Levi's 501®: the jeans that made history

The Levi’s 501® is more than a pair of jeans: it is the blueprint for modern denim. Its story began on 20 May 1873, when Levi Strauss and Jacob Davis received a patent for adding copper rivets to the stress points of work trousers. For decades, the 501® was worn by miners, cowboys and workers.

After the Second World War, the 501® moved beyond workwear and became a cultural icon. Worn by figures such as Marlon Brando and James Dean, it came to symbolise youthful rebellion and freedom. While fashion has changed, the 501® has retained the features that still make it so sought-after in the vintage market: sturdy construction and its iconic button fly.

THE ORIGINAL FIT

The appeal of the 501® lies in its versatility: its proportions have evolved over decades to suit a wide range of body types.

STRAIGHT LEG: The leg runs straight down to the ankle. Neither tight nor excessively loose, it creates a clean, timeless silhouette.

REGULAR RISE: It sits naturally at the waist for a comfortable, classic fit that goes beyond passing trends.

BUTTON FLY: Unlike later styles, the 501® features a button fly, one of its most recognisable details.

RIGID DENIM: Vintage pairs are made from non-stretch denim. With regular wear, the fabric gradually moulds to your body, giving each pair a fit of its own.