The Guide to Shopping at Levi’s

About Levi’s

Levi’s, a globally renowned denim brand, has been synonymous with quality craftsmanship and iconic style since its inception in 1853. Founded by Levi Strauss, the brand has become a cornerstone of American fashion, celebrated for its durable jeans and timeless designs. Levi’s offers a wide range of denim options, from classic fits like the 501 to modern silhouettes like the 511 and 512, catering to diverse preferences and body types.

Shopping at Levi’s involves more than just selecting a pair of jeans—it’s about embracing a heritage of innovation and authenticity. Understanding Levi’s signature fits is key; whether you prefer a relaxed, straight leg or a slim, tapered fit, Levi’s has a style to suit every individual. Beyond denim, Levi’s also offers a variety of apparel including jackets, shirts, and accessories, all reflecting the brand’s commitment to quality and heritage.

When shopping at Levi’s, explore their range of washes and finishes to find the perfect look. From raw and rigid denim for the purists to pre-washed and distressed options for a lived-in feel, Levi’s ensures there’s a style for every occasion. Additionally, take advantage of Levi’s customization services available in select stores, allowing you to personalize your denim with alterations like hemming or tapering for a bespoke fit.

Whether you’re a longtime Levi’s enthusiast or new to the brand, shopping at Levi’s is an experience that celebrates timeless style and individual expression. Keep an eye out for special collections and collaborations that showcase Levi’s innovative spirit and cultural relevance. By embracing Levi’s rich history and craftsmanship, you can discover denim and apparel that resonate with your personal style and values.

The Strategist Guide to Shopping at Levi’s

Navigating the vast selection of Levi’s products can be daunting, especially with over 400 styles of jeans alone, each available in numerous washes and fits. To help narrow down the choices, we’ve compiled a curated list of Levi’s garments recommended by celebrity stylists, denim experts, podcasters, plus-size models, stylish teens, and our own writers and editors here at the Strategist. This selection highlights the standout pieces that have garnered praise for their quality, fit, and style.

Whether you’re looking for wide-leg, high-rise, or skinny-fit jeans, our list covers Levi’s offerings that have resonated with diverse tastes and preferences. Each recommended item comes in various colors and washes, ensuring there’s something for everyone. To provide you with the best options, we’ve included two retailers whenever possible, allowing you to access a broader range of Levi’s styles and designs.By leveraging the insights and recommendations from our trusted sources, including fashion insiders and Levi’s enthusiasts, you can navigate the Levi’s inventory more efficiently and confidently find the perfect pair of jeans or other Levi’s garment that suits your style and preferences.

For women

Levi’s Wedgie Fit Ankle Jeans

The Wedgie High-Rise Jeans from Levi’s are not only highly recommended by us at the Strategist, but they have also received widespread acclaim as one of the top choices in women’s jeans across the board. Praised for their flattering high waist and tapered legs, these jeans are versatile and complement various body types, earning praise from almost everyone who has tried them. Strategist editor Maxine Builder considers them her “go-to, everyday jeans,” highlighting their ability to enhance the figure while remaining comfortable and effortless to wear. Liza Curtiss, co-founder of Le Whit, is also a fan, especially in black, noting how well they pair with her favorite boots and appreciate their deep pockets.

The Wedgie High-Rise Jeans are not just popular with seasoned fashionistas but also resonate strongly with younger demographics like teens. Influencer Lola Keyser prefers the Wedgie style, describing it as a chic “mom-style pair” that strikes a balance between trendiness and comfort. With such universal acclaim and endorsements from diverse individuals, the Wedgie High-Rise Jeans from Levi’s stand out as a must-have wardrobe staple for those seeking style, comfort, and versatility in their denim collection.

