Fading patterns for denim:

Patterns of fading

We’ve mentioned numerous times across many posts about fades (we’ve even carved out our very own Fade Friday), but have never actually put in the time to talk a little bit about subject.  Not that a super long post is really needed, for those unfamiliar with fades, we figured it’s worthwhile to delve into the topic every so often.

Everyone has different approaches to how you should actually achieve surreal fade patterns, so we won’t get into that here.  In this post we’ll cover the two basic types of fades that you’ll usually see with all raw denim – Whiskers/Hige and Honeycombs.

Fades caused by prolonged periods of wear, without washing, have become the main allure for raw denim. The fading patterns are a way of personalizing the garment for each customer. These fades are categorized by certain names: 

• Whiskers – Faded streaks that surround the crotch area of the denim.

• Combs – Also known, as “honey combs” are the streaks of faded lines that are found behind the knee.

• Stacks – Produced by having the inseam of the denim hemmed a few inches longer than actual leg length. The extra fabric stacks on top of the shoe causing a fade to form around the ankle to calf area of the denim.

• Train Tracks – appears on the outseams of the denim. This fade showcases the selvedge by forming two sets of fades that resemble train tracks.

Compared to honey combs, whiskers, stacks, or wallet fades, train tracks are a more uncommon fade that occurs along the outseams of the jeans. As the denim wears, the outlines of the selvedge will be become more apparent, forming two sets of lines that resemble train tracks running up either leg.

As the outseams do not undergo as much stress and wear as other areas of denim, it is difficult to achieve this particular fade. Like anything, however, it is not impossible. To facilitate train tracks fades, consider flattening the outseam before you start wearing it.