When Virginia’s own Josh Tyler sent in these pics of his Tellasons, one word came to mind: chiaroscuro, a style an oil painting technique that contrasts light and dark tones to generate interesting forms. And just like a Rembrandt, these puppies have so much play between light and dark that we had to make them our Fade Of The Day.

Let’s be honest here—this is exactly what we hope a pair of hard-worn jeans look like at the four-year mark. Josh, a construction worker, has marks of the trade here and there, by way of some paint spills, busted-through knees, indigo-depleted thighs and a fat wallet fade from all the cash pocketed at the end of his day.

Even after four years, the level of indigo retention at the shins is spectacular, allowing the whiskers and large swaths of near indigo-free denim above the knee to pop right out and grab your attention.

Tellason John Graham Mellor Raw Denim Jeans

• Fabric: 100% cotton selvedge denim
• Fabric weight: 14.75 oz.
• Fabric source: USA (Cone Mills White Oak)
• Made in: USA
• Fit: Slim
• Additional Details:
  • Tanner Goods leather patch
  • Button fly
  • Two-tone stitching
• Available at: Unionmade for $220