Indi

When INDi added white denim to our product offering just in time for summer, I immediately picked out a style. I ordered a pair of white flares and they were perfect for the versatile climate we have here in the Bay Area. But then, the inevitable happened, I accidentally washed them with some darker clothes and they got dye stains on them. At first I figured all was lost but then it occurred to me – colored jeans are in – why not dye them since they fit so well? After reading the various dye packages at the local craft store I became convinced that even I was crafty enough for this project. And it couldn’t have been easier! This method was so simple in fact that I’m already thinking of more things to dye!

Step 1 Follow the specific directions on the dye you choose but the general method involves adding the dye to very hot water in your bath tub or sink. I chose my sink since I figured the stainless steel and dark counters would be easier to clean up if I made a mess.
Step 2 Add the wet jeans to dye bath and stir them around to make sure the dye penetrates evenly. Make sure to wear gloves so your hands don’t end up matching your pants. Stir continuously. WARNING: The water is hot – I used an old wooden spoon so I wouldn’t burn myself!
Step 3 Leave the jeans in the dye bath for at least 30-50 minutes. Again consult your specific dye for more accurate timing, but a general rule of thumb is the longer the jeans sit in the dye the darker the color will be.
Step 4 Drain the sink and rinse jeans in warm water until the water runs clear. Then machine-wash them by themselves on regular cycle to remove the rest of excess. Dry normally and get ready to wear your brand new colored jeans out on the town!

posted by: Bonnie Coombs on December 14, 2011 at 2:50 pm
filed under:lifestyleDenim 101
TAGS: flare jeans, white jeans, how to

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To sum it up, we at INDI are taking a look at how Katie’s denim style evolved, piece by piece and year by year. In mid-1990’s Katie played it safe—wearing your classic dark jeans with plain t-shirts but by the turn of the millenium, she started experimenting more by dressing her daily denim up with various pieces like pointed shoes and laced up long sleeves. In 2003, Katie debuted an edgy denim look in the movie Pieces of April .

I guess its safe to say by 2008, Katie’s signature style becomes permanent (and popular). At one point, she’s been spotted wearing different versions of the boyfriend jeans—for three days in a row. She was also seen rocking some wide leg jeans —which is also a trend that’s made a huge comeback in the fall. Fast forward to today, this lady has come full circle by recently stepping out with skinny jeans (we think its her best look yet). We cant wait to see what denim style she’ll bring back next!

posted by: Eunice Tanos on September 13, 2011 at 10:33 am
filed under:Denim 101
TAGS: skinny jeans, boyfriend jeans, wide leg jeans, flare jeans

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For women in their 30’s, fit is the most important starting point. If you’re worried about camouflaging wide hips or thighs, go for wide leg jeans that will create a clean line going down from the widest point of your thigh and balance out your proportions. Self-conscious about your tummy? A simple fix is a mid-rise jean, which will give you plenty of coverage and comfort.

But we realize jeans that fit are just the beginning of your whole outfit. The secret to getting a polished look is in the details. Accessories are key! Choose a luxe bag, a printed scarf, or a structured blazer to take your jeans out of weekend mode and make them work for the office or a weeknight dinner date. Add a nice sandal or heel to finish off the look. Here are some of our styling suggestions that we put together using our trouser and bootcut jean:

For Work:

For Play

We want to hear your thoughts! So would you consider wearing denim to work or for a less casual weekend occasion?

posted by: Becca Freeman on August 30, 2011 at 10:10 am
filed under:Denim 101
TAGS: bootcut jeans, trouser jeans

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Labor Day is next week, the traditional “end” of all things white. Whether you follow this style mandate or not, we thought it would be helpful to pass along our tips on how to keep you white jeans looking bright:

1. Check the manufacturer’s label and see what they recommend. For INDI white denim, our label reads “Machine wash cold. Gentle cycle with like colors. Only non-chlorine bleach, when needed. Tumble-dry low. Remove promptly.”

2. If you are going to use bleach follow the directions on the bottle for soaking and then immediately put the white jeans in a full wash cycle with regular detergent.

3. If the detergent you are using already contains bleach make sure to again follow the directions on the bottle and also allow the detergent to mix into the water before adding the white jeans. If possible (I know if you live in an apartment with shared washer/dryer this probably won’t work) let them sit for a few hours before running them through a normal wash cycle.

4. Alkali in detergents, high dryer heat settings, and fabric softeners can all cause your white jeans to yellow. To prevent that from occurring simply make sure all detergent is rinsed out, keep the dyer temperature on low, and avoid using fabric softener.