Levi’s Wedgie Straight-Leg Jean

The Levi’s Wedgie Straight Jeans are just as beloved as their tapered counterpart, known for their straighter leg that offers a modern twist on the classic mom jean style. Praised for their universal appeal on various body types, these jeans have made waves for their flattering fit and comfortable feel. Sara Zucker, director of social media at KORRES, appreciates their slightly slimmer leg compared to traditional mom jeans, giving them a more contemporary silhouette.

Jennifer Mankins, founder of Bird clothing, highlights the appeal of the Wedgie Straight Jeans for their resemblance to the ideal vintage 501s, featuring a perfect straight leg with a modern cut. The high rise is described as just right by Mankins, with a subtle stretch that adds comfort without compromising on the authentic vintage look, as noted by Joyce Lee from Madewell. Dianna Cohen, founder of Crown Affair, swears by these jeans for daily wear, emphasizing their comfort even during extended periods at home.

Celebrity stylist Ali Levine appreciates the modern yet classic fit of the Wedgie Straight Jeans, while Allie Greenberg, brand director at Richer Poorer, highlights their inclusivity with inseam options catering to shorter heights. Whether you’re looking for a versatile everyday pair or a reliable work-from-home staple, the Levi’s Wedgie Straight Jeans offer style, comfort, and durability, making them a standout choice for denim enthusiasts across the board.

Levi’s Women’s Plus-Size Wedgie Jeans

The Plus-Size Wedgie Jeans from Levi’s have earned high praise from model Felicity Hayward, who commends them for their exceptional style and quality. Hayward describes the sizing of these jeans in one word: “perfect,” highlighting their ideal fit for plus-size figures. She emphasizes the versatility of these jeans, noting that they can be styled casually with sneakers for a laid-back look or dressed up with pointed stilettos to create a more elongated and sophisticated silhouette.

The endorsement from Felicity Hayward underscores the inclusive and stylish appeal of Levi’s Plus-Size Wedgie Jeans, which cater to diverse body shapes while maintaining the brand’s commitment to quality and fashion-forward design. Whether you’re seeking comfort, versatility, or a flattering fit, these jeans offer a chic option for every occasion, making them a standout choice in the realm of plus-size denim.

Levi’s Women’s Dad Jeans

Designer Susan Alexandra expresses her elation after 34 years of searching for the perfect jeans, finally discovering the oversize, relaxed-fit Levi’s that she considers a game-changer. Noting their frequent sell-outs, Alexandra underscores their popularity as a wardrobe staple and an excellent alternative to vintage denim. She personally tailored hers for a customized look reminiscent of flea market finds in Berlin, enhancing their unique charm and fit.

College student Sylvie Nelson also vouches for these jeans, describing them as an essential component of her comfortable stay-at-home ensemble that still exudes a cute and stylish vibe. The endorsement from both Alexandra and Nelson speaks volumes about the versatility and appeal of Levi’s oversize, relaxed-fit jeans, which seamlessly blend comfort with fashion-forward design. Whether you’re aiming for a laid-back yet chic aesthetic or seeking the elusive perfect pair of jeans, these Levi’s jeans deliver on both style and comfort, making them a must-have addition to any wardrobe.

Levi’s Mile High Super Skinny Jeans

The enthusiasm expressed by Strategist writer Jenna Milliner-Waddell, artist Lucy Litman, and Rachel Bullock for Levi’s Mile High Super Skinny Jeans underscores several key features and benefits of these jeans.Jenna Milliner-Waddell’s endorsement is particularly passionate, describing her experience with these jeans as akin to “love at first sight.” She highlights their exceptional fit, noting that they do not gap at the waist and offer just the right amount of stretch to comfortably accommodate the hips while retaining a vintage-inspired rigid denim texture. Importantly, Milliner-Waddell emphasizes that despite their stretchiness, these jeans do not stretch out over time, maintaining their original shape and tightness at the waist.

Lucy Litman emphasizes the suitability of Levi’s Mile High Super Skinny Jeans for taller women like herself. She appreciates the perfect balance of stretch these jeans provide and notes the availability of extended lengths, catering to individuals with longer legs. Litman also praises the higher rise of the jeans, which complements those with longer torsos.

