Blue Jeans Aren’t So American Anymore: International Denim Designers Take Over

In my opinion, blue jeans are more American than apple pie (when was the last time you had apple pie, anyway?). But we no longer own this casual classic. And that's a good thing--as designers around the world reinterpret jeans, our denim wardrobe grows bigger, more varied, and infinitely more interesting. We already told you about Radcliffe Denim, the British company that made waistbands sit higher on your back to eliminate thong exposure (skinny jeans go for $179). Now Travel+Leisure clues us in to some other international designers that are making waves in Levi's world:

 
Eco-chic Eurostyle. Kuyichi, a Dutch label, has been clothing Europeans with their sexy and eco-chic denim designs (the company is fair-trade and uses only organic cotton) since 2001. Though Kuyachi does not currently sell its wares in the United States, SheFinds has the hook-up on how to get its great pants, like these Dazzle Jeans ($155). The zip pocket detailing niftily matches the zip detail on the leg cuffs, and the three-quarters length and light color make these pants perfect for spring.

I also love these Vintage Skinny Jeans ($155). They're slightly higher in the back, a detail I increasingly appreciate, and have a flattering slim fit (don't judge them by those unfortunately-matched pink-heeled shoes). 

Levi's, Reinvented. Evisu is a Japanese company that uses Levi-inspired looms in a clear bow to the original gods of denim (the hand-painted back-pocket logo even means "rebirth"). Check out these Geisha Slim Jeans ($289). They're made of super soft cotton, and have a beautiful dark grey wash. See other cute Evisu designs here.

Skinny Stretch. We already love Sweden for handy-dandy Ikea and tasty meatballs, and now there's one more reason: Acne Jeans. Using almost exclusively stretch denim, Acne's jeans fit like a glove, which makes them about as sexy as demin could possibly get. I've been really into black jeans for a while now, so I immediately fell in love with these Needle Black Jeans ($299). The Needle collection is a very tight, very high-waisted, very feminine line, and this black version would make even Olivia Newton John's character in Grease jealous of its bad girl appeal. Acne actually also has a few great non-stretch designs, like these L.U.V. Paper Jeans ($269). This typical Seventies silhouette (the leg is tight down to the thigh and flares out just above the knee to reach full volume at the bottom leg) gives the wearer a perfect fit over the hips and seat.

And for more great jeans, take a peek at our Denim Guide and Celebrity Jeans Guide.