatile and can be made into various styles, fits and washes. This includes skinny, bootcut, wide legs, palazzos and baggies and all the other shapes trending in the market. This gives the customer more options and freedom to choose their fit based on their aesthetic, lifestyle and body type.
The main reason for this versatility is the stretchable denim fabric. The stretchable denim fabric is woven using a combination of cotton and spandex or polyurethane yarn. The cotton is used for strength, while the polyester or polyurethane is added to stretch it. This creates a high-quality, durable, comfortable and stylish fabric that can be worn often.
The stretchable denim fabric can also be used for various other applications, including shirts, dresses, skirts and even hats. Other uses include furniture, curtains, pet beds, clothing, and accessories.
Better Fit
The addition of elastane to denim fabric makes it more form-fitting and comfortable. The material’s elasticity also retains shape even after several wears. Stretchable fabrics are great for curvy women who want to feel confident in their jeans.
Manufacturers add a small percentage of elastane-spandex to create stretchy denim to a cotton blend woven yarn. Spandex is a synthetic fiber that stretches and returns to its original shape almost exactly. This fabric can be used in various clothing, but it is especially popular for jeans because it helps the garment fit better and stay comfortable.
The best stretch jeans are made with a majority of cotton and just a few percent of elastane, which is environmentally friendly. However, some companies have taken it further and created plant-based biodegradable stretch fabric.
Eco-Friendly
Increasingly, consumers want garments that are ethically produced and have a reduced carbon footprint. This means fabric dealers must start offering sustainable alternatives such as lyocell denim. This fabric uses less water and chemicals during washing and is biodegradable.
This is important because many synthetic fabrics used in jeans release toxins that pollute the environment and cause health complications in plant, animal, and human communities. This is particularly true when chemical fertilizers and petrochemicals are used in cotton cultivation.
The good news is that many sustainable denim brands focus on fair trade and sustainability. Look for brands that use GOTS-certified organic cotton, cellulose fiber, and recycled elastane. And look for brands that use a patented technology called Bluedrop to reduce the water they use during their wash and finishing processes.
Finally, ensure that the company you buy from uses a front-loading washer by Candiani or Saitex that cuts water usage by 70 to 80%. Also, look for the brand to be B Corp certified, which requires them to be transparent about their supply chain and meet certain environmental standards.
Style Statement
This heavyweight fabric is woven using natural cotton threads and an indigo-dyed warp thread. The twill construction features a diagonal rib pattern. The origins of denim are unknown, but it’s said that luck played a role in its development. While attempting to replicate a hard-wearing cotton fabric known as selvage, weavers discovered that the threads of the denim twisted when they were washed, creating the characteristic diagonal lines that are now a hallmark of this iconic fabric.
The fibers that construct this fabric are long and amorphous, and these strands create softness in the garment. The short, rigid segments reinforce the elasticity of the filling yarn. Combining these properties means this stretch denim can return to its original shape when the force is removed.
This is a great choice for skinny jeans, and it’s also ideal for fitted pants, dresses, skirts and some tops. However, this kind of denim does require a little more care. It should be washed in cold water and line-dried to reduce heat damage and shrinkage. Limiting washing and only washing when the fabric needs it is best.
