What are the most popular vintage Levi's®?
Some of the most popular vintage Levi's® include the 501® Original Jeans—our first-ever blue jean (known for its signature button fly), Trucker Jackets, 505™ Regular Fit Jeans (our bestselling zip-fly design) and our classic Orange Tab collection. These pieces reflect our rich history of craftsmanship and timeless style. Collectors and enthusiasts all over the world love the comfort and quality of vintage Levi's®. So, if you're seeking out any of the previously mentioned styles from days past, here's what to know:
The original modern blue jean was our first riveted denim pants. Introduced in 1873 and still made today, 501® fits are quite literally iconic—from their straight-leg design to their button fly to their trademarked red tab. Some markers of highly covetable, vintage 501® jeans include a high rise, 100% cotton fabrication, single-stitch inseam (pre-1980), the "Big E" red tab (Before 1971, the LEVI'S® logo had an uppercase "E" instead of the present-day lowercase "e") and the absence of a care tag (these were introduced in the 1970s).
Levi Strauss & Co. invented the first riveted denim jacket way back in the 1870s, but our most popular iteration is definitely the Trucker Jacket. Since their debut in 1967, our Trucker Jackets have set the standard for rugged, effortless individuality. What modern denim enthusiasts dub Trucker Jackets were originally called Lot 70505 in the Levi’s® catalog. The ultra-durable construction of a vintage Levi’s® denim jacket lends to authentic wear, with a fade that only gets better with time.
Our popular zip-fly jeans, the 505™ Regular, also came onto the scene in 1967 and immediately gained a cult following. They offer a more relaxed fit plus a lighter-weight, softer material than 501® jeans, without compromising on quality. A higher rise and “Big E” tab are two easy ways to spot a vintage pair.
Available from 1969 to 1999, our Orange Tab collection featured of-the-moment denim pieces including jeans, jackets and shirts. Today, collectors appreciate the Orange Tab line’s representation of style evolution from its original run and all the way to its reintroduction to the Levi’s® lineup in 2017.
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How can you tell if a Levi's® jacket is vintage?
There are a few telltale signs that your Levi's® jacket is a vintage collector's piece. Look for factory stamping on buttons, a single chest pocket, a cinch-back with a metal buckle or the absence of care tags, side pockets or a red tab.
The difference is in the details. And learning how to spot them can also help you determine the era in which a genuine vintage Levi's® jacket was made:
The difference is in the details. And learning how to spot them can also help you determine the era in which a genuine vintage Levi's® jacket was made:
Introduced in 1905, the earliest “Type I” denim jackets had a single chest pocket, front and back pleats and a cinch-back with a metal buckle to customize the fit. In 1953, the “Type II” design traded the adjustable cinch-back for button tabs around the waistband, added a second front pocket and pocket flaps and gave the jacket cut a boxier silhouette. Since 1967, the classic Trucker Jacket “Type III” style has been our signature offering, featuring a more tapered, slimming fit, V-shaped front seams and dual front pockets with pointed flaps.
The tab on a Levi’s® jacket offers an instant hallmark of its vintage. Those made before 1971 carry the sought-after “Big E” Red Tab. Even rarer vintage pieces, made before 1954, are stitched on one side of the tab only. The rarest, made before our iconic red tab was introduced in 1936, carry no tab at all. You can immediately tell that a Levi’s® jean jacket was made after 1971 if the red tab has a lowercase “e”.
Care tags—or labels that include instructions for washing, drying, and ironing Levi’s® denim—became standard in the early 1970s. Vintage pieces made before then have no label. The style of tag may also be a clue to your Levi’s® jacket’s age. For example, the vintage care tags that were introduced in the 1970s may be made of a papery material or stamped inside the garment itself. Stitched care tags with instructions in multiple languages often signify a more recent item.
One or more of the buttons on your Levi’s® jean jacket will be stamped with a factory code indicating where it was manufactured. One- and two-digit numbers generally appear on older, vintage pieces made before 1981, while three-digit numbers appear on newer jackets.
