Levi's new summer denim fits are a nod to retro classics

With nearly 15 fits, from the retro-inspired flare to the laidback loose and the timeless classic straight, the brand continues to redefine denim

The role of denim as a wardrobe staple—whether it be the sleek silhouette of skinny jeans or the robust, indigo blue jeans patented by Levi Strauss in 1873—remains unwaveringly versatile.

This year, denim has evolved beyond its status as a mere runway favourite, showcased by designers including Sabato De Sarno for Gucci, Jonathan Anderson at Loewe, Miu Miu, and even Dior. Denim has emerged as a cultural symbol on the global stage. 

Celebrities like Bella Hadid and Lil Nas, alongside Louis Vuitton’s Fall 2024 collection inspired by trends from the Wild West, television series Yellowstone and its spin-offs, and Beyoncé’s foray into country music have sparked a resurgence of what is being dubbed as “cowboy core”.  Case in point, flared jeans have seen a 372 per cent increase in searches since March 2024, coinciding with Beyoncé’s announcement of her studio album Cowboy Carter. 

Building on this cultural momentum, Levi's, a pioneer in the denim industry, has launched a summer collection that captures the enduring versatility of denim while stylishly nodding to the cowboy core trend. The range introduces nearly 15 fits, highlighting not only the brand’s legacy in shaping denim culture but also showcasing how they continue to lead with innovation and flair in an ever-evolving fashion landscape.

“We're seeing a fresh take on denim with the return to classic washes and silhouettes. The reimagined shapes are the perfect addition as mainstays in our closets this season and beyond,” says stylist Surbhi Shukla.  This collection also sees a range of “Ribcage-style” jeans in both straight and loose fits. Largely available in stretch denim, the Ribcage series ensures comfort isn’t compromised, offering a fit for every preference.

Among the straight cuts in this sub-style, Levi’s pushes the envelope with their highest rise yet—a modern twist on the brand’s vintage 501s. It offers a slimmer fit through the hip for a flattering silhouette, simultaneously emphasising the waist and elongating the legs. On the other hand, the loose fits—available in both low-waist and high-waist versions—include styles like the flattering Wedgie Straight and the high-rise Ribcage Straight Ankle. “I always wear denim on denim—a lightweight denim shirt with these jeans," shares stylist Isha Bhansali. She advises opting for different blends in denim as they differ in thickness, such as the Levi’s wedgie denims. 

Loose fit: 

As the mercury climbs, Levi’s revisits fashion archives, blending iconic styles with modern tailoring. The Low Loose jeans, with their low rise and expansive leg, offer Y2K nostalgia. Bhansali notes, “Always balance out loose-fit bottoms with fitted tops—be it a crop top or a t-shirt tucked in. If you’re full around the tummy, choose a top that sits right at the waist, especially if you’re choosing a boxy shirt to give straighter lines.”  

In contrast, the High Loose jeans ascend with a dramatic high rise and voluminous legs, exuding a vintage charm elongating the silhouette. The Loose Fit collection rounds out with the '94 Baggy and '94 Baggy Wide Leg, both echoing the relaxed spirit of the '90s but with the Wide Leg version adding an extra flare for a bold, roomy finish, epitomising relaxed summer dressing. For Shukla, who often spends long hours at shoots, the ’94 Baggy Wide Leg Jeans are a work wardrobe staple. “I style mine with a tank top, an oversized blazer, and Mary Jane flats,” she says.

Flare fit: 

Levi's Flare Family lends a decidedly modern edge to the style of the ’70s. The collection starts with the Noughties Boot—low-rise, bootcut jeans peppered with millennium-inspired details like chunky stitching and playful flap pockets.“The Ribcage flared jeans have the perfect ’70s flare,” says Shukla, styling them with “a crochet top and a bucket bag,” while Bhansali recommends vintage-style jewellery and a floral or printed shirt. 

Meanwhile, the Ribcage Cropped Boot elevates the style further with a '90s twist, featuring an extra-high rise and a modern bootcut leg, infused with just enough stretch for comfort. As for the Ribcage Bell, a soaring 12-inch rise meets a vintage-inspired bell leg, crafting a silhouette that is both waist-defining and leg-lengthening. Lastly, the Ribcage Wide Leg offers the same high rise with a generous, wide-leg cut, blending retro aesthetics with unparalleled comfort.

Straight fit:

With their Straight fits, Levi's blends iconic styles with contemporary flair, offering a suite of jeans that encapsulate ease, timelessness, and versatility, making them indispensable additions to any fashion-forward wardrobe.

Leading the collection is the Wedgie Straight, meticulously crafted to evoke the quintessential vintage look. This style is engineered with a high rise and a snug fit through the hip and thigh, culminating in a straight leg. Its design smartly enhances curves, making it a must-have staple. “The Wedgie Straight fit has always been my go-to. I tend to style it with a cropped t-shirt, socks, and loafers, with a pair of tinted sunglasses,” says Shukla.

“The Wedgie is between a straight- and slim-fit denim,” explains Bhansali. “[It] gives a great shape to the derriere, I’d always do a cropped shirt or a tucked-in t-shirt to show it off. The length sits at the ankle, so I’d love sneakers or kitten heels with it.” 

Then there's the Ribcage Straight, renowned for its striking 12-inch rise that defines the waist, and elongates the legs. This pair is more than just denim; it's a confidence booster. 

Rounding out the trio is the ’80s Mom style, but in a modern iteration featuring a comfortable high rise, a relaxed fit through the thigh and calf, and a tapered ankle— laid-back while paying homage to its roots.

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