Photography: Luke Abiol
Self Edge is a brand of men’s clothes that believes a man’s denim should be as charismatic as his walk, watch, and hand shake. They do everything the vintage way, with the authentic machines of the ’30s and ’40s, which in the case of denim means it involves a bit more passion, patience and tenacity… but offers a greater payoff.
What makes their process of doing denim so fantastic? And why did comedians Bobby Lee, Nick Youssef, Dean Delray and Kevin Christy cross the road… to model with Self Edge for their new “Between the Lines” lookbook?
We ask the husband and wife team behind the brand, Kiya and Demitra Babzani:
Urbasm: What was the inspiration behind using comedians in your latest lookbook?
Kiya Babzani: I feel that there aren’t many art forms left which are as raw, unedited, and human as stand-up comedy. There is a realness to it which is the same reason I believe many people stay away from smaller stand-up shows; it makes them uncomfortable seeing a person on stage work through new material. It’s this visceral nature of stand-up comedy that is exciting.
Photography: Luke Abiol
Urbasm: What is the kind of attention to detail that most denim manufacturers are missing today?
KB: I don’t think it’s something that’s missing, I believe it’s restraint that is missing in today’s denim industry.
Urbasm: What is the advantage of using old manufacturing techniques when it comes to making a quality denim product?
KB: Old machines work differently; they have inherent flaws within them which were worked out as time went on. Modern machinery is nearly perfect. With that perfection you’ve wiped clean so much of the character that’s contained with the fabrics and construction of a 5-pocket jean.
Urbasm: What is your top 10 list of Self Edge products that every man should have in his closet to be well rounded and ready for just about anything?
Photography: Luke Abiol
KB: Ten is too many. Realistically, you don’t need a deep closet to have a well rounded casual arsenal of clothing for everyday wear.
- A good, simple, 5-pocket jean made of a raw selvedge denim with minimal branding.
- The perfect t-shirt, without prints or a check pocket. Triple-Needle construction stitching on the collar is a small detail i’ve always loved on vintage t-shirts or new reproductions by Japanese brands.
- A denim jacket. It’s the perfect layering piece and works great with just a tee underneath or even a flannel.
- A heavy flannel shirt that can be worn as an overshirt or a light jacket that’s good for all seasons.
- A piece of original fine jewelry, whether that be a ring, bracelet, or necklace. It’s a fun way to add something to your outfit without putting on more clothing.
Urbasm: What are your three best fashion tips that every man should know?
Photography: Luke Abiol
KB: Don’t over do it; Don’t be afraid of jewelry, and don’t skimp on the things which are not easily seen.
Get better acquainted with Self Edge here.
About Dr. Eric J. Leech
Eric has written for over a decade. Then one day he created Urbasm.com, a site for every guy.
About Dr. Eric J. Leech