We added side pockets to our denim jackets beginning in 1981. If your Levi’s® jacket doesn’t have side pockets, it’s probably a pre-1981 vintage style.
Do Levi's® jackets run small?
In general, we design our jackets to fit true to size. Some styles have an intentionally oversized or shrunken fit, and if that's the case, we'll call it out in their description. Otherwise, you can expect a classic Trucker Jacket or any of our modern top layers to feel structured, comfortable and tailored to your standard size. If you want a roomier, more relaxed feel, we suggest sizing up—especially if you plan to wear your Levi’s® jacket over bulky layers like hoodies or sweaters. We also offer an extended range of Big & Tall, Plus sizes and styles to accommodate a diverse range of body types and desired fits.
Keep in mind that genuine vintage Levi’s® jackets and pieces under the Levi’s® Vintage Clothing label, which are faithful reproductions of the original styles, tend to have a boxier cut and may feel more snug, especially around the chest.
Keep in mind that genuine vintage Levi’s® jackets and pieces under the Levi’s® Vintage Clothing label, which are faithful reproductions of the original styles, tend to have a boxier cut and may feel more snug, especially around the chest.
When did black Levi's® come out?
Black Levi’s® have been part of our denim heritage for over a century. Early Levi’s® catalogs, dating back to at least 1903, featured black-dyed denim workwear like pants, overalls and sack coats. By the mid-1950s, pop culture icons would rock black jeans to embody a rebellious aesthetic. Today, we offer our favorite classic cuts like 501® Originals, 505™ Regulars, 512™ Slim Tapers and many more in those deep black washes that continue to define timeless style.
When did Levi's® Signature come out?
Originally called Levi Strauss Signature, we launched the line in 2003 to extend our legacy of enduring craftsmanship and style to even more denim enthusiasts. The line featured pieces for men, women and children, available at roughly 3,000 mass-market stores across the United States. Designed for those seeking a quality, comfort and look that’s authentically Levi’s® at a great value, our Signature collection offers classic jean styles, rugged workwear and lots of other casual denim pieces at a lower price point.
Are Levi's® curvy friendly?
We strive to make denim pieces that celebrate and flatter all bodies, shapes and aesthetics in a wide range of sizes. Levi’s® curvy cuts are designed to be smaller in the waist and stretchier through the hips and thighs, accentuating your natural shape while reflecting the classic style and heritage that have defined our brand for over 150 years.
What is the most classic Levi’s® model?
The 501® Original is our first, so, arguably, it's the most classic Levi's® model—and the blueprint for modern jeans everywhere. In 1873, this denim icon began as durable workwear and quickly rose to prominence as a global style staple worn by rebels, rock stars, pop culture icons and everyday tastemakers—but never worn the same. With their flattering straight-leg fit, button fly and signature red tab, 501® Originals are as relevant today as they were when they debuted.
Our 501® jeans, in particular, are known for their high-quality construction that can last generations, acquiring unique fades and wear patterns, becoming softer and more comfortable and serving as a perfect canvas for customization. Tailor or cuff them, add rips or distressing or apply patches and other artwork to take them to the next level. Our 501® jeans only get better with time.
A true symbol of self-expression and authenticity, Levi’s® 501® Original and its subsequent iterations have become a favorite of vintage collectors, style influencers and sustainability-conscious fans who value longevity over fast fashion trends. Timeless in every way, it’s no surprise that 501® jeans remain one of the most classic and enduring styles in our rich history.
What is the difference between Levi’s® slim and skinny fit?
Levi’s® 511™ Slim Fit jeans sit slightly lower at the waist with a streamlined, tailored look and more ankle room. By contrast, the Levi’s® 510™ Skinny Fit offers a tighter, sleeker feel, hugging from hip to ankle.
Finding the right cut and fit in your Levi’s® jeans lets you feel your most comfortable while expressing your personal style. So, if you're still unsure about whether skinny or slim is the one for you, here's a more detailed breakdown of the slight-but-notable differences in their silhouettes, fits and construction:
SILHOUETTE: The tightest, most form-fitting cut through the entire leg, creating a “second skin” effect.
