The Z Guide to Levi's Jeans— Levi's Numbers Explained
Nothing beats classic Levi's jeans, but it can be a bit of a learning curve understanding Levi's numbers. Regardless of what brand you're wearing, jeans shopping can be an overwhelming task. With so many styles and fits to choose from, it can feel overwhelming to find the right pair. Now add in some kooky numbers, and you're sure to be a bit confused— even if you're a Levi's purist.
To aid in your search for your next favorite pair of jeans, we're explaining what the numbers for Levi's jeans mean. Plus, we'll break down how the most popular styles of men's and women's Levi's jeans fit so you can shop Zeitgeist’s curated denim selection with confidence.
First, we need to break down four variables that affect the way your Levi's jeans (and all other jeans btw) fit.
When they're just numbers on paper, it can be difficult to imagine how these measurements fit on your body. We recommend measuring a few of your favorite pairs of jeans and jotting down your ideal measurements. Use your reference sheet— and a measuring tape, if you're shopping IRL—the next time you go jeans shopping.
Rise
Rise refers to how high the jeans come up on your waist and hip. It is measured from the middle of the crotch seam to the top of the waistband.
Leg
Leg refers to the overall fit of the pant legs. A slim leg would hug your thighs and legs, while a straight leg would skim your figure. You'll often boyfriend jeans described as having a relaxed leg.
Leg Opening
Leg opening refers to the circumference of the bottom of the pant leg. This measurement helps you determine how wide they will appear at the bottom. For example, a pair of women's skinny jeans typically have a leg opening of 10" to 12", while a pair of flared jeans measures 21" to 27".
Fit
Fit is the most important to look at because—as the name suggests— it gives you a feel for the overall fit of the jeans. Levi's typically uses three different fits: slim, regular, and relaxed.
Slim fit and skinny jeans hug your legs, while regular fit styles—like straight leg jeans— comfortably skim them. Relaxed styles, such as boyfriend jeans or baggies, are loose on the body.
To make jeans shopping easier than ever, we’ve explained the meaning behind Levi's numbers and broken down the most popular styles of Levi's jeans and how they fit.
Levi's Fits That Start with 5
Levi's 500 series jeans are the OGs of the denim industry. These timeless classic fits never go out of style and are a worthy addition to any wardrobe. While initially designed for men, many of the 500 series have now been adopted by women.
The Original Levi's Jeans: The 501
High rise, relaxed fit, straight leg
Levi's 501s are the OG style of jeans. Designed in 1873 by Levi Strauss himself, the now-iconic style was created for working men who needed pants that could withstand tough working conditions. Over the past 130 years, they've become synonymous with classic American style.
501s feature a traditional button fly and heavyweight non-stretch denim. The timeless style has a straight leg and a relaxed fit through the hip and thigh. Because these jeans are typically made with non-stretch heavyweight denim, ladies will need to size up at least one to two sizes for a relaxed, boyfriendy look.
The Gentleman’s Choice: The 502
Regular rise, regular fit, tapered leg
Levi's 502s are nearly identical to Levi's 501s. The only difference is that the 502 jeans have a slightly more tapered leg and a bit more room in the thighs. They have a refined look that doesn't sacrifice comfort.
The tapered leg gives 502s a refined look that's easy to dress or down. Plus, they look great cuffed with boots or casual summer sneakers. Try them in a crisp dark wash for a versatile jean that doesn't feel too casual.
The Rock-and-Roll Approved Pair: The 505
Medium rise, relaxed fit, straight leg
Levi's 505 jeans have a similar fit than 501s, only a tad more relaxed. They have a slightly roomy fit with a straight leg and a zip fly.
The 505 style—first released in 1967—marked a turning point for the Levi Strauss brand. In 1971, the jeans were featured on the cover of the Rolling Stones' Sticky Fingers album. Though Levi's jeans were once just functional work pants, they were quickly becoming a cornerstone of the modern wardrobe.
The Classic Skinny Jean: The 510
Low rise, slim fit, skinny leg
510s were one of the first skinny jeans Levi's ever created. The contemporary style has remained one of the brand's most popular fits ever since. If there's one pair of Levi's skinny jeans men should own, it's these bad boys.
Levi's 510 jeans have a skinny fit with a tight-fitting leg and skinny leg opening.
The Reliable Slim-Fit:
The 511
Low rise, regular fit, slim leg
Levi's describes the fit of their beloved 511 jeans as "not too skinny and not too loose." The modern fit is slim through the thigh and straight throughout, with a rise that sits just below your waist. Most pairs have a classic button-fly.
The Comfortable Skinny Jeans: The 512
Low rise, slim fit, tapered leg
Levi's 512 jeans have a slimmer leg than the 511s. The style is inspired by tailored slim-leg trousers, giving them a sleek, contemporary look. They sit below the waist with a tapered leg and a skinny leg opening.
