What is the difference between the Levi's 501 and 505?

The primary distinction is the fastening: the 501 features a classic button fly, whereas the 505 is constructed with a zip fly. In addition, the 505 generally offers a fraction more room through the thigh and a slightly less tapered leg.

How do Levi's jeans fit?

The fit depends entirely on the specific silhouette. While Levi's maintains consistent inch measurements for waist and length, a 511 Slim will naturally feel substantially closer to the body than a 501 Original. We recommend consulting the individual style's size guide or trying on a couple of fits.

Do Levi's jeans shrink in the wash?

Only dedicated 'Shrink-to-Fit™' models, crafted from unwashed raw denim, are designed to shrink significantly. Most contemporary Levi's jeans are pre-shrunk and pre-washed, meaning they retain their shape and size when washed according to care instructions.

Why do some Levi's feature a 'blank' Red Tab?

The Red Tab is a registered trademark. To legally maintain this trademark protection, Levi's intentionally manufactures a small percentage of garments featuring a plain tab bearing only the ® symbol. Finding one is relatively rare, and it is a 100% authentic Levi's product.

What is the best way to wash Levi's jeans?

To preserve denim colour, handle, and shape, it is best to wash your jeans sparingly. When necessary, turn the jeans inside out, wash on a cold cycle (maximum 30°C), and hang them to air dry rather than using a tumble dryer.

Is Levi's a sustainable brand?

Levi's implements meaningful initiatives to lower its environmental footprint, including its Water<Less® manufacturing techniques and incorporating sustainable fibres such as hemp. The brand also emphasises the enduring longevity of its garments, though environmental sustainability remains an ongoing endeavour across large-scale fashion brands.

Levi's

Levi's in short

Levi's is an iconic American clothing brand, globally renowned for its denim jeans. Founded in 1853, it is the originator of the 'blue jean', with the Levi's 501 standing as its most legendary model. The brand is synonymous with durable quality, authenticity, and timeless style.

A stack of folded denim jeans in varying shades of blue, resting on a wooden surface with soft side lighting.

Facts and background

Topic	Overview
Founded	1853, by Levi Strauss
Origin	San Francisco, California, USA
Owner	Levi Strauss & Co.
Renowned for	The 501® jeans
Price point	Mid-range

The story of Levi's began in 1853, when Bavarian immigrant Levi Strauss established a wholesale dry goods business in San Francisco. In 1873, together with tailor Jacob Davis, he patented the concept of adding copper rivets to points of strain on work trousers. This marked the birth of the blue jean, which quickly became the favoured workwear of miners, cowboys, and labourers across the American West. What started as functional utilitarian wear evolved throughout the 20th century into a symbol of youth culture, freedom, and individuality, embraced by film icons, musicians, and generations worldwide.

Which Levi's fit is right for you?

For the definitive classic — The 501® Original is the blueprint for all denim jeans. Featuring a timeless straight fit and its signature button fly, this is the silhouette that never goes out of fashion. An effortless foundation for virtually any casual wardrobe.
For a modern, tailored look — The 511™ Slim offers an excellent alternative if you prefer a leaner silhouette than the 501®. These jeans sit slim through the thigh with a subtle taper towards the ankle, without feeling restrictive. Comfortable and versatile.
For a flattering high rise — The Ribcage Straight Ankle is acclaimed for its ultra-high waist, the highest in the Levi's lineup. This cut defines the waist and features a straight leg that crops neatly at the ankle, delivering a contemporary yet vintage-inspired aesthetic.
For the iconic denim jacket — The Trucker Jacket is every bit as legendary as the 501®. It serves as the ultimate transitional layer, looking just as refined worn over a collared shirt as it does styled casually over a simple T-shirt. A perennial staple in any wardrobe.
For classic comfort with a zip — The 505™ Regular is the counterpart to the 501®. Introduced in 1967, it offers the same timeless straight-leg cut, but with the practicality of a zip fly instead of buttons. Ideal for those who appreciate the look of the 501® with added ease.

Sizing, fit, and the famous 'shrink'

Levi's jeans are typically sized in inches, indicated by W (Waist) and L (Length). This makes finding an accurate fit relatively straightforward. Nevertheless, cuts can vary significantly from one style to another; a 501® sits quite differently from a 511™. While many find the sizing true to size, trying on different cuts is always worthwhile to discover your ideal fit.

A notable hallmark of the brand is 'Shrink-to-Fit™', exclusive to original, unwashed 501® models crafted from rigid denim. These are specifically designed to shrink and conform to your body after their first wash. It is worth noting, however, that the vast majority of Levi's jeans available today are pre-shrunk. These garments have already been treated and will experience minimal shrinkage. Furthermore, most modern styles incorporate a subtle touch of elastane for enhanced comfort and freedom of movement right from the first wear.

Buying Levi's in the Netherlands

Levi's is widely available across the Netherlands. The brand operates standalone Levi's Stores in major cities alongside its official Dutch online store. In addition, an extensive selection can be found at leading department stores such as de Bijenkorf, as well as numerous independent boutiques and online retailers. Due to its enduring appeal, there is also a vibrant market for pre-owned and vintage Levi's, accessible through platforms like Vinted or specialist vintage boutiques. When purchasing via unofficial channels, do remain vigilant against counterfeits; buying through authorised retailers ensures complete authenticity.

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Frequently asked questions about Levi's

What is the difference between the Levi's 501 and 505?: The primary distinction is the fastening: the 501 features a classic button fly, whereas the 505 is constructed with a zip fly. In addition, the 505 generally offers a fraction more room through the thigh and a slightly less tapered leg.
How do Levi's jeans fit?: The fit depends entirely on the specific silhouette. While Levi's maintains consistent inch measurements for waist and length, a 511 Slim will naturally feel substantially closer to the body than a 501 Original. We recommend consulting the individual style's size guide or trying on a couple of fits.
Do Levi's jeans shrink in the wash?: Only dedicated 'Shrink-to-Fit™' models, crafted from unwashed raw denim, are designed to shrink significantly. Most contemporary Levi's jeans are pre-shrunk and pre-washed, meaning they retain their shape and size when washed according to care instructions.
Why do some Levi's feature a 'blank' Red Tab?: The Red Tab is a registered trademark. To legally maintain this trademark protection, Levi's intentionally manufactures a small percentage of garments featuring a plain tab bearing only the ® symbol. Finding one is relatively rare, and it is a 100% authentic Levi's product.
What is the best way to wash Levi's jeans?: To preserve denim colour, handle, and shape, it is best to wash your jeans sparingly. When necessary, turn the jeans inside out, wash on a cold cycle (maximum 30°C), and hang them to air dry rather than using a tumble dryer.
Is Levi's a sustainable brand?: Levi's implements meaningful initiatives to lower its environmental footprint, including its Water<Less® manufacturing techniques and incorporating sustainable fibres such as hemp. The brand also emphasises the enduring longevity of its garments, though environmental sustainability remains an ongoing endeavour across large-scale fashion brands.

Geschreven door

Brands.nl editorial team

Brand editors — interior, fashion & lifestyle

Brands.nl is an independent Dutch brand guide that sells nothing itself. Our editors follow brands, materials and collections and describe them independently, so you know what you are buying and can find similar brands.

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Laatst inhoudelijk gecontroleerd: 2 november 2026

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