FIT: Sits at the waist and fits snugly through the hips, legs and ankles.
CONSTRUCTION: Typically made with durable, high-stretch denim.
FIT: Sits at the waist and fits snugly through the hips, legs and ankles.
CONSTRUCTION: Typically made with durable, high-stretch denim.
SILHOUETTE: A close-fitting appearance with a straight leg, providing a tailored look that’s not too tight.
FIT: Sits below the waist and fits snugly through the hips and legs with more room around the ankles.
CONSTRUCTION: Available in no-stretch, low-stretch and high-stretch denim.
FIT: Sits below the waist and fits snugly through the hips and legs with more room around the ankles.
CONSTRUCTION: Available in no-stretch, low-stretch and high-stretch denim.
What is the difference between Levi’s® jean numbers?
Levi’s® jean numbers represent specific fits, rises, fly types and leg openings to help you find your ideal style and comfort. For example, the 501® Original is a high-rise classic with a button fly, while the 511™ Slim is a low-rise slim fit with a zip fly and straight leg.
Historically, today’s Levi’s® product numbers were lot numbers used to track inventory. They’ve since evolved to refer to a particular fit or style. We’ve been using our signature three-digit numbering system for more than a century. The style number of your Levi’s® denim is more than just a label—it's a guide to finding the perfect pair that meets your personal style and comfort goals. Beginning with our classic 501® Originals, our style numbers have indicated specifics about fit (regular, relaxed, slim, skinny, loose & baggy, athletic, etc.), rise (high rise, mid rise, low rise, etc.), fly (button or zip) and leg opening (bootcut, straight leg, tapered, cropped, etc.). Here are a few of our most popular style numbers and their details:
Historically, today’s Levi’s® product numbers were lot numbers used to track inventory. They’ve since evolved to refer to a particular fit or style. We’ve been using our signature three-digit numbering system for more than a century. The style number of your Levi’s® denim is more than just a label—it's a guide to finding the perfect pair that meets your personal style and comfort goals. Beginning with our classic 501® Originals, our style numbers have indicated specifics about fit (regular, relaxed, slim, skinny, loose & baggy, athletic, etc.), rise (high rise, mid rise, low rise, etc.), fly (button or zip) and leg opening (bootcut, straight leg, tapered, cropped, etc.). Here are a few of our most popular style numbers and their details:
Our original jeans, known for their high rise, regular fit, button fly and straight leg.
A tailored look without the trip to the tailor. This modern alternative to the classic straight fit sits below the waist and features extra room in the thigh and a taper through the leg and ankle. Fun fact: Historically, a 502™ jean referred to a larger-sized 501® Original before it became its own distinct fit.
Our renowned zip-fly jeans featuring a mid rise, roomy fit and straight leg. Levi’s® zip-fly jeans have come a long way. The short-lived 501®Z, released in 1954, was our first zippered jean, but the fabric was shrink-to-fit and the zipper often puckered. Today’s 505™ jeans benefit from modern processes and design for an easy fit with every pair.
Versatile and modern with a rise that sits lower on your waist, a slim fit through the hip and thigh and a slim straight leg.
A timeless and utilitarian style that sits at the waist and fits slim through the thigh before widening from knee to ankle to accommodate boots (or whatever is on your feet).
Casual and comfortable, featuring more room than our 501® Original and a slight taper at the leg for a baggy-but-not-sloppy look.
What's the difference between Levi’s® and Levi’s® Signature?
The Levi's® brand was founded in 1853 and manufactured its first products 20 years later in 1873. (Those would be the 501® Original jeans you keep hearing about, though they were called "waist overalls" at the time.) Nowadays, Levi’s® can be found online, at premium retailers, in department stores, among thift and vintage shops and anywhere else denimheads search for the perfect fit. Levi’s® Signature was established in 2003 to offer the same attention to detail at a more affordable price in mass-market stores and outlets.
