Okay, I'm ready to try this "no wash" thing. I was in TJ Maxx today and found a pair of Levi 501's. They were irregulars (there's a nigh-invisible thread mis-stitch across the thigh), so they were only $20. They had a 2nd pair in my size in a slightly lighter color (flaw is some threads poking out from the watch pocket, and hidden
inside the front pocket). Not a bad haul for $40 even without trying this experiment.
I've no idea if these are raw denim, selvedge, whatever. They are as dark as the jeans I once wore as a kid, when it was the only color available. Honestly, that's part of my skepticism. That yellow tinge that you guys sigh over and cheap manufacturers overdo just reminds me of all the filthy unwashed jeans people wore in West Virginia. Not because they were fashionable, but because they were lazy, poor and dirty. I'll wash them long before that happens.
The color on this photo is a bit off, they're really much darker. The jeans are too long in length, 32's when I normally wear a 29 or 30. Should I hem them? Roll cuffs? Should I wait until they're broken in a little? Can this be done with the other pair (that actually is more reminiscent of that photo), or is it strictly for the darkest denim?
I'll read back through the thread for more info. Any links for instructions, advice, etc. is appreciated.