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DOC. TYPE: HISTORY_LOG REF: Levi's 501®: The jean that made history. STATUS: ARCHIVED

Levi's 501®: The jean that made history.

The Levi's 501® isn't just a pair of jeans; it's the prototype for every modern pair of pants. Officially born on May 20, 1873, when Levi Strauss and Jacob Davis obtained a patent for applying copper rivets to the stress points of work trousers, the 501® has been the uniform of miners, cowboys, and factory workers for decades.

In the postwar era, the 501® went from the world of work to that of legend. Worn by icons like Marlon Brando and James Dean, it became a symbol of youthful rebellion and freedom. Despite changes in fashion, the 501® remained true to itself, retaining the distinctive elements that still make it the most sought-after jean on the vintage market today: its sturdy construction and iconic button fly.

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THE ORIGINAL FIT

The appeal of the 501® lies in its democracy: it is a cut that adapts to almost any body type thanks to proportions studied for decades.

STRAIGHT LEG: The leg is straight from hip to ankle. It's neither tight nor overly baggy, offering a clean, timeless silhouette.

MID-WAIST (REGULAR RISE): It sits naturally on the hips, ensuring comfort and a classic fit that doesn't follow passing trends.

BUTTON FLY: Unlike later models, the true 501® still features a button fly, which avoids the deformations typical of zippers on 100% cotton denim.

STIFF DENIM: Vintage styles are made of non-stretch denim. The jeans mold to your body with prolonged wear, becoming a unique and tailored piece over time.

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Vintage 501