RRL Jeans & Trousers

RRL, or Double RL, is Ralph Lauren's heritage workwear line, best known for vintage-inspired selvedge denim made with traditional methods. The same approach runs through its chinos and trousers, with hard-wearing cottons, button flies and utility detailing. Many pieces are made in the USA or use Japanese selvedge, which is reflected in the price.

RRL jeans and chinos often run slightly large in the waist, so it helps to compare the measurements against a pair you already own. Raw, unwashed denim can relax a little with wear, while sanforised pairs are made to limit shrinkage. If you are between sizes, sizing down is usually safer on rigid denim than on washed or twill pairs.

Choose jeans if you want classic denim that fades and ages with you, in raw or washed selvedge. Choose chinos, such as the officer chino, if you want a smarter cotton-twill trouser that still works casually. Carpenter and field trousers sit between the two, adding utility pockets and a more rugged, outdoor feel.

RRL is the heritage, workwear-focused end of Ralph Lauren, with selvedge denim, vintage detailing and higher prices. Polo Ralph Lauren is more everyday and modern, with lighter chinos and a wider choice of washed and stretch jeans at lower prices. Choose RRL for raw or selvedge denim built to age, and Polo for easier, lighter everyday trousers.

Wash raw selvedge denim as little as possible to protect the fades that build with wear. When you do wash, turn the jeans inside out, use cold water on a gentle cycle, then hang them to dry rather than tumble drying. Spot-clean small marks between washes and air the jeans regularly to keep them fresh.