In our 150 or so years as a company we’ve made—to put it mildly—A LOT of different styles of jeans for men. From ultra skinny, to acid wash, to pleated denim styles, our jeans have done their best to change with the times, but there are certain styles that just never get old. Since you all have been asking, we’re taking the time to breakdown the best of the best Levi’s® denim. We’ll give you the lowdown on the history and design of six of our best-loved styles, plus breakdown the details of each fit to help you pick the one that’s right for you.
The Lowdown
Look up iconic in the dictionary and there will be a picture of the 501® Original. They’re literally the blueprint for every pair of jeans in existence (we know...wild, right?). Invented in 1873 by Levi Strauss himself, this straight fit jean has been worn by virtually everyone from the ultra-famous to the kid next door.
The Breakdown
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The Lowdown
As we continue our tour through the history of Levi’s,® we make our way to the 505™ Regular. Designed in 1967, (during the cultural revolution, no less) this was our first ever style featuring a zip fly but still has all the classic elements you know and love from a Levi’s® piece.
The Breakdown
The 505™ Regular looks a little like the 501® with a few key important differences. We’ve still got the 100% cotton non-stretch denim and five-pocket construction, but this look is cut a little differently. The slightly relaxed fit sits at your waist and features extra room in the seat and thigh with a straight leg finish. Classic with a laidback feel.
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The Lowdown
Okay, here’s the skinny on the 511™ Slim. They’re a newer style so we’re all out of archival insights for you. This style is really for the guy who wants the modern look of a sleek skinny but none of the discomfort of an overly clingy fit. Enter the Slim.
The Breakdown
Narrow, but not too narrow, 511™ Slim has a unique cut and a secret weapon that helps keep it comfortable. Let’s start with the design. Sitting just below your natural waist, this style stays slim through the seat and thigh. A unique blend of cotton, TENCEL™ Lyocell and elastane, keep it ultra soft and add just the right amount of stretch. A zip fly and five-pocket styling maintain that classic Levi’s® look. Which is all to say, these slim jeans look modern and fit like they were made just for you.
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The Lowdown
Alright, after all that engineering in the slim it’s time to relax a little. The 550™ Relaxed can help you do just that. Another more modern addition to the roster, the 550™ jeans style was introduced in 1985 and is — in our opinion — one of the most comfortable versions of the classic we have thanks to its laidback roomy fit.
The Breakdown
The slightly baggy fit sits at the waist and is loose (that’s right LOOSE, not relaxed) through the seat and thigh. A straight leg, zip fly, and five-pocket styling stay true to our design language, while a 100% cotton non-stretch denim construction brings in that ultra long-lasting durability.
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The Lowdown
Remember when we talked about the 511™ Slim? Well the 512™ Slim taper is it’s even skinnier younger brother that brings all the same comfort. This is definitely for the guy who isn’t afraid to rock a skinny tapered pant with a statement shoe and we love that about them.
The Breakdown
The 512™ Slim Taper features the same seat and thigh fit as the 511™ Slim, but also features tapering in the leg for an ultra-close fit. Its 99% cotton and 1% elastane heavyweight denim construction adds some structure and holds up well over time. That essential Levi’s® look comes through with a zip fly and Arcuate stitching. Plus, the tailor-inspired cut helps show off the shoes (we’re looking at you, sneakerheads).
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The Lowdown
Have you all met our newest style yet? Allow us to introduce you to the So High. This vintage-inspired look is plucked straight from the ’70s. It’s for the fashion forward guy — the guy that is looking to really push the boundaries of his creativity and showcase his own unique point-of-view. In short, they’re effortlessly cool in a laid back vintage-y way.
The Breakdown
So we did mention the ’70s and we definitely weren’t kidding. A high waist is universally flattering, making your stomach look smaller and your legs look longer. Then there’s the cut of the leg. You can go full flower child with a bootcut version (think of all the shoe possibilities) or keep it a little more classic with a rock’n’roll inspired slim fit. Classic Levi’s® style comes through with five-pocket construction and signature stitching.
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So, What’ll It Be?
We’ve given you the lowdown and the breakdown on six signature styles. Are you loyal to a classic (can’t ever go wrong with the 501®) or in the mood to spice up your wardrobe with something groovy (‘70s style is back baby)? Doesn’t matter what your denim cup of tea may be, we've got you covered!
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