- The fabric known as serge de Nimes appeared in France in the 16th Century. Originally a wool blend, the sturdy material evolved over the next couple of hundred years into stout cotton-based, canvas-like material known as denim. Columbus sailed to the new world on sails made from denim. Levi Strauss used the hearty fabric to construct his world famous waist overalls during the California gold rush. James Dean made them cool. Today the humble blue jean is a fashion icon that can be purchased off the rack, or custom made, according to one manufacturer, in more than 89 trillion variations.
- Custom jeans require plenty of specific information in order to fit properly. Of course you could go to a tailor, who would ask all the right questions, take all the appropriate measurements and craft the jeans on site. Or you could utilize the services of custom jean retailers online. These companies can't see you, so you have to follow their instructions and provide the necessary information.
- Jeans are designed to be gender specific, as both men and women differ. Most custom jean manufactures will start with a selection of pre-made design sets which can be customized in a vast array of ways. Once you've decided on the design set you can choose the fabric, style of waist and fly, trim and accents and stitch pattern. You will also need to provide specific measurements that include waist, hips, inseam, outseam and various other positions along your legs and torso.
- When ordering a pair of custom jeans consider that this style of pant is designed to sit on the hips, not around the waist. Standard jeans should button slightly below your naval, while low-rise jeans will ride approximately 3 inches below your belly button. Capri-length jeans and flared legs make you look shorter. Tapered jeans give a slim figure more fullness. Small back pockets tend to accentuate the size of your derrière.
- You can get a pair of Levi's 501 Boyfriend Cut Jeans at the Levi's Store for $19.95. Custom jeans, on the other hand, generally start out at $100, not counting add-ons and shipping. Because custom-made jeans are designed to fit you, and only you, it is important to make sure that all of the manufacturer's instructions are followed completely. Always make sure you know the company's return policy prior to placing an order.
