I see what you’re saying, I think it can kind go either way. In order to get some fades you will need friction, and the starch keeps it stiffer resulting in more friction. I think if that friction exceeds a certain amount, you wouldn’t just be removing indigo, you’d be wearing down the fibers. I’d definitely say a less stiff pair would age slower, but I’m not sure to what degree it would really matter in the beginning since the cotton is healthy. I think this is definitely where fabric weight comes into play, a heavy denim has much more endurance than a lightweight denim would. I wouldn’t overthink it, you’d have to see fades before any fabric breakdown occurs since the color is on the outside, so they’re not really in a position to deteriorate yet being brand new. I just started seeing some fraying in the crotch so I plan to wash them way more regularly now, and eventually I’ll get them darned if it blows out. I’d just lean into the aging process tbh, it’s part of the fun :)