Levi’s and Japanese streetwear and denim aficionado Nigo reunited for a third collaboration based on reproduced archival designs.
The “Made in Japan” collection puts Nigo’s favorite archive piece, the Hickory Stripe 501 jean, under the microscope.
The jean arrives as Levi’s ramps up special collections for the 150th anniversary of the 501.
The 501 jean is crafted with 13 oz. “shrink-to-fit” Hickory Stripe selvedge denim that was specially developed for the collection. The jean is finished with classic details like the Levi’s Red Tab, signature button shanks, back patch and stitched arcuate on the back pockets. It comes in a vintage wash with specific threads and shanks to match the archival reference piece.
A 557XX Trucker jacket is also part of the collection. The striped selvedge denim jacket comes pre-shrunk and with special threads, sundries and a vintage wash to match the jeans.
The collection will be available on April 9 on Levi’s website, app and select Levi’s stores. It will retail for $260-$350.
Nigo, who serves as Kenzo’s artistic director and designs his own brand, Human Made, is well-versed in Levi’s history. He has spent decades sourcing rare vintage Levi’s and has accumulated one of the most expansive personal collections in the world.
The last Levi’s x Nigo collection focused on “Made in Japan” versions of the 1944 501 jean and the 506 Trucker jacket. The first collection offered aged 501 jeans and a 1950s-style Type 2 Trucker jacket.
Made in Japan denim became a larger focus for Levi’s Fall/Winter 2023-2024 collection. The product will serve as the brand’s more premium line as it discontinues Levi’s Made & Crafted.
