Levi’s 501 — The Original Blue Jean, Still Undefeated

The Levi’s 501 has been in continuous production since 1873, when it was patented as workwear reinforced with copper rivets — it’s not an exaggeration to say every pair of blue jeans made since owes something to this cut.

The straight leg, button fly and sits-at-the-waist fit have barely changed in over a century, because there’s genuinely never been a reason to.

Raw or washed denim ages and softens to fit the wearer over time in a way cheaper stretch-blend jeans just don’t — a pair that’s been worn in for a year looks and fits better than the day you bought it.

It’s the jean that works as well with trainers and a t-shirt as it does dressed up with boots and a jacket — genuinely one size of wardrobe fits most occasions.