Mandarin Gallery Blog

Cotton is the most hardworking fabric there is and denim is the most hardworking cotton of all. Denim’s durability and versatility are the main reasons why almost all of us will have a favourite pair of jeans that we reach for time and again. Perfect for dress-down days, it epitomizes casual wear. However, in recent years, this working man’s staple has been given a makeover to become luxury products. And designer denim is born.

Forking out hundreds of dollars for denim may not seem like a good idea to many of us, but converts insist that excellent craftsmanship, impeccable cuts and flattering fits make these jeans worth every penny. If you believe that a good pair of jeans is an important investment to make for your wardrobe, here are some of the best denim labels available on the market.

Spotting the distinctive logo of a smiling Buddha with a guitar, True Religion jeans (available at Bread & Butter) have become well known for its 70s-inspired premium denim. Not for the faint-hearted, True Religion designs feature eye-catching details such as sequined side trims and animal print motifs on the back pockets. The brand’s hippie boho-chic style is particularly evident in its bootcut and flare pieces. Since its inception in 2002, True Religion has expanded its denim line to casual sportswear, which includes footwear, swimwear and even fragrances.

With most Singaporean men living in jeans on their off days, quality denim is a more pertinent pursuit for the boys. Unlike the fashion forward ladies, guys are less influenced by trends and usually go for the timeless cuts and simpler designs. The following labels have made it their business to produce jeans that will see you through many long years.

Hailing from Gothenburg, Sweden, Nudie has attained a global cult following, which include teenage celebrities Zac Efron and the Jonas Brothers. Taking on a traditional attitude towards denim, Nudie jeans do not follow fashion trends but believe in good design and high quality that last a lifetime. Allow your Nudie to fade and age naturally and mould it into a personal second skin.

For the eco-friendly shopper, it is good to know that Nudie is dedicated to the development of organic denim. No chemicals, from insecticides to synthetic dyes, are included in the production process and every step is carried out in accordance with ecological procedures. Looking fabulous has never been so good for the environment, and you can check them all out at The Denim Store.

Streetwear label Original Fake started delving into denim in 2007 with a pair of raw selvedge denim and has since come a long way in churning out designer jeans. Most noteworthy of all is its high profile collaboration with Levi’s. Bringing together the classic 501 cut of the veteran jeans-maker with the iconic graphic design from Original Fake, these jeans are limited edition pieces that rank high among denim connoisseurs.

Bread & Butter is located at #01-10, #02-11, The Denim Store at #03-09/10/11 and Ambush is at #03-14, Mandarin Gallery