Denim Done Right: How to Distress Your Jeans Like a Pro

Denim Done Right: How to Distress Your Jeans Like a Pro

by Bryan Leon

Ripped jeans are a wardrobe staple, but achieving that perfectly distressed look can be tricky. Sandpaper snags, uneven tears, and holes that just look plain sloppy – these are the "disasters" we want to help you avoid! Here at ON PATCH, we're all about denim done right. That means high-quality materials, expert craftsmanship, and of course, the ability to personalize your jeans for a look that's uniquely you.

Why Do We Distress Our Jeans?

Forget crisp, brand new jeans gathering dust in your closet. Growing up in the concrete jungle of New York City, ripped jeans were the a staple to any outfit. Each rip, a battle scar from a wild night out or from an unforgettable day of cracking jokes with friends. Our parents might've seen them as neglected, but for us, they were trophies. The deeper the fade, the more worn the knees, the more they whispered tales of our adventures. Playground Jeans were born from this very spirit. Inspired by our co-founder's childhood adventures in Beijing, these jeans are a replica pulled from faded photos and worn memories. They're not just denim; they're a chance to wear a piece of his story, and maybe, write a bit of your own on them.

How Do I Distress My Jeans?

Here are a few techniques to achieve different levels of wear and tear:

  • The Subtle Sand: Grab a fine-grit sandpaper and gently buff areas you want to show a hint of wear, like the knees, pockets, or thighs. Be light-handed!

  • The Precise Placement: Want a more controlled distressed look? Use a razor blade or a seam ripper to create small, clean cuts. This technique works well for adding rips along the knee or leg seam.

  • The Rugged Rub: For a more rugged aesthetic, use a pumice stone to rub areas you want to distress. This creates a frayed and worn-in effect.

Pro Tips for Distressing Success:

  • Less is More: Start slow and assess the damage as you go. You can always add more distressing, but you can't take it away!
  • Protect the Rest: Place cardboard inside the leg of your jeans to prevent accidentally ripping the back when distressing the front.
  • Embrace the Asymmetry: Don't strive for perfectly mirrored rips. Natural-looking distress is all about a touch of asymmetry.
  • Wash and Wear: After distressing, wash your jeans according to the care label. This will help soften the distressed areas and create a more natural look.

What Are The Best Distressed Jeans?

The distressed denim look is in, but who has the time for DIY? We've got you covered! Check out our picks for the best pre-distressed jeans on the market, offering a variety of styles and washes.

  1. Acne Studios - Loose Fit Jeans - 2021M 
  2. Kapital - Distressed Denim 
  3. Diesel - Straight Jeans 1996 D-Sire 09h58
  4. RRL - Straight Fit Hawley Selvedge Jean
  5. Maison Margiela - Dirty Jeans
  6. Nudie Jeans - Blue Rad Rufus Jeans
  7. Our Legacy - Blue Third Cut Jeans
  8. Rick Owens DRKSHDW - Black Detroit Jeans
  9. Ksubi - Blue Anti K Punk Jeans
  10. R13 - Blue D'Arcy Jeans