Akimbo Distressed Faded Light Blue Carhartt Jeans-1990s

A Real Pair With Real History

These jeans aren’t a reproduction. Made by Carhartt in the 90’s and collected and sourced by Akimbo Clothing. If you are considering a couple, you may already be aware of the reasons for this. The denim has some weight. The fade is honest. The light blue wash only occurs after years of wear.

Akimbo began in Salt Lake City and specialised in workwear and sportswear resale in 2019. Over the years we’ve got our hands on quite a few Carhartts. This one is a particular pair of distressed, faded, light blue, ‘90s. It is not a factory perfect clean piece of clothing. It’s not just that.

What you get is actually what you said you wanted.

The denim material is a classic ’90s Carhartt. Sturdy, somewhat stiff initially, but softens with use as modern stretch denim never does. The light blue fade isn’t uniform. Lighter patches are visible on thighs and knees, darker patches are visible around seams. It’s natural wear and not chemical treatment.

The fit would be what Carhartt cut in the 90s, which may be a relaxed or straight leg, likely with a regular rise. It is not placed in the waistbelt, but in the waist. The materials used in the equipment are metallic. The stitching is tonal or contrast (depending on the batch). A woven Carhartt label may be found on the back pocket or it may not. Vintage pieces vary. This is part of your contract.

How to wear these without thinking too much about it.

These jeans perform simply themselves. Simplify the rest. A simple white tee shirt or an Akimbo T Shirt allows the denim to tell the story. When it’s chilly, put on an Akimbo Hoodie or an Akimbo Sweater, anything a bit heavier than denim. If you are looking for a modern outfit, an Akimbo Club graphic piece will do too.

For shoes: chunky sneakers, worn-in boots or canvas shoes are acceptable. Do not go too sleek. Rough around jeans. Lean into that.

Akimbo Sweatpants are another story if you are putting together a complete Akimbo outfit, as these are more for lazy days. Where the workwear roots are apparent is in the Akimbo Jeans line, and this pair of Carhartt is in the middle of it.

Laundering and drying—right or wrong?

Whereas new denim is very durable, vintage denim is not. The fibers have already been used for years. Treat them gently.

Wash cold inside out, by hand or on a gentle cycle. A mild detergent should be used. No bleach. No fabric softener—over time it causes the cotton to break down. Avoid using the dryer. Hang them inside out, out of the sun and allow the air to dry. It is the heat that’s their enemy here. It shrinks cotton and hastens the decay of old cotton material.

Don’t wash if they smell good and don’t look dirty. Spot clean instead. Each wash absorbs a bit of life out of vintage denim.

A Note on Condition

These jeans are from the 90s. They’ve been worn. Some minor marks, slight thinning in stress areas, possibly a few minor repairs. We take any photos that are important. It’s like they say, you get what you pay for. When it comes to those perfect pairs of Carhartts, it’s best to buy new. If you’re in the mood for a pair with a history, this is it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do these jeans run large or small?

The size of vintage Carhartt is different from today’s brands. Look through the measurements given for a pair. Do not assume that your typical size will fit in the same manner.

Will the colour fade more upon washing?

It can, slightly. This wash is already faded, and cold water and air drying will help prevent further fading. More color will be removed from the fabric by hot water and machine drying.

May I send them back if they won’t fit?

Please refer to the product page for our return policy. Vintage items are typically final sale, but if you’re not happy, we don’t want you to be. If there’s a problem, let us know.

What sets Akimbo apart from other vintage shops?

It wasn’t until we had collected and researched a great deal that we began selling. Each of them is carefully selected for construction, historical value and usability. We are not flipping any random thrift store items. We know workwear.

Have other Carhartt products?

Inventory changes constantly. See Akimbo Clothing for available items. For those who know what they want, register for restock.

Final Thoughts

A pair of 1990s Carhartts isn’t everyone’s cup of tea. If you desire a fresh off the rack product that is finished at the factory, this is not it. However, if you are concerned about the origins of your clothes, the way they are produced and how they wear out, you should give this pair a look. It’s all true; the fade, the weight, the history. That’s the goal of Akimbo Clothing: to discover garments such as this and getting them to individuals who get them. Handle them with care, wear them hard and they will continue to tell their story for many years.