A SHORT HISTORY OF DENIM (c) 2007 Lynn Downey Levi Strauss & Co

Denim is more than just a cotton fabric; it inspires strong opinions within the hearts of

historians, designers, teenagers, movie stars, reporters and writers. Interest bordering on

passion can be found among textile and costume historians today, especially in the debate

over the true origins of denim. These experts have put decades of work into their research;

here are summarized the prevailing opinions about the birth of denim, followed by a

discussion of the way Levi Strauss & Co. has helped to contribute to denim’s movement

around the world.

In 1969 a writer for American Fabrics magazine declared, “Denim is one of the world’s

oldest fabrics, yet it remains eternally young.” If continuous use of and interest in an item

makes it “eternally young” then denim certainly qualifies. From the 17th century to the

present, denim has been woven, used and discarded; made into upholstery, pants and

awnings; found in museums, attics, antique stores and archaeological digs; worn as the

fabric of hard honest work, and as the expression of angry rebellion; used for the sails of

Columbus’ ships in legend; and worn by American cowboys in fact.

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