DENIM

Big Star: European Heritage, Los Angeles Design and Environmental Philosophy

Established in 1974 in Europe, Big Star denim has been Los Angeles–based since Koos Manufacturing picked up the line in 2003, first as a licensed brand but now as one of Koos’ company-owned trademarks, which also include AG Adriano Goldschmied.

Big Star’s classic styles feature vintage-inspired fabrications and styles.

“The new Big Star collection is unique to its brand philosophy and manufacturing capabilities,” said Senior Designer Ron Balatbat.

The company’s mission for Big Star is to produce a premium-denim line that utilizes state-of-the-art equipment and environmentally friendly processes.

Influenced by Southern California’s ease and coastal vibe, Big Star’s men’s and women’s styles are offered in similar wash techniques ranging from light to dark, with brushed whisking that gives the styles a vintage look. The men’s collection comes in 20 styles and five fits that include a slim fit, straight leg, regular boot and regular straight. Men’s denim shorts feature a Hawaiian hibiscus print. There are 38 women’s styles in 13 fits, including skinny, slim straight, boot, chino, boyfriend and overalls, as well as a denim pencil skirt.

While the look of the denim is important, the company also stands by its craftsmanship and attention to detail, Balatbat said.

“Big Star continues to offer premium denim at accessible price points and is dedicated to delivering timeless pieces for the modern individual,” Balatbat said. “From the start of this union, Koos’ expertise in making jeans and their constant evolution in R&D and production have been Big Star’s greatest asset.”

Big Star’s sustainability efforts include ozone washing and eco dyes, low-water and energy-efficient washing machines, and eco-friendly wash processes, including laser finishing, tying, tacking, grinding and 3-D whiskering.

“Laser technology is probably the most advanced wash process, having the ability to recreate natural wear patterns with unrivaled consistency and efficiency,” Balatbat said.

Denim fabrications ranging from 100 percent cotton to cotton/Lycra and cotton/poly/Lycra blends are sourced domestically and internationally. Big Star is primarily manufactured at the Koos Manufacturing facility in Aguas Calientes, Mexico.

Wholesale price points for jeans start at about $40 and vary depending on level of wash processing, Balatbat said. Other items such as shorts, crops and non-denim bottoms range in price from $33 to $52.

Big Star is currently sold at major retailers such as Nordstrom, Lord & Taylor, Brooklyn Denim Co. and RevolveClothing.com.

For sales information in the U.S, contact Denim Area at (213) 612-0850.