Levi's 512s are perfect for the guy who likes skinny jeans but still wants to be comfortable.
The Lanky Fit: The 513
Regular rise, slim fit, straight leg
513s have a versatile slim leg and a straight fit. The medium-weight denim has a bit of stretch to keep the tailored fit comfortable. They're a modern choice that's perfect for pairing with a blazer and button-up in a business casual office.
Levi's says their 513 fit is best for "slim, athletic builds," meaning they're great for long, lanky guys who don't want a super skinny fit.
The Most Comfortable:
The
514
Regular rise, regular fit, straight leg
Levi's 514s aren't too different from the 505 or the 511 fits. They have a straight leg, classic fit, and sit right below the waist.
Many styles have a bit of stretch, making them super comfortable and easy to wear. They're perfect for the guy who wants to look stylish but doesn't like to wear uncomfortable skinny jeans.
The Farmer's Favorite:
The 527
Regular rise, regular fit, boot cut leg
527s are Levi's original boot cut jeans. The style was originally designed for ranch hands and cowboys who needed a wider leg opening that fit over their boots.
Levi's 527 jeans are slim through the seat and thigh and sit right at your waist. They have a zip fly and classic 5-pocket styling.
The Gym Rat Approved Jean: The 541
Regular rise, relaxed fit, tapered leg
Levi's 541 jeans were designed with athletes and gym rats in mind. They have a tapered fit that accentuated an athletic build without being too fitted. 541s have extra room through the seat and thighs for men who don't skip leg day. The relaxed fit and heavyweight denim will ensure you don't bust through your jeans— no matter how hard you flex.
The Old-School Relaxed Fit:
The 550
Regular rise, relaxed fit, slim leg
Introduced in 1985, Levi's 550s are the ultimate dad jean. Comfortable, relaxed, and timeless, they're a staple in Average Joe's wardrobes everywhere.
550s are slightly baggy through the hips and seat with a medium rise and slightly tapered leg. They have a roomier fit than classic 501s.
Levi's Fits That Start with 7
Levi's signature 'Lot 700' features skinny fits that flatter, smooth, and lift every size and shape with added stretch.
The Super Skinny Jean:
The
710
Medium rise, slim fit, skinny leg
710s have the skinniest leg of Levi's signature 'Lot 700' fits. The sleek mid-rise fit is known for being flattering, making them of Levi's best-selling styles. Thanks to stretch cotton and a zip fly, they're still comfortable enough for all-day wear.
The Versatile Skinny:
The 711
Medium rise, slim fit, skinny leg
Levi's considered the 711 to be their "classic skinny jeans." They're slightly less fitted than the super skinny 710s and have a mid-rise and skinny leg that makes them extremely versatile.
The Basic High Rise:
The 721
High rise, slim fit, skinny leg
Levi's 721s are one of Levi's most popular fits from their iconic 700 series. The waist-defining style is a flattering choice variety of body shapes. Their medium-weight cotton fabric has a touch of stretch and an easy zip fly that makes them flattering and comfortable.
721s are slim through the hips and thighs, with a skinny fit that has a leg-lengthening effect. They have a higher rise than 710s or 711s.
Other Popular Styles of Levi's Jeans
The Most Universally Flattering Levi’s Jeans: The Wedgie
High rise, regular fit, tapered leg
Levi's wedgie jeans are a booty-lifting, curve-flattering, feminine take on classic vintage Levi's. They have the same button fly, heavyweight non-stretch denim, and 5-pocket styling as the brand's OG 501s.
Their high rise, straight leg, and snug-fit are specially designed to lift and flatter your best assets. They also come in a skinny fit that has a slightly smaller leg opening.
The Highest Rise:
The Ribcage
High rise, relaxed fit, loose leg
The ribcage fit is Levi's highest rise yet. Inspired by classic 90s 501 jeans, the ribcage style is fitted through the hip and thigh with a classic straight leg. They use non-stretch midweight denim with a button fly and 5-pocket styling.
Their high rise and button fly define your waist and elongate your legs, making these a flattering take on vintage mom jeans. Levi's ribcage jeans now come in a variety of styles, including straight, cropped flare, split flare, and pleated crop.
The Figure-Flattering Fit: The Mile High Super Skinny
High rise, skinny fit, skinny leg
The Mile High Super Skinny fit is exactly what it sounds like: high rise with a skinny leg. Their super-stretchy fabric makes them super comfortable despite their ultra-slim fit.
The 80s Inspired Fit:
The Balloon
High rise, loose fit, tapered leg
A modern take on a classic 80's fit, Levi's balloon jeans are a must-have for 2021. Levi's describes them as having a "flattering high rise with a dramatic curve at the hip that tapers at the leg." The combination of a high-rise waist and loose tapered leg makes your legs look longer.
With Zeitgeist's curated selection of vintage Levi's jeans, you can wear your favorite styles of Levi's while saving the planet and supporting Seattle communities.
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