The art of custom jeans production

Made-to-measure jeans offer an innovative production model distinct from conventional methods. This approach eliminates deadstock and ensures that only what is needed is produced and sold, thereby reducing the environmental and social impact of clothing. We initiated our custom jeans production by applying the same principles used in fabric production, aiming to bring our vision for a more responsible denim industry directly to consumers. Discover more about this process in the following paragraphs.

The Candiani Custom experience for made-to-measure jeans

We launched our custom jeans production in 2021. Candiani Custom, located in the Candiani Denim Store at Piazza Mentana 3, Milan, is the first urban micro-factory for made-to-measure jeans, operating on a manufacturer-to-consumer model that cuts intermediaries and delivers Candiani’s textile innovations directly to the wearers. This marked a significant shift for us; for over 80 years, we had exclusively produced fabrics for other jeans makers. Now, for the first time, we were reaching final consumers with garments that bear the Candiani name.

We offer more than just products; we provide a full experience that helps our customers understand the intricacies of jeans production and appreciate the true value of the garments. By designing their jeans firsthand, our clients develop a connection to them and are motivated to make them last as long as possible through practices like repair, upcycling, and reuse. This commitment to longevity embodies the first principle of responsible consumption and the circular economy. That’s also why we offer classic fits that don’t follow seasonal trends, so they can stand the test of time.

Furthermore, our micro-factory aims to present an alternative to current production models. Clients can meet the people who will craft their jeans and observe the manufacturing process through a viewing window. This approach ensures that our garments are sold and likely consumed where they are produced, rather than the prevalent practice of manufacturing clothing in lower-cost countries. Additionally, the materials and technologies used in our micro-factory are sourced from within a 238 km radius in Italy, facilitating an easy-to-trace, low-impact supply chain that helps reduce the carbon footprint of our jeans. We also use biodegradable, compostable, recyclable, or reusable materials to ensure minimal environmental impact at the end of their lifecycles. Finally, by producing jeans on demand, we eliminate overproduction.

From fabric to fit: the steps of customization

Our clients can design their custom-made jeans with the help of our experienced team. As long-standing producers of high-quality denim, we prioritize our fabrics. The fabrics used for our tailored denim are produced in Robecchetto con Induno, where our mill has been operating since 1938, approximately 40 km from our Candiani Custom micro-factory.

Our denim selection features indigo, black, and ecru fabrics, available in raw, dark-washed, medium-washed, or light-washed styles. We offer both 100% cotton and stretch fabrics, including selvedge denim made on vintage shuttle looms, as well as special blends such as hemp-cotton denim and recycled cotton.

In addition to selecting the fabric, clients can choose from a variety of fits designed to transcend seasonal trends. They can also request minor modifications to achieve a perfect fit for their body type. Finally, clients can personalize their jeans with buttons, zippers, rivets, threads, and back patches. They can make their jeans even more distinctive by having their initials embroidered in their favorite color or by laser engraving a name or logo onto the back patch.

Our new personalized jeans

In 2025, we expanded the offerings at the Candiani Denim Store to include customizable denim garments such as jeans, jackets, and jinbeis. Our made-to-measure jeans are crafted from scratch, while our customizable jeans are pre-produced and let you select your preferred hardware and details. The key differences lie not only in price but also in turnaround time: made-to-measure jeans take 15 working days to produce, whereas customizable jeans can be finished in almost real time.

Clients can choose the hem length and select buttons and rivets in gold, silver, copper, black, or white. They can also opt for one of our exclusive Nove25 jewel buttons. Additionally, customers may choose a back patch in colors such as cocoon, natural, dark brown, indigo, or black, and decide whether to have a name or logo laser-engraved on it. Finally, customers can personalize their jeans by having their initials embroidered in their preferred color.

As with our made-to-measure jeans, our customizable options are available in timeless fits, including regular-fit, chino, and loose styles, and a variety of fabrics. These range from traditional selvedge denim to Soft Core, our new staple stretch denim designed for superior comfort, featuring a unique blend of Blue Seed cotton and LYCRA® EcoMade.

Candiani Custom&Standards

After establishing our vision in-store, we transitioned it online with our Primo Jean. With over 85 years of experience in the denim industry, we offer a wardrobe staple: regular-fit jeans featuring a traditional five-pocket design, crafted from the finest Candiani fabrics, preferred by premium and luxury brands.

We oversee every step of the production process, from selecting the finest cotton seeds to the final sewing. Our garments are made in Italy, specifically in a region renowned for its rich textile heritage, where knowledge and skills have been passed down through generations. This dedication helps preserve both the craft and its quality. Plus, Italy adheres to strict environmental and social standards, so you can feel confident in what you wear.

While our jeans cannot be made to measure online, you can always select the hem length along with your size. We offer four standard jeans that we believe represent the best choice based on our experience. If you wish to personalize them further, you can alter the wash, buttons, rivets, label, and thread color. Finally, you have the option to have your initials embroidered in your choice of font.