Those “weird ripples” in jeans are usually caused by fabric tension or the way the denim was cut and sewn, rather than something you did wrong.
Common causes include:
- Twisted seams: If the side seam twists slightly after washing, it can create ripples down the leg.
- Poor fabric recovery: Stretch denim can develop waves or wrinkles if the elastic fibers don’t recover properly.
- Pre-washing or finishing: Some jeans develop permanent-looking ripples from the manufacturing or finishing process.
- Fit issues: If the jeans are too tight in one area or too loose in another, the fabric can bunch and create horizontal or diagonal ripples.
- Washing and drying: High heat or aggressive drying can exaggerate existing distortion.
If both pairs developed the ripples immediately after purchase, it’s more likely a manufacturing or construction issue. If you bought them from the same brand or store, there may be a common production or fabric problem.
If you send me a photo of the ripples, I can tell you what type they look like and whether they can probably be fixed—or whether I’d return the jeans.