Jean Files: How—and Where—to Score the Best Vintage Denim in Los Angeles, According to Jane Herman

Introduction

From the fit to the feel to the wash, there’s nothing quite like finding a pair of holy grail jeans. Just ask Jane Herman, who’s spent the last 20 years—as an editor, writer, and designer—figuring out all there is to know about denim, both new and vintage.

What Makes a Great Jean?

What makes a great jean? What’s the difference between selvedge and raw denim? What details set a pair of Big Es apart from all other Levi’s made after 1966? Herman decodes all things denim and shares her insights.

Defining Vintage Denim

• Levi’s considers vintage to be anything made before 1971.
• Many believe vintage must be 30 years or older.
• Vintage is about a story and authenticity.

Where to Shop for Vintage Denim in Los Angeles

Denim Doctors

With over 30 years of experience, Denim Doctors is a treasure trove of vintage denim. Owner Zip Stevenson can help you find the perfect fit in minutes.

Denim Revival

Stephan Brovko at Denim Revival is a vintage denim expert who can help you date and identify different denim styles. The store offers a curated selection of unique finds.

Foxhole

Marlow “Fox” Hole offers a personalized vintage shopping experience at Foxhole. Hand-picked vintage items and customizations are available at their Arts District studio.

Lenny

Lenny provides a unique jean tailoring experience where you can create your own custom jeans. Owner Lindsey Davidson works her magic to transform pre-owned jeans into personalized treasures.

Mr. Freedom

Mr. Freedom is a favorite among stylists and designers for its authentic vintage selection. The store offers a range of vintage-inspired pieces and in-house labels.

Reformation Vintage

Reformation Vintage offers a selection of quirky, young-leaning used jeanswear chosen for its style. The store has a bustling atmosphere with unique finds.

RLT

RLT provides a curated vintage experience with a focus on Made in U.S.A. Levi’s. The store offers a clean and accessible shopping environment for vintage denim enthusiasts.

The Dig

The Dig boasts a collection of band tees and quality deadstock sweatshirts, along with a range of vintage denim options. The store’s denim supply is organized with a variety of styles to choose from.

What Goes Around Comes Around

What Goes Around Comes Around offers a collector-level selection of vintage jeans. The store features rare and unique pieces, including premium vintage finds that are sure to impress.

Conclusion

Whether you’re a denim enthusiast or someone looking for a unique vintage piece, Los Angeles offers a diverse range of options for scoring the best vintage denim. From personalized tailoring to curated collections, these stores provide a one-of-a-kind shopping experience for denim lovers.

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