Denim – does it stretch or not?

Denim is a dense cotton fabric traditionally used to make jeans, jackets and other clothes. Many say that it stretches. Others claim the opposite. We at joy-pup will tell you whether denim stretches.

Classic denim – inelastic, but flexible

Initially, denim was made from 100% cotton, which makes it quite stiff and dense. This material itself does not stretch, but over time it can stretch a little during wear. This is due to the fact that the cotton fibers loosen slightly and adapt to the shape of the body.

Classic denim:

• Made without adding elastane or other synthetic fibers.
• It has high wear resistance.
• Over time, it can become softer and stretch slightly in places of tension.
• After washing, it often shrinks, but then wears in again.

Stretch denim – stretches due to elastane

Modern technologies have made it possible to make denim more elastic. In this material, elastane (Lycra, Spandex) or polyester is added to cotton, which gives the fabric the ability to stretch and return to its original shape.

Stretch denim:

• Usually contains from 1% to 5% elastane.
• Easily fits the figure and is comfortable to wear.
• Keeps its shape better than 100% cotton.
• Less durable, since elastane loses elasticity over time.

Rigid denim – does not stretch at all

Rigid denim is a type of classic denim that is not pre-treated and does not contain synthetic additives. It is extremely dense, rough and completely non-elastic. Such jeans require “breaking in” to adapt to the body.

Raw denim – stretches a little over time

Raw denim (raw, untreated denim) also does not have elastic additives, but due to the peculiarities of the weave, it can slightly stretch during wear.

Selvedge denim – dense, but with a little flexibility

Selvedge denim is a high-quality type of fabric with a special edge, which is produced on old weaving machines. It does not contain elastic fibers, but can “shrink” over time to fit the figure.

How to check if denim stretches?

If you want to determine how much denim stretches, try:

• pulling the material with your hands – if it gives in slightly, then it contains elastane;
• look at the label – look for the words “Stretch”, “Lycra”, “Spandex”;
• put on jeans and move around – if the fabric fits comfortably around your body, it’s most likely stretch denim.

You can choose from different types of denim. This will allow you to find high-quality and extremely comfortable items.