INDUSTRY ISSUES
Remaining Committed to Denim Progress and Success in 2026
By Dorothy Crouch, Contributing Writer | January 8, 2026
California Apparel News asked denim-industry experts: What sustainable, transparency, philanthropic, financial, manufacturing, technology or social commitments are you strictly adhering to during 2026 and in what other areas of the denim business will you be more flexible?
The All-American Approach Is Key to Reviving Post’age Denim Brand
After a three-year hiatus, the Post’age denim label is being resurrected, banking on the “Made in USA” element to take it to the top.
Shade 55: The Authentic Roots of Denim
Shade 55 is the name of the deepest indigo color, said designer Paul Hagopian.
New Levi's Shop
Aug. 1 was the official opening day for Levi Strauss & Co.’s new 7,000-square-foot store at 815 Market St. in San Francisco.
New CEO Named at True Religion
At a July 29 special meeting, True Religion shareholders approved the company’s acquisition by TowerBrook Capital Partners at $32 a share, or $824 million.
New Execs at Levi’s US, Europe, Asia and Dockers
San Francisco–based Levi Strauss & Co. added a trio of regional presidents for the Americas, Europe and Asia as part of the company’s effort to “leverage the strength of its global brands.”
Joe's to Acquire Hudson
Joe’s Jeans Inc. signed a deal to acquire Hudson Clothing Holdings Inc. for $97.6 million.
Kingpins’ LA Show Features New Innovations in Denim
The July 9–10 run of the Kingpins boutique denim trade show at the Cooper Design Space in Los Angeles included 44 local and international exhibitors.
Etienne Marcel: So Cal Denim With a French Twist
With roots in France and a base in Los Angeles, Etienne Marcel jeans launched its U.S. business in 2011 after showing at Coterie in New York.
Direct to Consumer: Bluer Denim’s New Business Model
Denim vet's new line is made in US, crowd-funded and sells direct to consumers.
Denim Under Fire: The EU Tax Hike on US-Made Jeans
The European Union recently unexpectedly and drastically raised duties on US-made women’s jeans to 38 percent. Trade officials, industry organizations and manufacturers are working to repeal the tax hike. Stay up to date on the issue here.
The Able Tailor: Denim Fit for All Physical Needs
The Able Tailor was conceived by Stephanie Alves including denim bottoms, sweat pants, jackets, tops and accessories
EU Denim Duty: California Representatives Press Administration to Protect Denim Jobs
California Representatives Lucille Roybal-Allard, Xavier Beccera, Linda Sanchez and Grace Napolitano urge action on the EU's steep duty on US denim.
Obituary: Mel Matsui, 68: Denim Expert Launched Simply Blue, Christopher Blue, Indigo Hand and Pulp Brands
Denim-industry veteran Mel Matsui died on April 12. He was 68.
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