By contrast to the market saturation of denims which all look the same we are seeing indigo denims which explode out of their constructions. Size really does matter. It is all about big scale, dramatic 3D weaves and haphazard denims that grab a finish when subjected to the rigours of the laundry. Above we have a construction where the technique of "differential shrinkage" of the weft yarns have puckered the surface to create a haphazard ruched seerucker effect........ not intended for jeans but dramatic for tops.
Huge prominent twills that look like corduroy which pop out of the base construction allow us to see the weft valleys between the twill mountains and which react dramatically to the laundry treatments. Inevitably such big twills come in heavier weight denims most suited to bigger shaped jeans and jackets. Quilting is not a fabric we automatically associate with indigo denim but its use as indigo kimonos in japan is historically well known and lives perfectly alongside the big twill. Both giant quilts and mini quilts, which emulate a 3D dobby construction, look fantastic in indigo allowing designers to be super creative with tops that accompany jeans. The resurgence of the kimono jacket has helped this trend for giant constructions to flourish.
L: OFF WHITE
Giant patterns both printed onto and stitched into the garment lend themselves to wide cuts and boxy shapes. Far from distorting a frame, however petite, the drama of both pattern scale and garment shape appears boldly new and eye catching.
L: Martin Grant
Massive shapes and big scale details shift from rave pants to flamboyant couture cuts. Waists and midriffs become important to emphasise as a contrast to the oversize. Some years ago the big cuff was first introduced by MiH jeans and has subsequently flooded even the mass market being logical when combined with wide bottom raw rigid jeans. Such giant shapes and clever cutting calls for greater use of raw rigid or raw stretch denim. Unwashed starched denim helps the sculptural form retain shape longer and of course wear naturally into your own bodily shape. In fact for such enormous shapes in indigo denim there is almost never a need to wash the big jean!