If you follow along on the TME Instagram, or any of our social media channels, you may have seen me go on and on (…and on) about my Levi’s 501 ’90s jeans.

These jeans are a new discovery of mine, but have become a pair I reach for every other day, and they’re amazing even when I’m simply lounging around at home.

Even though I have tried the 501 Original Fit jeans in the past and did not love them, I jumped at the ’90s jeans when I found a patchwork version, and crossed my fingers for a better outcome. They were such a hit (you might recall that I wore them to Disneyland), and I began reaching for them so often that I decided to try out a classic wash too.

I Can’t Stop Talking About Levi’s 501 ’90s Jeans: Slouchy & Understatedly Chic

Where To Buy: Nordstrom | Levi’s | Free People | Amazon | Urban Outfitters

Shop The Outfit: Levi’s 501 ’90s jeans | tank | button top | sandals

Levi’s 501 ’90s jeans are what I describe as the perfect slouchy boyfriend jeans. 

The first time I pulled on these jeans, I knew they were something special. As someone who pretty much exclusively wears high-rise bottoms, the 501 ’90s are loose and drapey enough for me to feel comfortable and confident in a mid-rise (i.e., no squeezing or pushing my skin around at my midsection), while still not quite being too baggy or oversized that I feel sloppy. They’re just right.

Left: Levi’s 501 ’90s jeans | tee | jacket (similar) | flats
Right: Levi’s 501 ’90s patchwork jeans | sweater | shoes | bag

The jeans have the right balance of off-duty comfort with an understated chic element. I feel incredibly put-together, as if I’m cosplaying the lead role in a Nancy Meyers film but with the least amount of effort. 

And feeling put-together with little to no effort is my personal favorite.

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Levi’s 501 ’90s Jeans Compared To 501 Originals

Whether you are a fan of the Levi’s 501 Originals or not (or have never even tried them), comparing them to my fave 501 ’90s version is a great way to understand the exact type of fit these jeans provide.

Levi’s 501 Original Fit Jeans – These jeans are a classic high-rise straight-leg with a regular fit through the thigh (not tight like skinny jeans, but also not quite loose). They’re a favorite among the masses, but I have just never been wild about them.

As someone who lacks any booty or curves in my waist in general, I’ve always felt the 501 Originals fit a bit awkwardly on my frame. The only word I can think of to describe it is “blah” (I’m a poet, I know).

Levi’s 501 ’90s Jeans – On the other hand, this style feels like my perfect Cool California Mom fit, with a mid-rise and looser thigh that falls effortlessly around my straight frame. 

Levi’s 501 ’90s jeans | tank | button top | sandals

I’m 5’9” (and some change), and the 32-inch inseam straight from the Levi’s website is my favorite fit in the 501 ’90s jeans. I love pairing flip-flops and ballet flats with them, and whether I’m headed out or cozying up at home, a button-up top is my choice 95% of the time.

Levi’s 501 ’90s jeans | tank | button top | sandals

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Finding Your Right Size In Levi’s 501 ’90s Jeans

As for the fit, the Levi’s 501 ’90s jeans are surprisingly flexible in sizing.

Left: size 27 | Right: size 28
jeans | top | sandals

In my true size (28), the jeans hang loose and slouchy. When I tried a size down (27), the jeans actually fit me like a glove. A size down is a great slim fit while still carrying a vintage look from the ’90s, but I personally didn’t want to lose the drapey vibe that came with my true size.

You can sort of pick and choose the exact Levi’s style that fits your personality best, which I find to be really amazing!

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Xx,
Amy

Let’s be friends on Instagram! Sharing life from a California beach town, daily style & beauty faves, and never-ending Gilmore Girl binge-athons — all with a good dose of adorable toddler content too.