So this is why jeans are called jeans

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From the purpose of those little metal buttons to the reason for that fifth pocket, there are a lot of little-known facts about your beloved denim.

But have you ever wondered why they’re actually called jeans?

According to Hello Giggles, the name is rooted in history. Jeans were invented in the 19th century in the French town of Nimes. In French, the fabric that jeans are made from is called “Serge.” Thus, they were referred to as “Serge de Nimes,” – or “denim” for short.

OK, so that explains denim – but what about “jeans”?

Denim became extremely popular in Europe – and some of the biggest fans were sailors from Genoa, Italy. Whenever they were in France, the would buy their denim in bulk. The pants were so popular with the sailors, that the material quickly took on a nickname that paid tribute to the Genoa sailors: Jeans.

Check out the video below for more things you might not know about your jeans, and let us know what you think by tweeting @YahooStyleCA.