Superstitch

Superstitch is a denim brand founded in Paris by Arthur Leclerq. The project aims to reproduce the spirit of vintage jeans through old-school methods, period-correct cuts, and strict attention to detail. The core collection is made in Japan on fabrics developed specifically for the brand. Limited runs are also produced in Paris by hand, on vintage machines. It is also the best jeans-repair workshop in Paris.

Arthur Leclercq launched his first jean in 2020. The LR01 is a five-pocket cut inspired by 1972-1974, the years when the Type 66 Levi's 501 was at its peak. The name comes from his grandparents, Lydie and Rene. The letters L and R are a discreet tribute on every pair.

Leclercq works with artisans in Okayama to develop an exclusive 14oz unsanforized fabric, woven on a legendary Toyoda GL9 shuttle loom. The goal is precise: recreate the aging and fades of original 1972-1974 501s as accurately as possible. Every batch is one more step toward that obsession.

The workshop is at 13 rue Racine in Paris 6th. Inside, you see Arthur at his machine, a Union Special 43200G from the 1940s-1970s for chain-stitched hems, period Singer machines waiting for restoration, and vintage Levi's framed on the wall like paintings. Main production is done in Japan, but special series are hand-sewn by Arthur himself in Paris. In 2023, a very limited LR01 run came entirely out of this workshop.

The line has expanded: ecru five-pocket jeans (14oz unsanforized selvedge, electric shuttle loom), a Type 2 jacket, and a 1950s sawtooth Western shirt. Everything is unsanforized and shrinks 12 to 15% after the first wash, and each SPI follows the original specs. Long John, the Dutch denim reference, praised the brand as one that takes jeans to the next level. For vintage-reproduction obsessives, it is the only workshop in Europe that can rival the best Japanese makers.