3Sixteen was founded in 2003 by Andrew Chen and Johan Lam, though their actual denim history really kicked off in 2008. That’s when they created their first pair of jeans, the SL-100x.
The name 3Sixteen is a reference to the Bible verse John 3:16, reflecting a personal and faith-influenced ethos behind the brand. Their core philosophy is to make things that last, age well, and reward wear. Simple, honest products built from quality materials, From hardware (rivets, buttons) and leather patches to thread colors, everything is chosen to age well.
Even the pocket linings of their jeans is made of a more heavy weight fabric. According to the brand:
“Overkill for some perhaps, but we figured that one of the highest stress areas of a jean deserves a beefy fabric that will withstand repeated abuse.”
3Sixteen works with Kuroki Mills in Okayama, Japan, to develop custom selvedge denim. But although the denim comes from Japan, the jeans themselves are cut and sewn in San Francisco, USA.
3Sixteen has their own store here in NYC, right in the heart of Soho – 190 Elizabeth Street where you can shop for their jeans in person. And you can also purchase 3Sixteen jeans online on their website as well as in many different locations.
