A classic pair of jeans is a staple in any wardrobe, and the king of all jeans is a classic pair of Levi’s. The OG 501 style turns 150 years old in 2023, and we are celebrating by sharing some wild and fun ways to style them.
Blue jeans as we know them were invented in 1873 by Levi Strauss. The number 501 came about as part of the manufacturing process, but no one knows why this number was chosen. The style has remained recognisable over the years, with the exception of a few modifications. Changes like adding belt loops, changing denim colours, and removing suspender buttons were made in an effort to keep up with changing fashions and social requirements like limited raw materials during the war. The trousers weren’t advertised as ‘jeans’ until 1960, when teenagers made the term popular, and 501 jeans for women weren’t introduced until 1981.
Of course, now Levi’s makes jeans in all different shapes and styles, meaning there are infinite ways to style them. Inspired by their rich history, we have found 10 cool and unique ways to wear jeans:
1. Mira Al-Momani, Stylist
London-based stylist Mira puts a spin on what would have otherwise been a very neutral and simple outfit with this bright yellow furry jacket. The leather panelling incorporates the brown tones in the bag, shoes, and bodysuit. The baggy mid-rise jeans add a relaxed feel to the outfit, which feels perfect for running around doing errands.
2. Amy Shehab, Designer
For this look, Amy has gone for a monochromatic double denim moment. The baggy jeans and oversized shirt are contrasted by the pointed court shoes and formal coat. The belt draws attention to her statement earrings and the contrast stitching on the denim, making the look more playful. The gloves add a layer of sophistication and are perfect for taking an outfit from day to night.
3. Sandra Shehab, Founder of Shee Cosmetics
This outfit is giving Carrie Bradshaw, especially as Sandra strolls through the streets of NYC. Despite consisting of just block colours, this outfit feels more sophisticated than simple. The white peplum top and black baguette bag are very 2000s and match with the slingbacks. The frayededge baggy jeans add a modern twist to the outfit, while the claw clip is a nod to the 90s.
Zara White Zip Top
4. Chloe Scantlebury, Model/Influencer
Chloe plays with colour in this look, using these low-rise straight-leg jeans as a base for her outfit. This Acne Studios asymmetric top is the perfect length to sit above the jeans, and the buttons create movement and flatter her waist. She matches her limited edition Marshall Columbia handbag with electric blue metallic wedges, proving that this is a versatile look that could be worn to go shopping or to the bar.
5. Amira Fystina Azouagh, Designer
Designer Amira makes a statement in these low-rise washed jeans. She has cuffed up the bottom to show off her indigo strappy heels, and she accessorises her torso with stacked gold belly chains. She is wearing just a black bralette under her reworked cropped Alpine Stars motor jacket and finishes off the look with sunglasses indoors— so cool.
6. Eva Apio, Model
Channelling model off-duty, Eva Apio rocks super dark-wash baggy jeans and an orange ensemble on the New York sidewalk. She shows off her insane figure in this skintight metallic orange one-shoulder top and matches the orange theme with a Fendi bucket bag and Rick Owens orange sneakers with statement laces.
7. Tems, Singer
Singer and songwriter Terms opted for these baggy, wide-leg jeans to show off her underwear waistband. She wears a matching Tommy Hilfiger set with a yellow Tommy windbreaker jacket. She ties together the red and black with black strappy heels and a dramatic gold belly chain decorated with elaborate charms.
8. Kenza Boutrif, Model
The model rocks these distressed light wash jeans, pairing them with a rare Louis Vuitton denim speedy. She adds bling to the outfit with a statement Vivienne Westwood pearl choker and bedazzled Diesel kitten heels. She wears a simple but cute pastel-coloured Loewe graphic tank and has a denim jacket on hand for when it inevitability gets cold.
9. Yewande Biala, Radio host, TV star
Former Love Island contestant Yewande brightened up the streets with this hot pink outfit. Not only does this look extremely put together, it also looks very comfy. Her pink fur hat and longline coat match the pink check on her shirt, which is unbuttoned to show off her impressive abs. The ultra-wide leg jeans add a casual element to the outfit, and the western-style belt and chain tie it in with her chunky rings.
10. Sofia Coelho, Influencer
With the same vibe as the last look, Sofia paired super baggy light wash jeans with a dramatic cropped pink jacket. Her sweatband and over-ear headphones give the same energy as any paparazzi picture of Princess Diana running errands, although the white lace-up heeled boots probably aren’t the most practical.
Words by: Lucy Walshe
Header Image: Yewande Biala
