Sizing + Care Guide

VALLEY DENIM CARE PHILOSOPHY

Vintage denim was made to last.

The best way to honor vintage denim is by caring for every piece thoughtfully to preserve character while extending its life for years to come.

Our philosophy is simple:

Wear often. Wash thoughtfully. Repair when possible. Recycle or Upcycle.

Should You Wash Vintage Denim?

Yes, but not after every wear. Frequent washing can cause:

• Fading
• Loss of natural texture
• Fabric wear and tear
• Excessive water and energy use

Denim that is never washed can accumulate dirt, oils, and debris that gradually weaken the cotton fibers over time. Most denim experts now recommend washing only when needed rather than avoiding washing altogether. 

For most people, washing every 8–10 wears (or whenever your denim becomes visibly dirty or develops an odor) is a good balance. Spot cleaning small marks between washes can help extend the time between full washes. 

We Love the Feel of Freshly Washed Denim

One thing we personally love about vintage denim is how it changes throughout its lifetime.

A fresh wash can bring back structure while also softening the cotton over time. As you wear your denim, it will gradually mold to your body again, creating a fit that's uniquely yours.

Rather than trying to keep denim perfectly rigid forever, we believe the best vintage tells the story of being lived in and loved.

Our Recommended Care

When your denim is ready for a wash:

• Turn inside out
• Wash in cold water to prevent shrinkage
• Use a mild detergent or a denim detergent if you can
• Wash with similar colors avoiding red and white in case of color transfer
• Lay flat to air dry when possible
• If you just need a quick refresh, try our favorite antibacterial denim refresher spray, Antiwash

Avoid:

• bleach
• fabric softener
• high heat
• frequent tumble drying

These simple habits help preserve the color, fit, and integrity of vintage cotton.

Spot Clean First

For small spills or stains, you usually don't need to wash the entire garment.

A damp cloth and mild soap are often enough to clean the affected area while helping preserve the rest of the fabric.

Sustainability Starts With Longevity

The most sustainable garment is the one that's already in your closet.

Choosing vintage already extends the life of existing clothing and caring for it extends that life even further.

Washing less frequently, using cold water, air drying, and repairing rather than replacing all help reduce the environmental impact of your wardrobe while allowing each piece to develop its own character over time. Simple care habits and repairs when needed can make a big difference in keeping our clothes out of landfills.