Remaining faithful to the high standards of the classic Levi’s® brand, each Signature piece features reinforced seams, updated fabrics and comfortable finishes.
Remaining faithful to the high standards of the classic Levi’s® brand, each Signature piece features reinforced seams, updated fabrics and comfortable finishes.
What is the difference between Levi’s® DENIZEN and Signature?
Both Signature by Levi Strauss & Co.™ and Levi’s® DENIZEN were created with affordability and style in mind. Levi’s® DENIZEN was launched in 2011 to appeal to a younger generation of denim lovers who value style, fit and quality. Meanwhile, the Signature line hit the market in 2003, designed to appeal to denimheads of all ages with the same style options and attention to detail at a budget-friendly price point.Signature by Levi Strauss & Co.™ and DENIZEN from Levi’s® are two distinct lines that honor the history and heritage of the greater Levi’s® brand while expanding access to our quality denim for a broader range of fans. They share a focus on comfort, durability, high-quality construction, the authentic Levi's® look and feel and a value-conscious price point. Both were found primarily at mass-market retailers, such as Target, Walmart, Kmart and Amazon.In January 2024, we began phasing out the DENIZEN® line. However, some DENIZEN® styles may still be available at select retailers while supplies last.
What Levi’s® jeans are regular fit?
Our most popular regular fit has a name that says it all: the 505™ Regular. Its defining characteristics include:
• A special zip fly, created for 505™ Regulars in 1967
• Sitting at or just below the waist
• Roomy fit through the waist and thigh
• Straight leg through the knee and ankle with a straight-leg opening
• Available in a variety of colors, dyes, fabrics and stretch levels
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What Levi’s® style number is straight?
The following Levi’s® style numbers are cut with a straight-fit leg:
• 501® Original Jeans (Men’s & Women’s)
• 505™ Regular Fit Jeans
• 506™ Comfort Straight Jeans
• 513™ Slim Straight Jeans
• 514™ Straight Fit Jeans
• 555™ Relaxed Straight Jeans
• 505™ Regular Fit Jeans
• 506™ Comfort Straight Jeans
• 513™ Slim Straight Jeans
• 514™ Straight Fit Jeans
• 555™ Relaxed Straight Jeans
• 559™ Relaxed Straight Fit Jeans
• 565™ Loose Straight Jeans
• 568™ Loose Straight Jeans
• 314 Shaping Straight Women’s Jeans
• 701® 1950s Women’s Jeans
• 724 High-Rise Straight Women’s Jeans
• 565™ Loose Straight Jeans
• 568™ Loose Straight Jeans
• 314 Shaping Straight Women’s Jeans
• 701® 1950s Women’s Jeans
• 724 High-Rise Straight Women’s Jeans
What do the numbers mean on Levi’s® jeans?
At Levi's®, our iconic three-digit numbering system serves as a guide to the distinct fit and style of our denim pieces. Historically, our modern product numbers were once lot numbers, used to track inventory and products. Today, each style number series represents a different design philosophy. For example, the Levi's® 500 Series offers timeless, heritage-inspired aesthetics; our 300 series focuses on shaping and comfort and our 700 series represents modern silhouettes. More info below:
Many of our most iconic styles are part of the 500 series. These jeans are rooted in tradition and reflect the enduring legacy we’ve fostered for more than 150 years. From the pioneering 501® Originals to the versatile 505™ Regulars and beyond, 500 series pieces prioritize classic cuts, straight legs and heritage details.
The 300 series focuses on comfort and contouring. Constructed with innovative stretch denim and supportive panels to smooth, sculpt and highlight your body’s natural curves, pieces like the 311 Shaping Skinnys and the 315 Shaping Bootcuts provide just the right amount of enhancement without losing their genuine, characteristically Levi’s®-jean feel.
The Levi's® 700 series is a historical nod to our first women’s jean, the 701 jean, first introduced in 1934. These days, the 700 series have become the ultimate right-now jeans. Featuring high and ultra-high rises and modern leg cuts, styles like the 721 High-Rise Skinny and the 724 High-Rise Straight are all about contemporary style and confidence-boosting silhouettes. Flattering, on-trend and built to hold their shape wear after wear, the 700 series delivers on quality, comfort and style.
