Brand to Watch: Rogue Territory

An up and coming label that true denim connoisseurs should be keeping their eyes on is Los Angeles-based denim brand Rogue Territory. Rogue Territory was launched in 2008 by Karl Thoennessen, who originally worked in marketing, but moved to Los Angeles in 2007 to apprentice under Brian Kim of Work Custom Jeans. Thoennessen intended to learn everything there was about denim and Rogue Territory is a reflection of his design philosophy. 

The name Rogue Territory comes from the rebellious (or rogue) nature of those who wore jeans in the 50's and 60's. Located in the World Denim Bar at American Rag, Thoennessen has used his expertise to create a line of handcrafted and bespoke premium jeans that draw inspiration from the industrial age of the 20th century. The American Rag location also serves as a design studio where customers can observe the jeans-making process as well as ask questions. 

Because of their handcrafted roots, Rogue Territory is dedicated to "preserving the trade of handcrafted goods and supporting the skilled artisans who employ creativity and manual dexterity to create unique, one-of-a-kind pieces." That, plus their appreciation of denim history, will make this brand a favorite among aficionados.