You found the perfect pair of jeans — the wash, the fit, the stretch — but they're too long. Before you fold them up or cut them with scissors, there's a professional technique that shortens your jeans while keeping the original factory hem intact. It's called the "Euro hem" or "original-hem preservation," and it's one of the most popular alterations we perform.
What Is an Original Hem?
The original hem is the factory-finished edge at the bottom of your jeans. It has a distinctive look — the fade, the thickness, the precise stitching — that's impossible to replicate with a standard cut-and-sew hem. On premium denim, the original hem is part of the garment's character.
How the Original-Hem Technique Works
- Measure: We determine exactly how much length to remove based on your shoes and desired break.
- Fold: The excess fabric is folded inward just above the original hem edge.
- Stitch: A precise seam secures the fold from the inside, keeping the original hem edge visible on the outside.
- Press: The finished hem is pressed flat for a clean, natural appearance.
The result looks like your jeans were always this length. The original fade and stitching remain intact.
Original Hem vs. Standard Hem
- Original hem: Keeps the factory edge, retains fade and character. Best for premium denim, selvedge, and raw denim. Starts at $25.
- Standard hem: Cuts and re-finishes the edge. Creates a "new" hem that may look different from the original. Works fine for basic everyday jeans.
If you're spending $50+ on jeans, the original hem is worth the small investment. For designer or selvedge denim, it's essential.
How Long Does Denim Hemming Take?
Standard turnaround is 3–5 business days. Need them faster? Our 48-hour rush service handles denim hemming as a priority — drop off before 4pm and pick up within 48 hours, guaranteed.
Tips for the Best Jeans Hem
- Bring the shoes you'll wear most often — heel height affects the ideal length
- Decide on your preferred "break" — no break (modern), slight break (classic), or full break (relaxed)
- If you bought raw/unwashed denim, wash it once before hemming (it will shrink)
- Tell your tailor if you plan to cuff your jeans — they'll adjust the length accordingly
Can You Hem Any Type of Jeans?
Yes — we hem all denim types: skinny, straight, bootcut, wide-leg, boyfriend, and flared. The original-hem technique works on most constructions, though extremely thick or heavily distressed hems may require a standard approach.
Bring your jeans in — no appointment needed. We'll pin the perfect length while you wait and have them ready within days. Contact us or just walk in during business hours.