We think fashion rules are made to be broken, so go ahead, follow these four simple steps to keep your white jeans looking bright and wear them well into Fall!

posted by: Bonnie Coombs on August 22, 2011 at 9:33 am
filed under:Denim 101
TAGS: custom jeans, white jeans

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Add a scarf. Nothing adds color and finishes a look better; worn over a plain shirt with some simple jeans this will make an outfit pop.

Ditch the flip flops. Pull on a pair of riding boots for cooler temps or a pair of wedges when the weather is warm. If you can’t decide just opt for a pair of booties! A nice pair of shoes goes a long way to adding to an outfit.

Accessorize! Just like a scarf, some nice statement jewelry makes your simple basics look like a backdrop instead of boring.

So what are your thoughts, do you have any go-to secrets to take your jeans from plain to stylish?

posted by: Bonnie Coombs on August 11, 2011 at 11:24 am
filed under:Denim 101
TAGS: skinny jeans

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Beach
What’s more perfect than a sunset stroll on the beach? Pair a loose, colorful tank with rolled white jeans and simple sandals or bare feet. You’ll be able to pull off laid back and stylish.

All images courtesy of Polyvore

Mountains
Some distressed jeans tucked into a pair of good hiking boots go perfectly with a t-shirt and light cardigan. Keep accessories light, and don’t forget water!

All images courtesy of Polyvore

State Fair
Light, vintage wash jeans paired with a skinny belt and woven flats are perfect for the fair. Top it all off with a light lacy blouse and you’re ready for a Ferris wheel ride.

All images courtesy of Polyvore

Museums
Use the weekend to finally see that exhibit you’ve been thinking about for months. Head indoors in a classic pair of rinse bootcut jeans and a structured sleeveless blouse and get your art fix.

All images courtesy of Polyvore

Those were some of our ideas for adventures in Northern California, but what are some of your weekend plans?

posted by: Bonnie Coombs on July 13, 2011 at 12:23 pm
filed under:Denim 101
TAGS: skinny jeans, distressed denim, bootcut jeans

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Whether you plan on checking out the music scene on Filmore, shopping on Union Square or walking around Golden Gate Park, when deciding on what to pair your jeans with, don’t be afraid to mix and match. Pick a handful of bold and bright pieces to work into your wardrobe and choose to pack a pair of dark rinse jeans since you can get more use out of them. It’s possible to get by with only one pair when traveling but if you’re staying longer than a week and if you really like wearing jeans, you might want to pack more—in different leg styles. Here’s our suggestion, some pieces to include along with your jeans:

Destination: San Francisco

We love the look of a plaid buttoned shirt paired with flare jeans like the girl on the far right spotted on Filmore. Another thing you could try is pair your jeans with a lacey top to add dimension. Summer is also the perfect time to break out your nautical inspired pieces, you can complete your sailor-esque look with a fedora hat and skinny jeans like this girl on Union Square in the middle. Remember San Francisco is a foggy city so pairing your jeans with layers is key. If you need more advice on the best jeans for travel click here

posted by: Eunice Tanos on June 29, 2011 at 10:40 am
filed under:Denim 101
TAGS: custom jeans, dark jeans

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Yoke
The v-shaped section at the back of jeans below the waistband is called the yoke or riser. This fabric adds curve to the seat, so the deeper the v-shape the greater the curve. This will vary on INDI jeans depending on your individual measurements.

Belt loops
To wear or not to wear a belt? That is the stylish question.

Back rise
The distance from the crotch to the top of the back waistband is the back rise. This measurement is longer than the front rise because it has a little more to go over, if you know what I mean.

Embroidery
Back pocket embroidery can be used to advertise the jeans brand, as many now have iconic designs. However, use embroidery wisely, a little goes a LONG WAY to making a statement.

Seat Area
This area is the back of the jean including the back pockets; think of it as the “part of the jean you sit on”. Since INDI jeans are custom, this area will vary depending on your personal booty.

Leg Opening
This is the width of the jeans at the hem. At INDI you can choose a leg opening, so whether the skinny leg alarms you or the bootcut is too boring, there’s a leg style for everyone.

Hope this helps simplify everyone’s favorite clothing item. Now that you can define the parts of the jean, design your own!

posted by: Bonnie Coombs on June 23, 2011 at 8:48 am
filed under:Denim 101
TAGS:

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