Cotton Jeans vs. Denim Jeans — What's the Difference?

Cotton jeans refer to any jeans made from cotton fabric, which can vary in texture, weight, and finish. They are prized for their natural feel, breathability, and comfort, making them suitable for a wide range of climates and activities. Denim jeans, on the other hand, are a subset of cotton jeans made from a specific type of cotton fabric called denim. Denim is characterized by its twill weave, which creates a diagonal ribbing pattern, making it exceptionally durable and resistant to wear and tear.

Denim's unique manufacturing process involves dyeing the warp threads indigo while leaving the weft threads white, which gives denim jeans their iconic blue color and the white interior. This method also contributes to the distinctive fading patterns that develop with wear, particularly in areas of stress or friction. Cotton jeans made from other types of cotton fabric may not exhibit the same fading characteristics or durability as those made from denim.

The term "jeans" traditionally refers to pants made from denim, highlighting the garment's workwear origins and its evolution into a staple of casual and fashion wear. While all denim jeans are cotton jeans (since denim is a type of cotton fabric), not all cotton jeans are denim jeans, as the cotton used can range from lightweight varieties to heavy-duty twills, excluding denim.

Despite their differences, both types of jeans offer versatility and a wide range of styling options. The choice between cotton jeans and denim jeans often comes down to personal preference for texture, durability, and the specific look or feel one desires from their jeans.

Cotton jeans offer a broad category of garments made from various cotton fabrics, while denim jeans specify pants made from denim, offering unique characteristics like durability, distinctive fading, and the classic blue color associated with traditional jeans.