Better with Age Better with Age Better with Age Better with Age

The process of breaking in raw denim is almost like a rite of passage for denim enthusiasts. Unlike pre-distressed jeans that come with factory-created fades, raw denim starts as a blank slate. The fading, fraying, and stretching that occurs over months or years is entirely dependent on how and where the jeans are worn. Denim aficionados often refrain from washing their jeans for long periods to allow the fabric to develop more pronounced fades and a lived-in feel.

Brands like Levi’s and Nudie Jeans have built cult followings better with age around their raw denim products. In recent years, high-end brands like A.P.C. and Iron Heart have entered the market, offering raw denim products that cater to denim purists. These brands promote the idea that their jeans are meant to be worn hard and often, and that they’ll only get better with time.

Beyond jeans, other denim items, such as jackets, shirts, and vests, are equally revered for their ability to age beautifully. Denim jackets, in particular, often develop character through the fraying of seams, discoloration from sun exposure, and the softening of fabric, making them wardrobe staples that stand the test of time.

4. Leather: A Material That Tells a Story

Like denim, leather is another material that gains character with age. A well-made leather jacket, bag, or pair of shoes can last decades, developing a patina that gives it a unique appearance. Leather items are prized not only for their durability but also for the way they become more comfortable over time.

Leather goods, particularly jackets, hold a special place in the “better with age” narrative. A new leather jacket is stiff, and often requires months or years of wear befoBetter With Age clothing re it begins to soften and conform to the shape of the wearer’s body. Over time, the jacket molds to the wearer’s movements, developing a natural patina that is unique to each piece.

The natural aging process of leather is highly sought after by fashion enthusiasts. Scratches, wrinkles, and fading add to the jacket’s story and give it a rugged, worn-in look that’s impossible to replicate with brand-new items. Leather brands like Schott NYC, known for its iconic motorcycle jackets, have built their reputation on creating jackets that only improve with wear.

Leather bags and shoes also follow this pattern, as they develop creases and marks that show they have been lived in. High-end leather goods brands like Hermès and Louis Vuitton are particularly revered for their craftsmanship, and their items, though expensive, are often seen as investments because they retain value over time and age gracefully.

5. Embracing Imperfection: The Wabi-Sabi Influence

The idea of “better with age” closely aligns with the Japanese aesthetic philosophy of wabi-sabi, which celebrates imperfection and transience. In fashion, this can be seen in the appreciation for garments that have worn edges, faded colors, or visible repairs. Wabi-sabi encourages individuals to embrace the beauty in the natural aging process, rather than trying to hide or fix perceived flaws.

Fashion brands have tapped into this philosophy by creating collections that celebrate worn and aged looks. Some brands have even taken this a step further by incorporating visible mending or distressing into their designs. These items are meant to look like they’ve already been through years of wear, offering a sense of nostalgia and familiarity.

6. The Culture of Secondhand and Vintage Shopping

With the rise of the “better with age” mentality, secondhand and vintage shopping has exploded in popularity. Thrift stores, online resale platforms like Depop and The RealReal, and curated vintage boutiques have become essential parts of the fashion landscape. Consumers are actively seeking out older garments, not only because they are often more affordable than new designer pieces, but because of the unique style and quality they offer.

The secondhand market is particularly appealing to younger generations, who are becoming more conscious of sustainability and the impact their consumption has on the environment. By purchasing vintage or pre-loved items, consumers are extending the lifecycle of garments and reducing waste.

Vintage shopping also offers a treasure hunt-like experience. Shoppers never know what they might find in a secondhand store, and each piece has the potential to be a rare, one-of-a-kind discovery. This sense of adventure adds to the allure of vintage fashion and contributes to its growing popularity.

7. Why Fashion “Better with Age” Matters

The idea that fashion gets “better with age” challenges the modern obsession with the new and the disposable. In a world where fast fashion dominates and trends change every few months, embracing aged fashion encourages consumers to slow down and appreciate the craftsmanship, quality, and stories behind their clothing.

Moreover, aged fashion promotes sustainability by encouraging the re-use, repair, and appreciation of garments rather than constant consumption. It also fosters a deeper connection between individuals and their clothing. When people invest in pieces that they know will improve with time, they are more likely to take care of them, repair them when needed, and keep them for years to come.

In conclusion, the “better with age” philosophy in fashion is more than just a trend—it’s a lifestyle and a mindset that values durability, individuality, and sustainability. Whether it’s through vintage shopping, raw denim, or well-loved leather jackets, embracing fashion that improves with time offers a timeless appeal that will never go out of style.