It feels like I’ve spent the past five years figuring out the differences between Levi’s 501s, Wedgie and Ribcage jeans. And just when I finally feel like I’ve gotten it all down…Levi’s released a whole new slew of jeans.
Now, in addition to my beloved 501s, there are 501 ’90s jeans (and a 501 ’80s version that I’m completely ignoring), a whole line of “Baggy” Levi’s (Baggy Dad Jeans, Baggy Bootcut, etc.) as well as — dun, dun, DUN — ’70s high-rise flare jeans that happens to look verrrrry similar to Ribcage as I know it.
Levi’s, what the heck?
Figuring Out Levi’s Jeans: 501s Vs. ’90s Vs. Baggy Bootcut Vs. Dad Vs. ’70s Flares
Since Levi’s is clearly feeling some kind of way about keeping us on our toes…I decided to order AllTheJeans in an attempt to figure this all out. In this video, I go into the differences between the 501s and 501 ’90s, discuss the sizing of the new “Baggy” line (I literally ordered three sizes of the same pair), as well as try on those 70’s High-Rise Flares that look seriously cute. Spoiler: They ARE (and also at Nordstrom, FYI)..
Also, gold star if you make it to the end of the video. Syd, per usual, has the last laugh. 🙂
1. Levi’s 501 Original Fit Jeans
The Levi’s 501 Original Fit Jeans are my longtime favorites. In the video, I’m trying on a size 27, my regular size in Levi’s 501s. That said, they’re too small. Confusingly, my old favorite Levi 501s, bought several years ago, are also a size 27, yet they fit perfectly (if not a tiiiny bit loose). It’s proof that these jeans do break in over time. That said, I still recommend sizing up one size in 501s.
Here’s a shot of my old Levi’s 501 originals, perfectly broken in and size 27:
NOTES: When I bought those original Levi’s several years ago, my jean size at the time was actually a 26, so sizing up one size does work (and happily, the 501’s grew with me over time, haha).
501s | similar “vote” hoodie (S) | exact heels on eBay (or similar) | similar bag
2. Levi’s 501 ’90s Jeans
The 501 ’90s Jeans are a little looser, and I recommend going with your typical size. Size up only if you want loosefitting jeans.
501 ’90s (27 X 30) | sweater (S) | sneakers
NOTES: While I’m trying on a different wash in the video, I do, in fact, own the Levi 501 ’90s in the patched wash above. I’ve found that the patching makes them a little heavier weight, tho, and I wouldn’t recommend them for summer. These were, however, one of my favorite pairs of jeans in Vermont this past winter, and felt especially fun and fresh in spring.
3. Levi’s Baggy Dad Jeans
In the video, I try on the Levi’s Baggy Dad Jeans in my regular size (27), as well as one size down (26) and one size up (28). Oddly enough, all work…yet have very different vibes. These jeans can also be found at Nordstrom (30-inch inseam only).
baggy dad jeans (28 X 28) | top (6) | bag | flip-flops
NOTES: I ended up keeping the size 28s. I love the slouchy, hang-off-the-hips vibe — especially for summer — and they look perfect with little tops and flip-flops. These have been some of my most-worn jeans lately.
4. Levi’s Baggy Bootcut Jeans
I’ve owned Levi’s Baggy Bootcut Jeans since last winter, when I purchased them to wear with cowboy boots (yee haw).
baggy bootcut (27 X 30) | tank (M) | sneakers | hoops
NOTES: Not only do these jeans work with cowboy boots, but they also basically look good with all kinds of winter/rain/weather/rugged boots. Once the weather warmed, I started wearing them with flat sandals and Vans (I appreciate the vintage ’90s vibes of these jeans). Fit is TTS (I’m wearing my usual 27).
5. Levi’s ’70s High-Rise Flare Jeans
While these Levi’s ’70s High-Rise Flares do look very similar to the Levi’s Ribcage, they seem to fit me better (although I cannot figure out why). In short, they’re freaking amazing. One of the sexiest pairs of jeans I own.
jeans (27 X 30) | tank (XS) | similar sneaks 1 or 2 | similar Apple Watch band
NOTES: Fit is TTS, and I love that they come in different lengths at Levis.com. They’re also at Nordstrom (but 32-inch inseam only).
xo,
S
Oh hey, pinners…
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