What’s Trending With Tara: Vintage Levi’s
July 31 2015, Published 6:45 p.m. ET
Extra! Extra! Read all about it! The tides have turned when it comes to denim. All those designer jeans that have dominated the market for more than a decade are no longer where it’s at. Right now, there is no denim cooler or with more of an “it” factor than a good ol’ pair of vintage Levi’s. Cutoffs and full length, vintage Levi’s epitomize personal style and swag.
Maybe it is because faux distressing just looks so “faux-fake” or because now-a-days jeans seem to look more like leggings then denim, but there is no denying there is movement taking place-- bring back Levi’s! High-waisted, sturdy, hip-hugging, perfectly faded with a little red tab on the tush seals the deal when it comes to looking stylish, and you know you are in a pair of Levi’s.
Popular in the early 90’s, who didn’t covet what the cast of 90210 was wearing? And is there anyone who didn’t ogle after Cindy Crawford in the classic Pepsi commercials wearing simply a pair of Levi’s and body suit. Oh that 90s sex appeal just feels so fresh right now.
Since the best sources for vintage Levi’s are independent retailers and collectors, these sought after jeans are not as attainable as they once were in the early 90’s. Here is a little breakdown on the hottest and most flattering cuts to keep in mind when searching for your own pair:
501- Originally intended as the working man’s jean. Button fly, cut lower in the front and higher in the back with a little extra room in the thigh. These make a great choice for shapely girls.
505- Slightly lower rise and a bit more square on top then the 501s. The cut is slim and straight through the thigh and ankle. They have a zipper front that holds everything in, as compared to the button fly on 501s. This style will give a flat tush a little hug and lift.
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517- Made in 1969 to fit over boots, cut to sit below the waist, slim from hip to thigh with an authentic bootcut leg. These are for you fashion forward ladies, no doubt you will look like a fashion editor rocking these babies.
With all this said, finding a perfect pair of vintage Levi’s, the kind that makes you want to squeeze your own bum when you catch a reflection, is not an easy feat. Be prepared to shop around, and know that tailoring them to get the fit you want may be expected. Look for a wash or fade that speaks to you and a rise that flatters because tapering the leg and some hemming are easy fixes. Try sticking to the kings of the market like What Goes Around Comes Around, where the sales associates are extremely knowledgeable and inventory is very well organized. Or perhaps save the tailoring and order from Re/dune, a new brand that sources vintage Levi's and recuts the leg to have the fit of a modern pair of jeans. Either way, once you’ve found that perfect pair, there will be no turning back. You will be amazed how great the high waist line and washed out fade looks with your current faves. From tops and blazers to pumps or kicks, when worn with vintage Levi’s your style game will be on point!
Photo Credit to Toggage
Check out the Instagrams below for more ideas on how you can pull the look off yourself and follow me on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. For more tips & picks visit TaraBryanStyle.com. If you’re rocking a great look, don’t forget to give me a shout out by hashtagging #TaraCheckIt for a chance to be featured in my upcoming posts!
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