Rachel Bullock’s endorsement highlights the durability and ruggedness of these jeans, indicating that they can withstand demanding work environments, including “especially dirty” job sites. Bullock characterizes the jeans as feeling “indestructible,” suggesting they are well-suited for active use.Collectively, these testimonials emphasize the versatile appeal of Levi’s Mile High Super Skinny Jeans, particularly for their flattering fit, comfort, durability, and suitability across different body types and settings. Whether for everyday wear, work, or special occasions, these jeans appear to offer a combination of style and functionality that resonates with a diverse range of individuals.

Levi’s 501 Original Shorts

Former Strategist senior editor Casey Lewis swears by the shorts version of Levi’s 501 Women’s Jeans, citing them as an excellent choice for working from home when a full-length pair might feel too restrictive. Despite the allure of other Levi’s fits like Ribcage and Wedgie, Lewis opted for the classic 501s for their timeless appeal and comfort. She deliberately chose a size up to ensure extra comfort, and even purchased the longer knee-length version to customize them further herself.

Strategist contributor Maria Dueñas-Jacobs, founder of kids’ jewelry brand Super Smalls, also praises the 501 shorts, preferring to buy them vintage rather than new. Dueñas-Jacobs shares Lewis’s sentiment, expressing a love for denim that transcends trends and seasons, indicating that she can never have enough of these classic Levi’s shorts.The endorsements from both Lewis and Dueñas-Jacobs highlight the enduring popularity and versatility of Levi’s 501 Women’s Jeans in shorts form. Whether worn casually while working from home or styled effortlessly for everyday outings, these shorts offer a comfortable and classic denim option that appeals to denim enthusiasts seeking both style and practicality.

For men

Levi’s 501 ’93 Straight Men’s Jeans

In our Insider Goods series, we delved into achieving an authentic “yeehaw” style by speaking with cowboys, including Nick Villanueva, the public relations chair of the Colorado Gay Rodeo Association. Villanueva emphasized that tight-fitting jeans have long been a staple in cowboy fashion, and he highlighted the enduring popularity of Levi’s as the go-to brand for quality-fit denim. He noted that Levi’s jeans have been favored for decades, with interviews dating back to the 1980s consistently recommending them as essential attire for cowboy style.

According to Villanueva, Levi’s jeans continue to be the most worn and trusted choice among cowboys, reflecting their timeless appeal and exceptional fit. This endorsement underscores Levi’s reputation for providing durable, well-fitting jeans that not only embody Western authenticity but also withstand the demands of rodeo and ranch life. Whether you’re embracing cowboy fashion for rodeo events or simply appreciating the heritage of Western wear, Levi’s remains a trusted name synonymous with quality and style in the world of tight-fitting denim.

Levi’s Vintage Fit Trucker Jacket

When seeking recommendations from cyclists on the best men’s jackets for biking to work, Robert Evans, CEO of Cycling Quests, highlighted the classic Levi’s denim trucker jacket as his go-to choice. According to Evans, when the weather is dry and he’s in a relaxed mood, he pairs spandex shorts with a denim jacket layered on top. He praises Levi’s for their “iconic styling,” owning multiple Levi’s jean jackets and asserting that other brands simply don’t match up in terms of coolness.

Evans’s endorsement emphasizes the enduring appeal of Levi’s denim trucker jackets among cyclists, combining practicality with timeless fashion. The versatility and iconic look of Levi’s jackets make them a preferred option for those seeking comfort and style during bike commutes. Whether cruising through city streets or embracing a laid-back cycling vibe, Levi’s denim jackets offer a blend of functionality and fashion that resonates with cyclists like Evans who prioritize both performance and aesthetics.

