name: Edwin van Zoeren
Instagram ID: @dutchdenimrepair, @dutchdenimproject
Daily work: Owner Dutch Denim Repair & Project and part-time CCU-nurse
Who are you and what are you doing within the (denim) industry?
Hi, my name is Edwin van Zoeren and I mainly repair and alter jeans. I try to keep denim alive for as long as possible using characteristic and industrial sewing machines. With that in mind, I began to design and produce my own jeans as Dutch Denim Project.
What are you currently working on?
We do have some nice projects coming up, but we are currently working on our next capsule. After launching the first capsule, we are producing the second capsule fully, here, in the Netherlands.
What is the biggest achievement so far in your career?
Opening our first store, which we call 'The Workshop. It is a place where you can drop off your jeans for some high-quality repairs, get an instant chainstitch hemming service or for a nice pair of handmade jeans. Or just stop by for a nice chat and a great cup of coffee.
For the launch of this website, we had the pleasure of working with Pey on the collab-bag that we've made together. (This special collab-bag is available here in the Denim Days webshop). I liked every step of the process and making an unique collectors item.
What is/are your favourite denim brand(s), and why?
Ouf.. there are a lot of (denim)brands, makers and people that I look up to or just like to follow their journey. When it comes to one-man brands; Ben Viapiana, Johan Ruttloff, Iu Franquesa (Companion Denim) and Paul Kruize. And there are some amazing brands with a great lifestyle and vibe around them, like Benzak Denim Developers, Rogue Territory and Iron Heart.
And there are more that I didn’t mention, but go check out what these brands do. It's amazing…
What is your favourite denim store, and why?
There are a lot of 'must have been' stores on my list, where you could find an amazing collection of brands, items and stories to tell. Such as Self Edge (NY/LA, US), Tenue de Nimes (Amsterdam, NL), Rivet and Hide (London/Manchester, UK) and other big names. Go and check out this list: https://www.highsnobiety.com/p/denim-store-guide/
But if I have to choose one, go check out Store du Nord, The Hague (NL). Jeroen, owner and curator, has a very nice collection of unique brands and supports the small and independent makers, like Companion Denim, The Concrete, Ruttloff Denim and more…
What do you think we can expect in the (near) future of denim developments as it comes to sustainability?
From what I see and learn from the industry and customers is that the people are now more informed about a product. How it's made, where it comes from and want to invest in a quality and well-made item. An honest item that will stand the test of time. So less waste and more quality and durability.
What is the most valuable lesson you have learned during your work?
Stay humble and honest, learn from every step or mistake. Do not give up and keep trying.
If you could be someone else for one day, who would you be, and why?
That's a tricky one.., how about being Max Verstappen for one day, just driving an F1-car at 330 km/h around Zandvoort. With the orange army cheering…
Can you describe your ultimate pair of jeans?
A new pair of jeans, stiff and full of starch. Raw and unwashed. 14 oz. Nothing heavier. Just a great combination of a nice fabric, great fit and nice details.
Do you have a life slogan, or one that inspires you?
'' The best way of learning about anything is by doing '' - Richard Branson.
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