Abstract This paper reviews the intertwined, complicated history of denim jean fabric and how the name came about. This paper also takes a look at how the denim jean fabric has had an impact on society, fashion and culture.
Contents:
Introduction
The Origin of Jeans
Technical Aspects: What is Denim?
The History of Blue Jeans
Impact on Society
Conclusion
From the Paper "There are several sources which ascribe various meanings to the word denim. Many of the source books on the subject state that denim is derived from the English translation of the South of France French phrase 'serge de Nimes'. Denim fashion history has therefore become associated with Serge de Nimes. (Denim Jeans - Fashion History). The Serge de Nimes was originally a wool silk mix, twill weave. There was also fabric which was known as "nim" in France and both these fabrics were composed partly of wool. (A history of Denim)
The word "Jeans" is considered by most source to come from 'Genoese'. This was the name give to Italian sailors in Genoa who "...when at sea dressed in blue fustian fabric composed of a cotton and wool or linen blend." (The Blue Jeans Story) Another European fabric made from a cotton, linen and wool blend "... was known as 'jean' after the sailors of Genoa, Italy, who wore it." (Denim Jeans - Fashion History)"
Abstract The ideology of Jeans in the United States has been changing for decades due to the shift in pop culture. Because of the diversity of American culture, the idea behind the jeans has evolved from hard-working to self identification. The author examines the changing symbolic significance of jeans for American society over time and the symbol they serve for popular culture.
From the Paper "Jeans, or to be exact, blue jeans, have been carrying its very symbolic significance for America over the last 150 years. For the past century and a half, the culture of jeans has changed the ideological symbolism from initial proletarian wardrobes (toughness, independence, and hardworking) in the mid-nineteenth century to modern twenty-first century representation of selfness (uniqueness, individuality, and personal styles). Not only has the ideology changed over time, but the jeans per se, its design, style, embellishment, or even marketing strategy also change from "western-era" plain style emphasizing durability, through "rebellious-period" creative style stressing anti-tradition, to "post-war epoch" advocating casualness, following neck-and-neck along the societal pulsation. Jeans therefore can serve as an accurate barometer of trends in contemporary, now and then, popular cultures."
Abstract Levi Strauss is the number-one maker of brand-name clothing, selling jeans and sportswear under the Levi?s, Dockers, and Slates names in more than 100 countries. This paper examines the challenges faced by Levi Strauss as it vies for a position in the clothing retail business alongside other companies, such as Lee and Wrangler. The paper also offers possible solutions for Levi Strauss.
From the Paper "Although Levi Strauss should be applauded for finally introducing new products to reflect new market trends, the company seems to be spreading itself a big too thin, especially given its current financial situation. The company should do a better job of assessing growth markets and targeting the top two or three opportunities until it gets back on its feet."
Abstract This paper takes a look at the life of Greek author, David Sedaris. According to the paper, Sedaris is one of seven children born to an eccentric mother and a father who holds the position of executive at the IBM corporation. Sedaris is well known for his radio talks, stand-up shows and books.
From the Paper "A great deal of the humor in Naked is aimed at his childhood, including his parents neuroses, life in Southern United States, and trying to find his way as he questioned gender issues. In one scene where he is at camp, the counselor yells, "What are you a bunch of goddamned faggots who can't make your beds?" Sedaris laughed out loud at his stupidity. "If anyone knew how to make a bed, it was a faggot. It was the others he had to worry about." He, and his new-found friend Jason could not protest the word, as that would acknowledge the truth. Instead, the two mocked the counselors and themselves by eventually calling themselves "faggoty faggots."3
Gantz notes that "While in some instances one cannot help but pity his history of chronic difference (''A Plague of Tics'' recounts his snowballing youthful compulsion to count obsessively, roll his eyeballs up into his head, and lick the classroom light switch), his life story is largely a celebration of his successes in attracting the much-desired attention of those around him".
