Deadstock denim: the fabric and cut of Drifter GT
Deadstock refers to unused fabric that is no longer needed for its original purpose. For Drifter GT, we use dark blue deadstock denim made from 100% cotton. Turquoise seams curve from the back towards the front, shaping the jeans.
What deadstock tells you about a fabric
Deadstock fabric has already been produced but is no longer being used for its original purpose. It may include production surpluses or fabric that was ordered but not taken up. It does not need to have been worn or made into a garment first.
“Deadstock” describes stock, not a fibre. It can be cotton, wool or other materials. For Drifter GT, we state the composition separately: deadstock denim made from 100% cotton. The word deadstock alone would not tell you that.
How it differs from a corset made from old jeans
For Drifter GT existing denim fabric is used to make new jeans. For Waisted Talent the starting material was a finished pair of jeans, taken apart and remade into a corset.
The terms describe different things: deadstock tells you where the material comes from, while upcycling refers to remaking it into a new design. Deadstock fabric is not automatically made from recycled fibres.
Drifter GT: curved seams instead of a straight sideline
The turquoise contrast seams on Drifter GT curve from the back towards the front. Along these curved panels, the seam replaces a conventional straight side seam. The line is therefore part of the pattern, rather than simply a decorative addition.
The jeans have a mid-rise waist and a straight, wide, extra-long leg. There are inset pockets at the front; asymmetrically curved back pockets echo the seam lines. Small rivets sit at the curves of the pockets. Turquoise thread makes these lines stand out against the dark blue denim.
Drifter GT: fabric, fit and care
The denim is 100% cotton, with no elastane listed in the composition. When choosing your size, consider the stated measurements and the intended roomy fit. The extra-long leg is also part of the design and should be checked against your measurements.
Wash the jeans inside out at 30°C with similar colours. Do not bleach or tumble dry. The care instructions allow ironing on a medium setting and dry cleaning. You will find the size chart and advice on the product page.
What using existing fabrics can achieve
Using deadstock means making a new garment from existing stock. It does not automatically mean that the garment saves a particular amount of water or CO₂. That would require considering the origins, processing and transport of the specific material.
The European Environment Agency identifies long use, reuse and design for repair as important approaches for textiles. Material sourcing is one part of the picture. Fit, construction and care also influence how long a garment can actually be worn.
Frequently asked questions
Is deadstock denim a used fabric?
Not necessarily. Here, deadstock refers to unused stock. Previously worn jeans remade into another garment are a different starting material, as with the Waisted Talent corset.
Is Drifter GT made from stretch denim?
The listed composition is 100% cotton, with no elastane. The roomy cut provides the relaxed fit. Compare your measurements with the size chart when choosing your size.
Sources and further reading
More from the Journal
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Made to order means we make an existing design after you place your order. You choose from the available sizes; this does not automatically include a made-to-measure service. The delivery time also allows for production.
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