The Influence of Technology on Denim

October 21 2024
The Influence of Technology on Denim
Denim is always on the move. From day one when it was used as a true workwear garment there were innovations to make the best possible pants. One of the key aspects of these miner pants in the mid-1800s was the invention of the rivet. This small copper nail strengthens the pants so they last longer. It shook the industry and became the standard. Even now 150 years after its introduction, it's still there, and impossible to think about jeans without the rivet.
Wouter MunnichsOctober 21 2024

Denim is always on the move. From day one when it was used as a true workwear garment there were innovations to make the best possible pants. One of the key aspects of these miner pants in the mid-1800s was the invention of the rivet. This small copper nail strengthens the pants so they last longer. It shook the industry and became the standard. Even now 150 years after its introduction, it's still there, and impossible to think about jeans without the rivet. Another milestone era within denim history started when people requested to have a pair of jeans with a vintage or distressed look. Factories and washing houses started to develop techniques to give a pair a worn-out look. One of the most popular and groundbreaking techniques was stone-washing. Stones, bleach, and water were used to give jeans a more vintage look instead of the mostly available rigid jeans. Taking care of Mother Nature The last decennia technology went sky-high as everyone was aware that we need to take more responsibility for Mother Nature. We need more initiative and care to create a better tomorrow. Therefore, some techniques were eliminated that were the standard, and working on new innovations for a more sustainable approach was key. Over time, technology has significantly transformed the denim industry from the production of new denim fabrics to the production of a pair of jeans, but also the interaction with consumers. While denim fabrics were used to be made with the authentic indigo-dye technique, water, and chemicals, new ways are foam dyeing and laser techniques. New ways to add indigo on the yarns in the production process and laser techniques to add a wear pattern on jeans. All these kinds of techniques are based on reducing the usage and using fewer chemicals. All in all a more eco-friendly production way that produces also less waste in the end. Also, recycling has become more standard due to technology. Old pairs of jeans can be used to shred into new fibers so they will be ready for a new pair. And less chemicals are used as well during farming so there are more organic fibers available. Even denim producers are beginning to incorporate bio-engineered fibers and nanotechnology into denim. Resulting in fabrics with self-cleaning properties, moisture-wicking capabilities, and stain resistance. These new technologies are all focused on a quicker production process making less impact on the environment. Work Smarter For A Better Tomorrow Next to these new technologies, working smarter and better is also needed for a better tomorrow. Therefore the usage of a different mindset was needed and more automation was implemented in the production process. Think of robots cutting fabrics and even parts of stitching elements of jeans. Using this kind of technique can improve a faster workload in general, but it makes it also more easy and comfortable for the workers in the factory. It's the same with Artificial Intelligence, designers can see way faster different options if something will work in the end. From creative input to making samples to avoid using more prototypes and wasting time. Also creating visual designs are becoming more the standard to showcase new developments and collections to brands and retailers. The consumer technology As e-commerce became booming, the technology is approved on the consumer experience side as well. Online shopping platforms provide online fitting possibilities so consumers will see in the blink of an eye how it will look on them or how you can match it with other styles from the shop. This results in fewer returns in the end, so less transport is needed. A good example is that it’s a better shopping experience vs taking care of the planet. Blockchain technology is also used more often. With just a simple scan with your phone gives you access to the passport of your jeans. You can see where your jeans were made, where the cotton comes from, and where it was produced. This makes it also interesting for the future so you can easily track the full history of a vintage pair for example. The future of denim will be focused on technology That technology has reshaped the industry is just a fact. And that the future of denim will be focused on technology is another fact. It will be improved, and easier to use so everyone can act faster and better. All to clean the industry. To make it greener. Always with a touch of blue of course. As said in the beginning, denim is always on the move! Calik Denim’s approach on technology on denim Calik Denim uses technology in their Spring Summer 2026 by redefining denim by merging elasticity, authenticity and comfort. With an innovative design, the new collection introduces transformative fabrics that emphasize sustainability and versatility. The collection offers an evergreen wardrobe with a multitasking attitude. With this new collection, step into the future with confidence, knowing this collection builds collective wellness through symbiosis with the environment.

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