Uniqlo 2015

Key Styles

Edwin

A true denim OG, Edwin’s jeans might not come cheap but in cost-per-wear terms, they’re a smart buy you’ll keep for years. Founded in Japan in 1947 when the country’s homegrown denim was somewhat lacking, the brand innovated right out of the gate, introducing rainbow selvedge and inventing stonewashing. Yup, you can blame all your 1980s flashbacks on Edwin. Today it’s cultivated an uncluttered, simple, and not-too-skinny aesthetic. Relaxed, tapered silhouettes are the brand’s strong suit, and each design is replete with detail from custom rivets to intricate stitching. If you favour the distressed look, Edwin practically invented the concept of pre-worn jeans and each scuff and tear is perfectly considered. Best for: Traditionalists. How much? From £80.

Edwin AW16

Key Styles

River Island

Once the home of trashed skinnies and reality TV star-cutoffs, River Island has levelled up its fashion credentials recently, overhauling its denim offering in the process. The array of fits has been reduced to key styles that cater to the way guys really wear jeans: you’ll find Dylan for slim, Sid for stretch-skinny, Curtis for slouchy and so on. Most hover around the £30-35 mark but you won’t see any above £60, making this a good stop-off if you want to experiment with styles. The more expensive versions borrow a trick from women’s jeans, harnessing ‘extreme stretch’ that snaps back to shape after wear, meaning no sagging or bagging, as well as supreme comfort – especially if you’re between sizes (plus, no more loosening your belt after a burger). Best for: Choice. How much? From £30.

River Island Denim 2016

Key Styles

Nudie Jeans

Nudie’s jeans feel right from the first touch. The denim’s substantial in a way that fans of high-end labels will recognise and that’s partially due to it being 100 per cent organic, with much of the manufacture taking place in Italy. Famous for skinny jeans that are designed to break in and soften over their lifespan, the Scandinavian label pays all its workers a living wage, and aims to be sustainable at every level of the production cycle. They even provide a repair service, no matter how old your Nudies. Bring a (clean) pair to one of their Repair Shops and they’ll patch them up for you, no questions asked. Best for: A clear conscience. How much? From £89.