Levi’s adds new twist to an old favourite: 501
THERE are few more iconic jeans styles than the Levi’s 501. Recently, the brand launched an updated, slimmer version of the pair, the 501 Skinny.
Sporting skinny legs, the 501s still have that vintage look. As Candace Gilowey, who is the marketing lead (Africa, Middle East and Pakistan) for Levi’s says these are for “anyone who loves the 501 heritage and fit but is looking for a slimmer leg”. “This is not just another skinny jean, this is a vintage inspired update on the 501 from the brand that invented the blue jean. I see a younger generation, who appreciate originality, adopting this as their own new favourite stand out skinny.”
In recent years, slimmer legs have become a must-have in everyone’s wardrobe from fashionistas to regular Joes. So that’s not too difficult a requirement to hunt down in stores. But what are the other things you should be looking out for when it comes to looking for the perfect pair of jeans? Gilowey gave us a few tips.
FIT
Fit refers to the way that a pair of jeans sits on your body. Gilowey says: “Fit is everything, it is important to try multiple jeans styles on if you are unsure – the best fitting for your particular body shape will help you look slimmer and elongated.”
“Jeans come in many different rise heights and especially for women, depending on your shape, a very low rise or a high rise may suit you better. I would recommend a good quality denim to help give a good fit which does not lead to sagging at the butt or knee.”
She adds: “The 501 Skinny adds an authentic offering to this style occasion with a great fit and all the typical 501 features.”
FABRIC
Whether lightweight or heavy or even stretch or no stretch, anything goes when it comes to the kind of fit you can buy. While stretch jeans are better for those who aren’t at their goal yet, it’s really a matter of preference. As Gilowey explains: “Since the first pair of riveted ‘waist overalls’ from Levi’s were given the 501 designation around 1890, the jeans have actually changed significantly.”
“They have gained pockets and lost cinches. The fit has expanded and contracted according to the style of the era. Traditionally 501s have come in a rigid non-stretch denim and we have now added a low stretch option because people’s expectations change over time and for anything to remain relevant there must be change. By adding stretch, you get a little bit more comfort.”
FINISH
When we talk about finish we mean how the jeans look as the end product. Are they light or do they have a pop of colour? Do they have rips? It’s easy to find what’s best for you if you take Gilowey’s advice. “The usual starting point is to figure out what occasion the jeans are going to be for” she advises. “This will help determine the potential style to go for, and even the finish. Dark tends to be more flattering and formal.”
FEATURES
The features are the cherry on top. These are the details that are buried in the styling. Again, this all comes down to the taste of the person buying the jeans. “Most jeans today come with a zip but we have remained true to the button fly as one of the iconic features of the 501 jean,” says Gilowey.
In addition to these four tips, it’s always advisable to have at least one classic dark blue or black pair of jeans that you can dress up or down depending on the occasion.
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