Fashion

150 years of 501: 9 facts about the Levi's 501 that you never expected

150 years of Levi's 501 jeans

While it was originally intended for miners in 1873, the Levi's 501 has now become a forever favorite among almost everyone. Ask Gigi Hadid, Kendall Jenner, Victoria Beckham, or J.Lo and they will all confirm: this is the absolute best jeans to invest in. This year, the iconic 501® jeans turns 150 years old, which we believe deserves an ode to this #1. The jeans has proven its position as an icon, because after 150 years, it is still not out of style. I mean: I don't know any other piece of clothing that can be cool for one hundred fifty years. I don't think any other garment can match that. Whether you go for a comfy look with sneakers or create a fancy look with high heels, the 501® is a staple piece with its straight fit that you definitely want to have in your closet. Today, I have gathered nine facts about the Levi's 501 that you might not have known. And okay... Maybe also a few shop links to buy your perfect one today. After all, it's a celebration, and we celebrate with gifts.

1. The first pair of pants was produced in 1873 by Levi Strauss & Co. And guess what? They sold for 1 euro back then.

2. Funny: via an internet auction, someone from Japan bought a similar pair of pants, a 115-year-old Levi's, for much more than that euro; he paid no less than 52,245 euros, making it the most expensive jeans purchase ever.

3. Only 33 years after the first Levi's 501 was made, the Two Horse leather logo patch was used for the first time. You know, the logo patch with the two pulling horses (which represent the durability of the jeans) and which we now mainly see as proof of a real vintage gem.

4. Starting in 1922, several adjustments were made to the 501 jeans. Hello belt loops, goodbye suspenders.

5. Only in 1981 did the first 501 for women hit the market. Yep, we had to wait a full 108 years for that.

6. In the 1960s, the 501® was banned from schools. This was related to various statements and subcultures. But you understand: that made the jeans more popular than ever before.

7. The 501 is the favorite jeans model of various celebs including Kendall Jenner, Hailey Bieber, Bella Hadid, Victoria Beckham, and J.Lo.

150 years of Levi's 501 jeans

8. The 501 model now includes not one original model, but eight variants.

  • 501® Original: The original item with a classic straight leg and regular fit at the seat and thighs.
  • Women’s 501® Crop: The original item with the iconic straight fit and cropped legs.
  • Women’s 501® Skinny: The 501® jeans with extra skinny legs.
  • Women’s 501® ’90s: The jeans with a vintage look and mid-rise waist that sits a bit looser around the legs.
  • Men’s 501® ’93: A jeans with vintage fit inspired by the skate culture of the 90s.
  • Men’s 501® Taper: With its vintage twist and more modern cut, the 501®T is a slightly tighter version of the original.
  • Women’s 501® ’81: The 501® ’81 was inspired by the very first 501® designed specifically for women and has the highest waist and the most pronounced tapered legs.
  • Men’s 501® ’54: Inspired by a jeans from the archives, the 501® ’54 has that characteristic 501® anti-fit, but with a straight leg and classic details.

9. And last but certainly not least: did you know that the classic 501 model gives you the best butt in your pants?


1.  501 High waist straight leg cropped jeans, €109,95
2. 501 Mid waist straight jeans with colored wash, €119,95
3. 501 90s Mid waist straight leg jeans destroyed, €119,95
4. 501 Mid waist straight leg jeans with medium wash, €119,95
5. 501 High waist straight fit jeans with patches, €139,95
6. 501 High waist straight leg jeans with light wash, €119,95