Mineral Wash aka "Acid Wash"

The History

Mineral wash took off in the 1980s during the rise of grunge and alternative fashion. The distressed, worn-in look—especially in acid-washed jeans and denim jackets—was a rebellion against clean, polished styles. Oversized shirts, bold graphic tees, and heavy boots made the mineral wash aesthetic a symbol of carefree youth culture.

Today, that same vibe is making a comeback. People are blending the raw look of the past with modern streetwear silhouettes. Mineral wash has returned to everyday fashion, proving that vintage texture and bold style never go out of fashion.

The Process

The process starts by dyeing the garment in a solid color and setting the dye. While still damp, the piece goes through a secondary treatment: it’s tossed into a machine with foam cubes infused with potassium. As the garment tumbles, the cubes gently abrade the surface, creating a snowy, faded finish that gives each piece its unique vintage character.