Blackhorse Lane Ateliers

The longest-lasting jeans you can buy are made from raw selvedge denim, like those from Blackhorse Lane. They use heavyweight organic or raw denim, triple-stitched seams, and reinforced stress zones, which all boost durability. Unlike fast fashion pairs, these are built to be repaired and reworn for decades - not ditched after a season. They even come with a lifetime repair guarantee, which rather says it all. With the right care, they’ll age beautifully and cost less per wear over time. Learn more about how we research and choose products built to last.

To keep raw denim looking great for longer, wash sparingly and gently. Turn the jeans inside out and use cold water - either by hand or on a delicate machine cycle. A mild detergent (no bleach, ta very much) keeps the indigo vibrant. Always air dry, ideally flat or hanging from the waistband. Avoid heat, which causes shrinking and ruins the shape. A little patience preserves both colour and the characterful fades raw denim fans love. For more advice, see our guide on how to make your clothes last longer.

Yes, Blackhorse Lane jeans can be altered or shortened, thanks to their tailored, London-made construction. Whether you need them hemmed, tapered or taken in at the waist, it’s all doable - either via your local tailor or Blackhorse Lane’s in-house service. If you want to keep the original selvedge edge, ask for a “chain stitch hem,” which needs a bit of specialist kit. Not every tailor offers that, so it’s worth checking.

To measure your waist correctly for a pair of jeans, wrap a soft tape measure around your natural waist - just above your belly button. Don’t hold your breath or yank it tight; keep things level and snug. Then check the brand’s size guide, as measurements vary. Measure higher for high-rise cuts and lower for hip-hugging styles. When stuck between sizes, it’s usually easier to size up and take them in later.

The shoes that work best with wide leg jeans tend to add weight or structure. Think chunky boots, platform sandals or sturdy trainers to balance out the volume. For a sleeker look, loafers or slim-profile trainers also pass muster. Aim for an ankle skim or slight break to avoid your hem sweeping the pavement. When in doubt, cuff the hem and try on a few styles - sometimes it’s the little roll that makes all the difference.

The difference between tapered and boyfriend jeans is all down to fit. Tapered jeans narrow from thigh to ankle, giving a sleeker, more tailored silhouette. Boyfriend jeans, on the other hand, are looser all over, with a more relaxed leg and a lower, slouchy rise. They’re meant to look a bit borrowed - think Sunday coffee run. Both can last well when made from solid materials like raw or selvedge denim.

Tumble drying selvedge denim is a no-go - it will shrink and strain the fibres. Raw selvedge denim hasn’t been pre-washed, so heat can cause real grief in the fit department. Best stick with air drying: hang from the waistband or lay flat somewhere shaded to avoid fading. With gentle care like this, your selvedge jeans will stay looking sharp (and still fit) for years. For more garment care tips, explore our main guide to care and repair.

Absolutely! You can round off your look with other long-lasting essentials from our durable-mens-clothing and durable-womens-clothing collections. Everything’s built to the same high standards of quality, with repair and longevity in mind. So your jeans won’t be the only thing pulling their weight season after season.