Gray Matter

This article is from the archive of The New York Sun before the launch of its new website in 2022. The Sun has neither altered nor updated such articles but will seek to correct any errors, mis-categorizations or other problems introduced during transfer.

The New York Sun

A new crop of gray jeans, available in a range of shades and silhouettes, offers stylish alternatives to denim in classic blues and basic black. Highlights from shop shelves include offerings from the dry-aged denim line, James Jeans, and from an organic jeans label, Loomstate. The straight-leg “Tom” ($186) by James Jeans features black stitching and is constructed with “elastic memory,” meaning it will hold its shape even after several days of wear — a plus for those who essentially live in their jeans. The label’s edgier “James” ($182) model is slightly distressed, and adorned with a pattern of tiny bronze grommets along the rear pockets. A darker version of those jeans, with similar pocket details — the style is called the “Nirvana” ($194) — is treated with resin for a sophisticated, low-sheen finish. From Loomstate, there’s the “Genesis” ($135–$168) — a super-skinny silhouette, held together by lovely lime-colored thread. (As with all of the 99% cotton denim from the company, caring for these jeans demands a cold wash and drying by clothesline when possible.) For blue denim stalwarts convinced the gray jean is the sole domain of Pabst-swilling, artsy types, other brands such as Habitual have designed styles in more delicate gray hues and elegant cuts. These patrician styles evoke “gray gardens” as opposed to their gunmetal gray counterparts. Habitual’s light gray “Skinny Glory” ($196) with its modest flare is nearly white, without appearing ashen. Meanwhile, the pale gray “McKenzie” ($220), from the Raven jeans line, combines the appearance of tailored trousers with the comfort of denim. There is something of-the-moment about a gray tapered leg, especially when paired with black or metallic accents. A set of black leather opera gloves and a pair of lace-up demi-boots or menswear-inspired spectator shoes for fall and winter are the perfect accessories to transform gray jeans from street wear to a fitting part of an out-on-the-town ensemble.

[1] “James,” James Jeans, $182 (Barneys New York, 660 Madison Ave. between 60th and 61st streets, 212-826-8900 and Bloomingdales, 1000 Third Ave., between 59th and 60th streets, 212-705-2000); [2] “Nirvana,” James Jeans, $192; [3] Loomstate (Barneys New York), $135 and up.


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