Levi’s Vintage Clothing Bay Meadows Sweatshirt

The Levi’s crewneck sweatshirt has garnered widespread acclaim, evident from the enthusiastic recommendations of multiple individuals within the same week. Andrew Favorito, from Tatcha, lauds it as “the coziest, chicest sweatshirt” he’s ever owned, attributing its appeal to its vintage-inspired design modeled after a 1930s original. Favorito notes that the fit is unique with a slightly shorter torso, baggier silhouette, and looser neck, complemented by vintage detailing and stitching that contribute to its perfect look and feel.

Joshua Katz and Ben Starmer, co-founders of Dad Grass CBD brand, also sing praises for this Levi’s sweatshirt. Katz, a devoted fan, owns an impressive seven versions, while Starmer emphasizes the sweatshirt’s durability, having washed his two sweatshirts numerous times without compromising their appearance or comfort. Drew Westphal, a digital marketing professional, values the sweatshirt as his “go-to crewneck,” appreciating its simple and utilitarian design that effortlessly integrates into his everyday wardrobe.

The collective endorsement from Favorito, Katz, Starmer, and Westphal underscores the Levi’s crewneck sweatshirt as a standout piece loved for its unparalleled comfort, vintage-inspired aesthetic, and enduring quality. Whether you prioritize coziness, durability, or timeless style, this Levi’s sweatshirt is celebrated for its ability to meet and exceed expectations, making it a cherished wardrobe staple for individuals across various professions and lifestyles.

Levi’s 511 Slim-Fit Jeans

The Levi’s 511 is revered in the realm of slim-fit jeans, akin to how the 501 is esteemed for its straight-leg design—a true standard-bearer in denim. Menswear writer Tim Melideo considers the 511s a wardrobe essential, emphasizing their versatility and style. Stylist Brandon Garr also appreciates the 511s, particularly their affordability, which allows him to embrace a more daring approach without worrying excessively about replacement costs if they become worn.

Chef Jacques Torres values the accommodating stretch of the 511s, noting that they adapt well to slight weight fluctuations without sacrificing comfort. Torres draws an insightful analogy, comparing ill-fitting jeans to subpar kitchen knives: both hinder performance and should be swiftly replaced. His advice underscores the importance of prioritizing comfort and confidence in clothing choices, advocating for jeans that feel liberating rather than confining.

The collective endorsement from Melideo, Garr, and Torres highlights the Levi’s 511 as a reliable and adaptable choice for those seeking a slim-fit silhouette without compromising on quality or affordability. Whether for everyday wear or professional settings, the 511s exemplify Levi’s commitment to crafting denim that not only looks great but also enhances comfort and confidence—a sentiment echoed by individuals across different fields and lifestyles.

Conclusion

In conclusion, shopping at Levi’s offers a rich and diverse experience for denim enthusiasts and fashion-conscious individuals alike. With a vast inventory boasting over 400 styles of jeans alone, Levi’s caters to a wide range of tastes and preferences, from classic fits like the 501 and 511 to modern interpretations like the Wedgie and Ribcage. Navigating Levi’s denim selection involves understanding the unique characteristics of each fit, from the timeless straight-leg appeal of the 501 to the contemporary slim and tapered look of the 511. Levi’s commitment to quality craftsmanship ensures that each piece of denim embodies durability and style, making it a worthwhile investment for building a versatile wardrobe.

Moreover, Levi’s extends beyond jeans, offering a comprehensive range of apparel including jackets, shirts, and accessories. The iconic Levi’s trucker jackets, in particular, stand out for their timeless appeal and versatility. Collaborations and limited-edition collections further elevate Levi’s offerings, showcasing innovative designs that resonate with fashion enthusiasts. Whether you’re searching for a wardrobe staple or a statement piece, Levi’s remains a trusted brand synonymous with American heritage and contemporary style. Shopping at Levi’s is not just about buying clothes; it’s about embracing a cultural icon that continues to evolve while staying true to its roots in quality and craftsmanship.