Although I own roughly 15 pairs of different jeans, I have a confession to make—I’ve never worn a pair of Levi’s. I know, I know, crazy right? As a fashion editor for over a decade, you would think I would own one of the most iconic denim brands of all time. I’ve admired them on other people for so long, I’ve even had them in my saved baskets online, but I’ve never gone through with actually securing a pair.
Now, as someone in my 30s, I’m stuck with the dilemma of not knowing which style to actually invest in. I’ve heard the Ribcage straight-leg pairs are the dream fit, I know that vintage Levi’s denim always looks effortless but I have no idea which pair I would pick. Which is why I chatted to some of my fellow fashion people (who are mega Levi’s fans, FYI) to see what all the fuss is about.
I’ve come to the conclusion, if you want to wear Levi’s jeans then stick to these 5 types below. Now, excuse me while I make up for lost time and order them all.
Style Notes: Karina is on a mission to find trousers and jeans that suit curves, and when I asked the style influencer if she has a favourite pair of Levi’s, she was quick to answer: “The Levi’s Ribcage jeans are my most worn pair of denim ever.” And when it comes to why, Karina says, “They fit like a dream and are one of the few pairs of jeans that I don’t need a belt with because they have a great fit on the waist and over my hips/bum.”
Style Notes: With a penchant for pre-loved pieces, I knew content creator Charlotte Illidge would have some tips for finding the best vintage denim. These being to 1) know your measurements, “When searching, be as specific as you can and use filters to help you find the colour you’re looking for. It’s definitely helpful to know your key measurements—waist, hips, inside leg length— but, I’d also recommend measuring a favourite pair of your own jeans to compare against.” And Charlotte’s second tip is make them fit you, “Don’t be afraid to tailor! A lot of pairs you’ll find will be 100% cotton so they don’t have any stretch. Some of the best jeans I’ve found whilst hunting have been too big for me. If you’re unsure if something will fit, you’re better off getting a bigger size and then tailoring them to fit you.”
Style Notes: French girls seem to have a thing for Levi’s 501s, but Léna has stepped away from the classic in favour of baggier styles. “The high loose-fit jeans are my favourite pair of jeans of all time! They’re the ones that make me say goodbye to skinny jeans and I wear them on repeat as I love the comfort, the 90’s slouchy style and the attitude they give all my outfits.”
These have no back pockets so they’re an extra sleek fit—genius.
Love the slightly cropped length to show off great shoes.
This berry shade feels so fresh for new season—just add a pink knit and sleek boots.
The wide-leg pairs are a fashion editor favourite.
You can’t go wrong with the OG style.
Beyond Retro is a go-to for vintage denim.
A classic that’ll never fail.
White denim isn’t just for summer, you’ll be able to style these for autumn/winter with a slouchy knit.
The grey wash will go with absolutely everything.
It’s the pair Princess Diana would have worn in the ’80s.
Add these to your everyday uniform.
I would wear these with a sweater and bright trainers.
You can flip these inside out and wear either shade of blue so they’re basically a two-for-one buy.
If you like puddle pants then these are the ones for you.
You can get these in different lengths depending on where you want them to sit on your shoes.
If you like baggy jeans but don’t want them sweeping the floor, this cropped pair is a good idea.
No matter what, skinny Levi’s will always be iconic.
You can get these in four different leg lengths so they don’t have to bunch at the bottom.
Nearly everyone will have owned a pair of black skinnies at some point.
The perfect pair to wear with trainers or loafers.
