Slick Style: Waxed Denim

We’ve discussed dry denim and raw denim, now for something a little less traditional. Waxed denim – or in some cases, coated denim – is kind of the “wash” of the future. Denim brands are starting to feature this wacky, or waxy, idea. Some jeans have a subtle sheen while others look like they are made from a completely different material. J Brand’s version has a rubbery texture because of its resin coating while Naked & Famous’ approach is more leathery.

“The new waxed denim is quite simply a wax coated Japanese denim,” says Naked & Famous founder Brandon Svarc. “The paraffin wax is sprayed onto the denim and then baked in order to adhere it to the fabric. You’ll notice a bit of a shine from the coating, and the more you beat up your jeans, the more the natural creases and marks will develop and start to wear away at the coating.”

So if you’re looking for a way to shake up your denim game, this is definitely the way to go. Just make sure you have a reliable dry cleaner, don’t sit on any white couches and don’t get too close to any heat sources. Oh, and if you’re more of a do it yourself-er, you can always pick up some Otter Wax from Portland, Oregon.

J Brand – Tyler in Underground – Slim fit in a grey stretch jean with a matte black tar-like coating applied in the garment form with the slightest abrasion.

Paige Denim – Coated Slim Fit Jeans – Proportionately cut slim-fitting jeans are crafted in America from black coated denim, giving the style a tough-looking sheen when caught in the light.

Naked & Famous – Wax Coated Jeans – Exclusively at Barney’s, Skinny leg, five-pocket style; metal logo buttons and rivets.

7 For All Mankind – Slim Straight Leg in Black Coated Indigo – Coated denim that will gradually wear over time, giving your jeans some additional character.

Diesel Waxed Denim Jeans – Black cotton waxed denim jeans from Diesel featuring a concealed zip fastening, belt loops, side seam pockets, rear welt pockets, a leather brand patch to the rear and a slim fit.