Today, blue jeans are a wardrobe essential. Classic, versatile, and timeless, it seems like they've always been that way. But did you know that the first jeans weren't blue? The story of fashion's most iconic color begins more than five centuries ago in the port of Genoa, Italy .
The origins: from the sea to fashion
In the mid-15th century, the Genoese created a durable , 100% cotton fabric, originally intended for ship sails and sailors' clothing. It was a strong, long-lasting fabric, perfect for withstanding hard work. This fabric was known as "jeane" or "génois," depending on the language; hence the word "jean."
However, there was a small problem: the fabric was born white , which made it very practical for sails… but not very functional for work clothes. Sailors and laborers easily soiled their garments, and cleaning white cotton was no easy task.
The discovery of the color indigo
Seeking a solution, the Genoese found the answer in a natural dye from India: indigo , extracted from the indigo plant. This pigment, with its intense blue hue, adhered well to cotton and, moreover, had a very particular advantage: it did not completely penetrate the fibers , so over time it wore down unevenly, creating that "washed-out" effect that we love so much today.
From that moment on, jeans ceased to be white and became the iconic indigo blue we all recognize. Thus was born "blue jeans," an expression that over time transformed simply into " blue jeans ."
From workwear to global icon
What began as a practical solution for seafarers ended up conquering the entire world. First, in the 19th century, with American miners and pioneers seeking durable clothing. And later, in the 20th century, when jeans became a symbol of freedom, rebellion, and style .
Today, denim blue is not just a color: it's an attitude, a history, and a tradition that continues to evolve with fashion, but without losing its essence.
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