The space between the hem of a pair of trousers and the shoe is one that has always fascinated us. That ankle zone, despite just being a seemingly innocent area of no sartorial interest is anything but. Not only is it a sock exhibition space, but it’s also crucial in showing of your shoes. Too much loose fabric around there and you’re in danger of getting papped for Jeans & Sheux.
A cuffed jean is the equivalent of putting the term attention to detail on your CV and actually meaning it. Say no to excess fabric and overlooked shoes, say yes to cuffed jeans. Here’s how to cuff jeans and which jeans to try it out on.
Best jeans to cuff
Closed Unity Slim Jeans
Closed can do no wrong when it comes to jeans. The German denim label offers a huge array of cuts, fades and fits, but we're eyeing up the iconic Unity Slim style. Crafted from strong and compact selvedge denim, they feature a hint of light stretch for comfort and ease-of-movement. With their raw denim look and special selvedge detailing, they're a denim die-hard's dream.
Velasca Millesimo Jeans
Velasca's Italian-made Millesmo jeans will remain a firm fixture in your wardrobe for many years to come, thanks to their simple straight-leg silhouette and classic blue wash. Wear them as they are or give them a straightforward single cuff. Team with an unstructured blazer, plain white tee and suede loafers for a smart-casual look that will take you from the office to after work drinks.
ASKET Black Denim Jeans
We’re in capsule wardrobe territory with the black denim jeans from Scandi essentials purveyors, ASKET. Great over a Chelsea boot (as pictured) or even a Cuban heel, this pair are cut from 100% organic cotton 1/3 twill engineered to be comfortable and to last. ASKET’s stay black tech will ensure they do just that, whilst the grey wash will weather over time for a lived-in look. Double cuff them over black boots or rock a single cuff above some sneakers with a casual grey tee. The rock 'n' roll jean choice.
non Relaxed Jean
A company that knows its denim, non make jeans to high standards using sustainably-sourced materials with zero waste initiatives and environmentally conscious production. The brand’s relaxed jean in washed grey selvedge denim is made with a mid-rise, tapered leg and made from half and half recycled and organic cotton. Carefully constructed to be rivet free, the relaxed fit works well with a double cuff.
ISTO. Everyday Denim Jeans
ISTO. has made its first ever pair of men’s denim and it’s a sight to behold in an undyed off-white ecru (‘undyed, not colourless’). Part of the brand’s everyday denim, also available in washed black and blue, the pair are cut from a heavy organic cotton denim twill with a tapered leg. Cuff them once or twice above a desert boot or Wallabee with a summery overshirt up top.
Forét Heath Denim Jeans
These could well be your next favourite pair of comfortable jeans. Purely functional but coming from a place of style and intent. The Heath denim jeans in stone-wash from Forét are made from GOTS-certified organic cotton and stack nicely above a comfortable sneaker. The jeans feature a small logo label, a mid-rise fit and classic five-pocket design. Cuff them once and let the baggy denim stack.
Wax London Slim Fit Jeans
A classic slim fit jean from Wax London that is gagging for a bit of double or pin roll cuffing for some contrast to the dark denim above the ankle. Part of the brand’s debut denim collection, the relaunched slim jean comes in mid-wash or rinse wash and pre-laundered for that effortless worn-in timeless vibe. They’ll happily sit above a pair of Converse or Vans but we prefer a cuff to break things up.
Levi's 501 '54 Jeans
Happy birthday to the Levi’s 501. One of the most iconic pieces of clothing on this planet with a history that transcends subcultures, scenes and generations. The ‘54 is a vintage-inspired classic slim leg jean, with a straight fit in the seat and thigh making it extremely comfortable. Whilst we love the dark indigo rinse in blue, the ‘54 is a blank canvas made for different washes and styling. A simple single cuff is enough to set this pair off.
Check out our pick of the best black jeans for men.
