The main difference between Levi's 501 and 505 jeans is the fly: the 501 has the iconic button fly, while the 505 features a convenient zipper fly; the 501 offers a classic, structured fit that molds with wear (especially shrink-to-fit), while the 505 provides a slightly more relaxed, everyday comfort with more room in the thigh and a straighter, slightly tapered leg opening. Choose the 501 for a vintage feel and iconic look, or the 505 for easier wear, more thigh room, and a zip fly.
Levi's 501s, with their classic straight leg and button fly, offer a versatile fit that works for many body types, especially pear shapes (accentuating small waists, fitting curvy hips/thighs) and rectangle/apple shapes (creating a balanced, leg-lengthening line), with modern variations like the 501 '90s or Ribcage providing different rise/fit options for various proportions, making them a universally flattering blueprint when you find your preferred variation.
According to Levi's, a size 32 501 & 505 have the same rise and leg measurements and the 501 is 0.5" wider through the knee. They should be very similar looking. Any differences you see are probably variances from on pair to the next.
We all love our 505™ Regular Fit. It's a timeless classic known for its straight-leg design, extra comfortable room in the thigh and effortless versatility (so you can pair them with most things in your closet).
Levi's 501s are a classic straight-leg fit, not inherently baggy, but they can appear looser or more relaxed depending on sizing and how they're worn; they sit at the waist with a button fly, offering a roomier feel than skinny jeans but more structure than modern baggy styles, though sizing up or wearing them low on the hips can definitely create a baggier, 90s-inspired look.
For a smoother look, the best jeans for a belly pooch are high-waisted styles like straight-leg, wide-leg, or bootcut, especially those with built-in tummy-control panels or thicker, stretchier denim for gentle smoothing and support without squeezing, with popular brands including Spanx, Good American, Levi's (shaping styles), and Everlane.
Wear-In: Expect your jeans to feel snug at first. Over time, they'll loosen up and mold to your body.
Choosing for Your Body Type. As mentioned earlier, if you have more pronounced hips and thighs, bootcut jeans offer a wonderful balance and create a flattering silhouette. For those with a straighter or more athletic build, straight-leg jeans add the illusion of length and create a sleek profile.
Since 2010, Levi has updated the fit of the 505™ Jean. The 505™ fit was originally packaged as a 'regular' fit and when Levi changed the fit in 2010 it was packaged as a 'straight' fit. Many of the changes were not received well by customers so they modified it again in 2011.
Yes and no. They shrink immediately after washing, but if they're raw denim they'll expand with wear. Soak them in warm water when you first get them and they'll shrink down.
SIZE & FIT: These 505 Regular jeans sits at the waist with a straight leg opening and designed with room in the thigh for a comfortable fit. MATERIAL & FABRIC: Levi's 505 jeans are made from a cotton blend.
Answer: Levi's® 505™ Regular jeans are comfortable enough to wear throughout the work day and a night out afterwards. Question: Are Levi's® 505™ Regulars dad jeans? Answer: Levi's® 505™ Regular jeans are made for everyone–dads included.
Levi's Men's 501 Original Fit Jeans (Discontinued)
505 Regular
The fit: Probably the second most iconic pair of jeans from the brand, the straight leg of the 505 resembles that of the 501, with a little extra room in the leg. It's the ideal jean for the guy who just wants a straightforward pair that doesn't require too much thought or effort. Levi's.
Short answer: 501 = classic straight with a button fly and a slightly more traditional rise. 505 = straight with a zip fly and generally a touch more room through seat & thigh. Both are straight-leg staples; pick by fly + thigh room preference.
The 501s have more coverage in the seat, they are smaller in the waist, and roomier in the thighs so they work great for pear shaped body types. This is how you get that perfect booty look.
If you are unsure how much shrinkage is required, we recommend soaking the denim in cold water first to make sure they don't shrink up too much. You can always soak them again in warmer water to bring them in more if needed. Never use boiling water, as this will damage the fabric and leather patch.
The two-finger test for jeans is a simple method to check the waist fit: you should be able to comfortably slide two fingers between your waist and the waistband when standing, indicating a good balance between too tight and too loose, allowing for movement and preventing sagging. If you can fit more than two fingers, they're likely too loose; if you struggle to fit even two, they're too tight and might dig in or restrict sitting.
#1) Choose Dark Wash Denim
Darker colors are more flattering no matter what your body shape… no matter what the piece of clothing is. But if you want to look slimmer in jeans, go with dark denim. A dark wash jean is not only extremely versatile, but it elongates your legs and slims your body.
For a flattering fit, choose high-waisted pants with wide waistbands, darker colors, and structured fabrics like straight-leg, bootcut, or wide-leg styles that flow away from the midsection, while avoiding clingy materials, low rises, and bulky front details like heavy pleats or paperbag waists to smooth and balance your silhouette.
Over the years, blue has been the dominant colour of Levi's® products. But it's not the only one. A deeper look at the history of Levi Strauss & Co.
It's slim through the hip and thigh, like a good skinny jean, and follows the trend all the way down to the leg opening. The high rise accentuates your curves in all the right places. The sleek silhouette lengthens your legs. And the best part is this fit looks great on all body types (especially on petite frames).