Distressed

What does Distressed mean?

A style of denim that are given a vintage worn look through manufacturing processes. This is to give the denim a look similar to that found in raw denim that has been broken in by the wearer.

Heddels explains Distressed

Many manufacturers purposely fade and age their denim to give it a vintage, worn look through methods such as stone washing, enzyme washing, acid washing, sandblasting, emerizing, and microsanding.

With distressed jeans, these processes are taken to an extreme, fraying hems and seams, creating intense whiskers and fading, and evening ripping and tearing the denim. However, denim that comes pre-distressed does not mold to your body in the same way as raw denim.

Additional Resources

Here is an example of distressed denim:

Heddels Definitions - Distressed Denim