MANILA, Philippines–The guys at Levi’s have thought of creative ways to breathe new life into its most iconic product that people have grown to love for over 140 years— the classic, straight-leg, 501 blue jeans.
The reinvented version, dubbed Levi’s 501 CT (customized and tapered) is cut slightly straighter at the waist and smaller in the seat, and offers a more tapered fit compared with the original 501. It still features the same authentic rips and distressed detailing at the knees.
Founded in 1853, the family-owned blue jeans pioneer has been a favorite fashion staple, from celebrities and rock stars to cowboys, miners and the average working Joe. Levi’s 501 has earned its status as the most coveted jeans in the world. It was the epitome of cool. Bruce Springsteen wore a pair for the cover of his album “Born in the USA.” And let’s not forget James Dean, who personified Levi’s 501.
Jonathan Cheung, senior vice president of design who joined the brand in 2009, told online site Business of Fashion that the 501 CT started off as a conversation with Karyn Hillman, Levi’s chief product officer.
“We’d go to the store, bump into people and discover popular alterations. For years, people have taken the iconic 501 and customized them by getting on a sewing machine and giving the legs a little taper. With the 501 CT, we’ve done that work for you,” said Cheung.
The newest variant comes in a number of washes like the Indigo Rigid and the White Light. It comes in varying levels of fade and distress, and can be worn in different ways: “down-sized” or one to two sizes smaller for a slim, modern fit; “true-to-size” or your actual size for a classic, regular fit; and “up-sized” or one to two sizes larger for a more relaxed fit.
With the 1990s making a resurgence in fashion, 501 CT is your definite sartorial staple for this season and beyond.