Dish and DU/ER Debuts Never Fade Pants
One thing all black jeans have in common, unfortunately, is that they fade. This problem remained at the forefront of Canadian brand Dish and DU/ER’s mind when they decided to make a move towards no-fade black pants.
Robin Rowley, Dish & DU/ER marketing director, knows a thing or two about denim. She admits to owning “a rotating cast of at least 25.” Rowley began her stint in fashion at custom menswear brand, Indochino, where she led their public relations department.
Now Rowley works for Dish & DU/ER, which recently debuted a new line of black pants featuring Never Fade fabric, which ensures that the black color stays black. The brand utilized Lenzing Modal® BLACK, which uses color locking technology built in at the fiber production level, compared to the yarn level in traditional dyeing.
Rowley said fading was identified as the biggest problem for their customers. The brand chose Lenzing Modal® BLACK for it soft touch, solution dyed technology and the sustainable manufacturing process. “The sustainability story was important as we continue to develop and expand the line as it speaks to our mission to produce goods ethically,” Rowley said.
The brand’s Never Fade collection features three styles: Tuxedo, Chino and Skinny, to stay on trend and remain adaptable to different aesthetics.
“The Skinny is the classic, minimalist black pant that can be styled up or down and worn anywhere,” said Rowley. “The Tuxedo updates the Skinny with fashion details like tuxedo side panels and front pocket locking zippers to add a bit of pop. The Chino is a flattering silhouette for the woman who needs a bit more structure in her work pant.”
Lenzing Modal® BLACK also ensures the wearer a level of softness unparalleled in the denim world. The line offers both style and sustainability by using 50 percent less water and energy. Sustainability remains an important aspect for the brand.
“We’ve always been driven by sustainability, because we want to create versatile, comfortable pieces that last longer and do more so that people can buy (and discard) less,” said Rowley. “We’re always investigating ways to become more sustainable.”
The jeans retail for $119 online and in select retailers in the U.S. and Canada.
Carved in Blue: Do you use Lenzing fibers in other ways?
Robin: We follow what Lenzing does at a fiber development level, as well as keeping taps on their sustainability story. We are looking at expanding out TENCEL® into other fabrics and categories for future seasons.
Carved in Blue: What were your first pair of jeans?
Robin: I’m sure I’d had denim gifted as a kid, but the first pair I remember buying for myself was a pair of JNCOs. I dragged my parents to Seattle to find the right wash with the right leg opening. It was the 90’s!
Carved in Blue: How would you describe your own style?
Robin: Minimalist, layered, a little rugged.
Carved in Blue: With all the denim brands out there, what makes your pants stand out from the rest?
Robin: The combination of style and performance. You can dress our denim up, wear it anywhere and feel great about it, but you just as easily wear it out for a hike or a bike. Our jeans are more comfortable than any I’ve ever worn. I’ve given away 90 percent of my other denim since I joined the Dish & DUER team.
Carved in Blue: What does Carved in Blue mean to you?
Robin: The importance of denim’s legacy and innovation.