Usually, denim gets written off as “just jeans.” But once you dive into Gustin’s lineup, you realize these aren’t just pants, they’re storytellers. After spending time with four different pairs, I’ve come to see why Gustin isn’t your average denim brand. It’s a small-scale, direct‑to‑you operation that treats each pair like a personal project. And like any good story, what you get out of them depends on how you wear them.
The 1968
I kicked things off with the 1968 Selvedge denim, a boot‑friendly straight fit. Immediate vibes: straight fit with room for thighs and at my waist size or a 36, they are long enough to be stacked, without looking sloppy, or cuffed. In any type of cowboy boot! That fit showed early on how Gustin cares about use cases if you work in boots, they work for you.
The 567 Vintage Army
Another straight fit I tried was the 567 Vintage Army selvedge denim. This color appears to change a little depending on the type of light you are under. In the sunlight they may appear lighter and indoors they may seem darker. I love the color and vibes of this style. It fits similar to the 1968 though I sized down to a waist size 35 and I like the fit a bit better. They stretch out as you break them in them too and work with all types of boots just like the 1968. Out of all the Gustin's I've tried so far, these are my favorite.
Shop the Gustin 567 Vintage Army selvedge denim
The 562 Herringbone
Then came the 562 Herringbone Selvedge. again these were the straight fit and I went with size 35 again. It hugs a bit closer, with a subtle trace of texture in the herringbone—like a whisper you only notice if you’re up close. These feel sharper, more everyday-ready, and travel beautifully between work and weekend. They definitely more of a dress jean in my opinion and I've been enjoying wearing them on slightly fancier casual occasions.
Shop the Gustin 562 Herringbone selvedge denim
The 173 Zimbabwe Superlight
Next up was the 173 Zimbabwe Superlight Japanese Selvedge in the Slim fit which is ideal for summer. These are light, breathable, and leaner than the others, giving a crisp silhouette and still worked with most of the boots I tried them with. This was the first slim fit Gustin I tried and I enjoy its 10.5 oz selvedge denim of Zimbabwe cotton which feels more durable than more lightweight denims I've tried in the past.
Shop the Gustin 173 Zimbabwe Superlight
Fit Preferences: Straight vs Slim
One of the smartest things Gustin does is offer diverse silhouettes:
Straight: What I like to call “the reliable workhorse.” Generous in thigh and hem. It’s great for athletic builds or if you wear boots. Roomy, comfy, and doesn’t cling—perfect for all-day wear.
Slim: Narrower silhouette, mid-rise, trimmed from thigh to ankle. Ideal for modern style. Clean, structured, pairs with sneakers or sleek boots. It’s flattering but not suffocating. The 173’s slim fit shows how sharp and lightweight it is even in hot months.
Wearing In & Wearing Out (in the Best Way)
Every pair felt stiff out of the gate but quickly relaxed into my shape. The 567, in particular, didn’t cling—it flexed, folded, and moved without complaint. Fades started to show in the knee arcs and seat first, carrying a subtle patina from real wear.
The 562’s texture began to show in tight seat lines and soft whiskers. A calm story growing with casual Fridays, patio beers, and late-night drives.
These jeans don’t force character, it grows organically with life. No mystery washes, just honest fading shaped by real moments.
Denim is about time. Gustin gets that. These jeans aren’t duds, they’re companions. Worn through festivals, cafés, barn gigs, or Friday bars. They carry moments. Your moments. You shape them, they support you.
And when they’re worn, faded and broken in they become a legacy.