They're a classic for a reason.
Out of all the denim I own, my Levi’s 501 Original Fit Jeans — which I have in three colors and counting — are perhaps my most-worn. I’m hardly alone in reaching for the classic style on repeat; celebrities including Hailey Beiber and Kendall Jenner have donned various versions of the pants; Marilyn Monroe, as iconic to film as Levi’s are to fashion, even wore 501s back in the day.
A classic in the truest sense of the word, the 501 style remains, amazingly, on trend 151 years after its genesis and the dawn of the blue jean, in 1873. In the century since, Levi’s has expanded its selection of the classic cut, releasing myriad colors and washes.
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The Levi’s 501 Original Fit Jeans are the first-ever style from the original denim brand. The defining features of the 501 is its zipper-free button fly, straight leg, and mid-rise waist, which is somewhat cinched and resists slipping or stretching throughout the day. In contrast, the hip and thighs are relaxed by virtue of the straight-cut style. Finished with a boot-cut bottom, the jeans exude a vintage, cool-girl vibe and pair perfectly with a basic white tee.
The versatility these jeans offer is perhaps my favorite feature. In addition to cropped tees or French-tucked sweaters in the colder months, the 501s work with the brand’s trucker jackets. I often don dark-wash 501s with a corresponding jacket; denim-on-denim is, after all, making a comeback. So, too, are Western-inspired styles. Ergo, I simply had to purchase the 501 Original Fit Chaps — a subtle nod to the trend — the moment I laid eyes on them.
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The 501 jeans are significantly more comfortable than other pairs I own; though the waist is snug, it’s not constricting or overly stiff. The fabric is surprisingly soft for denim, too. So soft, in fact, one shopper even donned the pants on a 12-hour flight with zero complaints.
My sister, inspired by my buying numerous 501 jeans, has since purchased a pair for herself, and feels similarly thrilled by the flattering fit, comfortable material, and, most of all, the versatility and vintage vibe these jeans offer.
For a timeless classic that’s still very much on-trend — and comfortable! — shop the Levi’s 501 Original Fit Jean, available in numerous washes.
Shop more denim staple from Levi’s:
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