When Mr. Levis Strauss created a pair of riveted work pants in 1873, he had no idea that the world’s asses would be sporting his now legendary 501 jeans. From James Dean to Andy Warhol and Marylin Monroe, who nurtured its legend, the 501 has led a truly unique existence. Now a style icon, they’re more than just jeans – they’re a cultural phenomenon. Celebrating its 140th anniversary this year, the 501 has evolved through the ages, endlessly reinventing itself thanks to the people who have worn it and brought it to life.
On the occasion of its anniversary last spring, the Levi’s brand launched a major campaign to pay tribute to the man who made its fame and its history. It was a campaign in which Levi’s fans, as well as celebrities from the worlds of fashion, music and entertainment, were invited to reappropriate this classic. Thousands of photos were sent in and posted on the levis501.com website, proving once again that the 501 jean can continue to be renewed and reinterpreted 140 years on.
That’s when the idea for the book was born. A limited edition book featuring a selection of the most cutting-edge styles from around the world, the most beautiful interpretations of the 501 jean. So it’s no coincidence that 501 photos were chosen. They include the band M83, actress Kate Bosworth, designer Olympia Le Tan, graffiti artist André Saraiva, dandy designer Vincent Darré, the French editor-in-chief of Jalouse magazine and many other Levi’s ambassadors of a day or a lifetime. The photos are also accompanied by self-portraits of fans from all over the world, demonstrating their unconditional love for their favorite jeans.
The LEVI’S 501 Interpretations book, scheduled for release on August 1, will be a limited edition of 501 numbered copies, each with a unique cover photo. It will be available in Levi’s stores worldwide, as well as online at levi.com, for €50. All proceeds from sales will be donated to students at the California College of the Arts in San Francisco.
What’s your interpretation of the 501? The Levi’s 501 today, tomorrow and forever!
Cette publication est également disponible en : Français (French)
