Jean Washes
The wash is the colour and finish of the denim, and it decides how smart or casual a pair of jeans looks. This hub explains the main denim washes, so a product name tells you the shade and character. Browse men's jeans (/collections/mens-jeans-denim).
Dark and smart
Raw Denim
Unwashed denim in its deepest indigo.
What defines it
Raw, or dry denim is left unwashed after dyeing, so it starts stiff and dark and fades to a unique pattern with wear.
Who it suits
It suits denim enthusiasts and smart wear. Browse men's jeans (/collections/mens-jeans-denim).
Rinse Wash
A single rinse that softens without fading.
What defines it
A rinse wash gives denim one gentle wash to soften it and set the size while keeping a deep, even, dark colour.
Who it suits
It suits the smartest denim looks. Browse Jacob Cohen jeans (/collections/mens-jacob-cohen-jeans).
Dark Wash
A rich, deep indigo with subtle contrast.
What defines it
A dark wash keeps a deep indigo with only light fading, the most versatile and smart-leaning shade of blue denim.
Who it suits
It suits smart-casual and evening wear.
Black Denim
Denim dyed black rather than indigo.
What defines it
Black denim is dyed black for a sleek, versatile look that reads smarter than blue and pairs easily with dark outfits.
Who it suits
It suits evening and monochrome looks. Browse men's jeans (/collections/mens-jeans-denim).
Mid and classic
Mid Wash
A classic medium blue with natural fading.
What defines it
A mid wash sits between dark and light with natural highs and lows, the classic everyday blue jean.
Who it suits
It suits relaxed, everyday wear.
Stonewash
Denim washed with stones for a soft, faded look.
What defines it
Stonewashing tumbles denim with pumice stones to soften it and create an even, faded, lived-in finish.
Who it suits
It suits casual, worn-in styling.
Vintage Wash
A faded finish that mimics years of wear.
What defines it
A vintage wash uses fading and subtle whiskering to recreate the look of denim broken in over years.
Who it suits
It suits a relaxed, heritage look. Browse men's jeans (/collections/mens-jeans-denim).
Light and casual
Light Wash
A pale, sun-faded blue.
What defines it
A light wash fades the indigo to a pale, airy blue for the most casual, summery denim look.
Who it suits
It suits warm-weather casual outfits.
Bleach Wash
A very pale, bleached-out denim.
What defines it
A bleach wash lightens denim further with a bleaching stage for a bold, washed-out, retro effect.
Who it suits
It suits statement, fashion-led wear.
Ecru & Coloured
Undyed or colour-dyed denim.
What defines it
Ecru denim is left its natural off-white, while coloured denim is dyed in tones other than indigo for a different look.
Who it suits
It suits summer and creative outfits. Browse Paul Smith jeans (/collections/mens-paul-smith-jeans).
Frequently asked questions
What is the most versatile jean wash?
A dark wash or a rinse in deep indigo is the most versatile. It reads smart enough for a night out or a smart-casual office yet still works with trainers at the weekend, and it pairs with almost any top. Black denim is an equally flexible alternative.
What is raw denim?
Raw, or dry denim is denim that has not been washed after dyeing, so it starts dark, stiff and uniform. Worn regularly, it fades gradually at the natural stress points to create a personal pattern of highs and lows, which is why denim enthusiasts prize it.
Are dark or light jeans smarter?
Dark jeans are smarter. A deep indigo or black denim with minimal fading looks closest to tailored trousers and dresses up easily for evening or smart-casual wear. Light and heavily faded washes read more casual and are best kept for relaxed, warm-weather outfits.