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We all love our 505™ Regular Fit. It's a timeless classic known for its straight-leg design, extra comfortable room in the thigh and effortless versatility (so you can pair them with most things in your closet). Whether you’re running errands, heading to work or going out for the night, the 505™ keeps things simple, structured and always stylish. But how does it compare to other classic Levi's® fits? With so many options to choose from, knowing the differences can help you make the best decision for your personal style and body type. Let’s break it down so you can find your fit.
Straight, Relaxed, Tapered, Skinny—What's the Difference?
Before we dive into the comparisons, it’s helpful to understand some key characteristics that define different denim styles:
- Straight fit: A consistent leg width from thigh to ankle for an overall, balanced look.
- Relaxed fit: Extra room in the seat and thigh for easy movement all day, every day.
- Tapered fit: Narrower at the ankle, creating a more tailored aesthetic.
- Skinny fit: Close-fitting to your body for a sleek, modern look.Now, let’s see how the 505™ differs from other Levi’s® favorites.
505™ vs…
514™ Straight
Both the 505™ and the 514™ Straight Fit are classic straight-leg styles, but there are a few subtle differences. We made the 505™ to be a little roomier in the thigh, making it great for all-day comfort. Meanwhile, the 514™ is slightly slimmer through the leg, offering a more modern, streamlined look without being too tight. If you’re looking for a classic but slightly closer fit, the 514™ is a great alternative.
The 514™ is a go-to choice for those who appreciate a refined, yet effortless look when it comes to their denim. With its more tailored fit, it offers a polished appearance without sacrificing comfort, making it great for both casual and elevated outfits. If you like wearing boots or dress shoes, the silhouette provides a clean line that pairs well with more structured footwear. The 505™, on the other hand, offers a relaxed, everyday style that complements sneakers and casual shoes.
550™ Relaxed
For those who prefer extra-extra comfort, the 550™ Relaxed Fit is the way to go. It’s looser than the 505™, especially in the seat and thigh, adding a laid-back, easygoing element to any outfit. While the 505™ maintains structure with a classic straight leg, the 550™ prioritizes roominess.
We recommend the 550™ to those with a bigger, more athletic build or those who simply like more room to move. The added space in the thigh and seat makes it ideal for activities that require bending and flexibility, such as working outdoors or spending long hours on your feet.
559™ Relaxed Straight
The major differences between the 505™ and the 559™ Relaxed Straight Fit lie in the rise and leg opening. The 505™ sits perfectly at the waist with a traditional straight-leg shape, while the 559™ has a slightly lower rise and a more relaxed cut. The lower rise makes it a great option for those who don’t like their jeans sitting too high on the waist. If you want a little extra room while keeping it more modern, the 559™ is a great choice.
The 559™ is also versatile when it comes to styling. It works well for casual outfits but can also be paired with a button-up shirt and loafers.
502™ Taper
If you love the relaxed feel of the 505™ but want a more tailored look, we think the 502™ Taper Fit is worth checking out. The 502™ starts with a comfortable fit in the thigh but narrows down at the ankle, creating a contemporary, clean-cut shape. It’s a great option if you want something modern without going full skinny.
Tapered jeans like the 502™ have become more and more popular because they offer the best of both worlds: casual and not-so-casual, depending on the styling. They can be worn with sneakers for an everyday look or paired with dressier shoes for a more put-together vibe.
541™ Athletic Taper
Designed for those with an athletic build, the 541™ Athletic Taper Fit offers extra room in the seat and thigh while tapering toward the ankle. If you live an active lifestyle, play sports or just have particularly muscular legs, you might prefer the 541™ because it accommodates larger thighs while still providing a tailored appearance. Compared to the straight-fit 505™, the 541™ is built to be comfortable without feeling too baggy. Unlike relaxed-fit jeans that can look oversized, the 541™ offers a structured shape.
555™ Relaxed
Like the 550™, the 555™ Relaxed Fit prioritizes comfort, but it offers an even looser feel. While the 505™ provides a sharper structure, the 555™ is more generous from waist to hem, giving you an easy, effortless shape. If you want a jean that leans even more into roomy comfort without going full-on baggy, you'll love the ease of our 555™.
510™ Skinny
The difference between these two fits is night and day. The 510™ Skinny Fit is made for a slim, close-to-the-body fit. The 505™, on the other hand, is all about extreme ease and movement. If you love a good skinny jean, you’re going to love the 510™. But if you want something with a classic, comfortable cut, we suggest sticking with the 505™.
568™ Loose Straight
We totally get it—some people like a super loose fit. If this is you, the 568™ Loose Straight Fit offers extra room in every direction. Compared to the structured fit of the 505™, the 568™ is significantly baggier, with a wider leg opening. It’s the go-to fit for anyone who loves a ’90s vintage-inspired, oversized feel.
512™ Slim Taper
The 512™ Slim Taper Fit is designed for a more tailored fit. It’s slimmer through the thigh and tapers toward the ankle, creating a sleek, refined shape. While the 505™ maintains a straight cut, the 512™ is perfect for those who want a modern, close-fitting jean without it being too skinny.
How to Choose Your Fit
With so many choices out there, it all comes down to what feels best for you—whether you’re into a relaxed, laid-back vibe or something more structured and polished. It’s all about finding the right fit that matches your style and keeps you comfortable all day. Here’s a quick recap:
- For a timeless, easy-to-wear look: Stick with the 505™ Regular.
- For a slimmer straight-leg style: Try the 514™.
- For a relaxed, roomy feel: Go with the 550™ or 555™.
- For a modern tapered fit: Choose the 502™ or 541™.
- For an ultra-loose fit: Pick the 568™.
- For a sleek, tailored aesthetic: Opt for the 510™ or 512™.
No matter which fit you go for, Levi’s® jeans are made to last—strong, comfortable and always in style. Check out our collection and find your next favorite fit.