This month, journalist Emma McCarthy charts the rise and rise of the most noteworthy jean of all time, the Levi's 501. Close ...

In 1873 Levi Strauss and his tailor, Jacob Davis, created the modern denim pants known as blue jeans, designed for workmen. Today they are a clothing staple, and an icon of fashion.

Levi’s 501 jeans became part of the permanent collections of the Smithsonian in 1964. In 1981, ... For the best fit, the company advises you to size up. Sold by Amazon. Shop Now.

The 505 is the first zip-fly jean by Levi’s, created in 1967. With a similar cut to the 501, they sit at the waist, offer a bit more room in the thigh and have a straight fit down to the leg opening.