Levi’s Vintage Clothing to Release 1937 501® Selvedge Jeans
Via an exclusive lottery.
Summary
-
The 1937 501 original fit selvedge jeans are being released as a limited edition reproduction through an exclusive lottery system, offering collectors a chance to own a piece of early blue jean history.
-
This model marks a significant design shift including the first appearance of the iconic red tab and the introduction of concealed back-pocket rivets to prevent scratching during heavy wear.
-
Each pair is crafted from premium Japanese selvedge denim and features archival details like the cinch back and the famous salmon-colored flasher that reassured customers the rivets were still there
A true artifact of denim history is returning to the spotlight. Levi’s Vintage Clothing has announced that the 1937 501® Original Fit Selvedge Men’s Jeans will be available via an exclusive lottery, offering collectors a chance to own a meticulous reproduction of a pivotal era in American workwear. This specific model captures the moment the 501® transitioned from the Great Depression into a more modern silhouette, balancing heritage utility with refined design.
The 1937 model is defined by its high rise and relaxed, straight fit, offering a classic “anti-fit” look that remains a staple of the LVC line. A major historical highlight is the presence of the Red Tab, which had only been introduced one year prior in 1936 to differentiate Levi’s® from a growing sea of competitors. Staying true to the original specifications, these jeans feature a cinch back but dispense with the waistband suspender buttons that were common on earlier models.
Perhaps the most legendary detail is the pocket flasher. Crafted from a distinctive warm salmon-colored fabric, the flasher was a marketing masterstroke. During this time, Levi’s moved the copper rivets to the inside of the back pockets to prevent them from scratching furniture and saddles. To reassure customers that the strength of the garment hadn’t been compromised, the flasher featured a bold arrow pointing to the pocket corner with the iconic phrase: “The Rivet’s Still There.”
