Pace Jeans - Sawtooth Denim Shirt.

An American inspired gem.

Wonderfully soft 7.5oz denim and great detailing = a shirt win.

No denim head's wardrobe is complete with out a denim shirt or two. As ever, there are a huge number on offer that vary widely in quality and detailing.

Those looking for an accurate heritage workwear example could do no better than look at Pace Jeans. Founded by Swede, Klas Erixon, in 2003, they're defined by love of all things Americana and a commendably obsessive attention to detail. Though commercial pressure has meant Pace recently adding more contemporary lines to their range, the brand has traditionally focused on high quality workwear.

Satisfyingly long tails.

Cut in a western style, the shirt is made from 7.5oz pre washed denim, produced in Italy.

In addition to the quality of the fabric, what sets this shirt apart for me is the beautiful detailing. The Pace arcuate, stitched here on the sawtooth pockets, and replicated again on the yoke, is inspired by the lines of a 1955 Ford.

Arcuate detail on front pocket.

The pocket, cuff and placket popper buttons are all pearlescent black. Key for me is that, unlike most contemporary shirts, it has generously cut tails. Meant to be worn tucked in, the long tails would stay tucked as workmen went about their daily chores.

Beatiful black pearlescent buttons.

I spoke to Pace's man in Denmark, Carsten Lund Frederiksen of A Small Jeans Company, earlier this week. Asked to summarise what Pace do he said simply, "for them everything is black & white, they're not interested in compromise."

Such is all we should ever look for in our clothes. The concept of authenticity gets bandied about too much in the heritage fashion world. It is perhaps better to solely focus on quality, and in this regard Pace seem to have got it right.

Pace also produce some wonderful dry selvedge bottoms. Milled in Osaka, Japan, they are all fashioned from a satisfyingly heavy 13.75oz denim. I particularly like the PX-03 cinch backs - on which more soon.

In the meantime, if you like the look of the shirt why not pop in to see Carsten at A Small Jeans Company. In addition to a shop packed full of quality denim & leather he has beer and coffee!

As yet Pace don't have a UK agent, but don't despair, if you're not in Scandinavia or Germany you can get your paws on their denim here.