What number is Levi’s® slim fit?
Our slim fit jeans are available in a wide range of styles. They’re characterized by their narrow, slim or tapered leg and leg opening, while offering a number of fits through the hip and thigh. The following Levi's® style numbers are cut with a slim leg:
• Ribcage Straight Ankle Women’s Jeans
• Ribcage Wide Leg Women’s Jeans
• Ribcage Bell Vintage Women’s Jeans
• Ribcage Bermuda Women’s Shorts
• Ribcage Wide Leg Tailored Women’s Jeans
• Mile High Wide Leg Women's Jeans
• Ribcage Wide Leg Women’s Jeans
• Ribcage Bell Vintage Women’s Jeans
• Ribcage Bermuda Women’s Shorts
• Ribcage Wide Leg Tailored Women’s Jeans
• Mile High Wide Leg Women's Jeans
• Mile High Super Skinny Women's Jeans
• 720 High-Rise Super Skinny Women's Jeans
• 721 High-Rise Skinny Stretch Women's Jeans
• 724 High-Rise Straight Women's Jeans
• 725 High-Rise Bootcut Women's Jeans
• 726 High-Rise Flare Women's Jeans
• 720 High-Rise Super Skinny Women's Jeans
• 721 High-Rise Skinny Stretch Women's Jeans
• 724 High-Rise Straight Women's Jeans
• 725 High-Rise Bootcut Women's Jeans
• 726 High-Rise Flare Women's Jeans
Does Levi’s® have a curve line?
While we don’t have a dedicated curve line, we design our fits for as many body shapes as possible. Many of our most popular Levi’s® pieces and lines, like the shaping 300 series and the modern 700 series, are also available in inclusive plus sizes. We are wholly committed to providing high-quality, comfortable denim that flatters real bodies in all their forms.
Because no two bodies are the same, our denim is made to move with you and mold to you—so you can feel comfortable and confident.We also offer a range of rises (low, mid, high), silhouettes (skinny, slim, straight, relaxed, loose, baggy) and leg shapes (skinny, slim, tapered, straight, bootcut, flare, wide) so you can express your personal style—or styles. Whether you prefer jeans that hug your curves—like our asset-enhancing Wedgie jeans—or ones that offer a little more breathing room—like our Baggy Dad jeans—you’ll be able to find a Levi’s® fit that makes you feel like your truest and best self.
Which Levi’s® jeans are low rise?
Our low- and superlow-rise jeans sit below your natural waistline, resting comfortably around your hips to convey a casual, laid-back vibe. These are some of our favorite low-rise Levi’s® of the moment:
• Low Loose Women’s Jeans
• Superlow Bootcut Women’s Jeans
• Superlow Flare Women’s Jeans
• Superlow Skinny Women’s Jeans
• Seamed Superlow Bootcut Women’s Jeans
• Superlow Flare Women’s Pants
• Superlow Bootcut Women’s Jeans
• Superlow Flare Women’s Jeans
• Superlow Skinny Women’s Jeans
• Seamed Superlow Bootcut Women’s Jeans
• Superlow Flare Women’s Pants
What does Levi’s® mid rise mean?
We designed our mid-rise women’s jeans to sit comfortably at or just below the natural waist, offering a versatile fit that flatters a wide range of bodies and sizes. Here are a few of our favorite mid-rise styles:
A looser take on our 501® Originals, inspired by the decade that did it best. These feature a mid rise, a little more room in the hips and seat and a loose, straight leg.
In shaping and smoothing stretch denim, this fit has a mid rise, skinny leg and innovative tummy-shaping panel.
This pair also features sleek, shaping denim, a mid rise and tummy-shaping panel, but is cut with a slim leg.
A mid rise with cheeky, curve-hugging construction—designed to lift your backside.
A versatile and flattering straight-leg jean that sits at the waist and features a relaxed, straight cut through the hip, thigh and ankle.