Ever since it was first introduced sometime in the nineteenth century, denim has always been at the forefront of fashion. If you think about it, you’re bound to have a pair or three of denims in your clothes cupboard right now, some from high end fashion houses as well. The quintessential blue denim is ever popular but today, denim has embraced so much more- colors, cuts, looks and styles.From boyfriend jeans to vintage denim, denim is timeless. Buy a roll of denim, get out your trusty sewing machine and get started! Before we proceed, let’s talk of a few basics.
Denim is a tougher material than cotton so a regular machine will not do. You want a machine that is tough-think metal, not plastic- and has a special needle specifically for denim. A hand cranked machine may not be as effective as a foot operated machine. This will ensure your denim stays in place as you stitch. A strong motor is a must because denim requires strength. Do make sure that your machine has a wide variety of stitches available from the cool zig zag and long length stitches. The zig zag is necessary to keep your stitches in place, so it’s not just cool but functional as well. There are sewing machine brands specific to jeans, for instance, Singer and Toyota. Invest in one that can do more than just stitch denim- makes sense in the long run.
Now, let’s take a look at some cool glam denim fashion ideas.
More than jeans
While denim is mostly associated with jeans, there is a lot you can do with the material. Versatile as it is, it lends itself to all sorts of fashion. For instance, think of denim dungarees. This hard-working outfit can be given a touch of oomph with patchwork pockets and a contrasting t-shirt. Roll up your dungarees, pair it up with a pair of heels or wear your favorite ballet slippers. Or cut your dungarees and make them into shorts for those warm summer days. It’s all good when denim is in play.
Tops
Denim shirts are comfortable and hardy. Make them with sleeves or without, short or long. Decorate the shirt with embroidery or lettering or do smocking stitches to give it a peasant blouse appearance. Knot it around the waist or under the bust and you’re bound to turn heads. A jacket is a great idea as well. Rhinestones and glitter go well on a short jacket. Remember, less is more, so go easy on the shine.
Skirts
A short ruched skirt or a long classic one-denim skirt is truly a class apart. Give it a slit on the side or the back for ease of movement. Pair it with a long beaded chain and a plain colored shirt and you’re good to go.
Once you’re more comfortable with your stitching, think about other cool things to do with this material. Hats and caps, heels, shoes and flats, even swimsuits and innerwear. A denim dress with a minimalistic pattern is also a great fashion statement. Go glam with denim!
