Think of a solid pair of jeans... what comes to mind? For the majority, it's probably Levi's. As the first pair of denim jeans, the Levi's brand epitomises the classic American style. It has become ubiquitous and you can't beat that kind of marketing. But in order to stay relevant, collaboration with other IPs is key. From Mickey Mouse to The Simpsons, you name it, Levi's has worked with them all. Like with McLaren.
So, when the chance to team up with McLaren arose, why pass it up? Since its first Formula 1 race in 1966, McClaren has since won 20 Formula 1 world championships; 184 Formula 1 grand prix; the Indianapolis 500 three times, and the Le Mans 24 Hours on its first attempt. With that kind of track record, McLaren is hoping to score gold with this collection with Levi's.
Kicking it off with the cropped, boxy fit Racing Jacket. This piece captures the essence of McLaren Racing's vintage-era. It boasts chain stitch embroidery on the back, twill taping at the cuffs and hem. The Racing Suit offers a slightly dropped crotch and a spacious fit with straight legs and showcases vintage-inspired patches and a crackle print running down the right leg. Both the Racing Jacket and Racing suit comes in a light wash paired with an embossed vegan tanned leather co-branded patch.
To channel the spirit of McLaren's founder, Bruce McLaren, look no further than the three-tone Racing Gloves. Crafted from fine Italian leather and a Levi's shank for snap closure, these gloves sport an embroidered signature and an impressed McLaren logo. Inspired by vintage McLaren Racing posters, they incorporate colours from the classic McLaren colour palette and include perforations for that much-needed breathability—because clammy hands? Ugh.
The Heritage 501 Jeans exude "you're-cute jeans" as famously complimented by Kendall Jenner to her mom. The left back pocket is replaced with a shadow pocket adorned with a cackle print, topped by a red tape welt zipper pocket. Whilst the cropped and boxy Heritage Trucker exhibits a medium wash and pintucks at the elbows, with its centre-front zipper accented with red-tape.
Paying homage to McLaren's classic cars from the '80s, both the Jeans and Heritage Trucker showcase vintage-inspired patches and bold red co-branded back patches.
If you're on the hunt for a tee to rock at this year's Formula 1 in Singapore, but you want to stand out with a cooler and decidedly more stylish look, go for the Constructors Tee. It features a front graphic showcasing an '80s era McLaren race car. Pair it with the Racing Bandana, which reimagines classic Levi's western motifs through a racing lens with '80s McLaren graphics. Who knows, maybe Lando Norris might notice you.
Speeding your way on the 3 July, the Levi's x McLaren Racing Maiden Collection is available online and at the Levi's ION Orchard.
Levi's, the denim giant, has maintained its position at the forefront of fashion's ever-evolving landscape. Just like its utilitarian purpose of being exceptionally sturdy, it has withstood the test of time by staying relevant. As the brand reaches its momentous 150th milestone, it now takes another bold step on a different journey; one marked by renewed commitment to sustainability. And its doing so with a launch of eco-conscious materials that are seamlessly incorporated into its iconic blue denim.
The release pays homage to the brand's illustrious history since its pioneering patent for the groundbreaking design of the iconic 501 model. Founded by the duo, Levi Strauss and Jacob W Davis, the two men had one goal in mind: to create pants that were tougher than nails for everyday wear. That humble endeavour would spark a fashion firestorm, turning denim workwear into an absolute wardrobe essential.
In keeping with today's issues and environmental changes, Levi’s came up with the plant-based 501 jeans that are made up of at least 97% plant-based materials. Slated for release in July, it is proof that it is possible for that a fashion brand can be socially-responsible.
“As a company that has been making 501® jeans for 150 years now, we have an opportunity –and a responsibility – to continually interrogate the process by which these jeans are made”
Paul Dillinger, VP of Design Innovation at Levi Strauss & Co
Levi's, being no stranger to collaborations, partnered with sustainable businesses to take their sustainability efforts a step further for their iconic 501® jeans. But it's not just about the look, it extends beyond the surface, with thoughtful details that evoke a sense of sentimentality. The colour of the jeans is a nod to the revered Levi's X80 archival shade, reinforcing the brand's deep-rooted connection to its origins.
Minute details like having patches made from a material that is 100% bio-based and free from plastic, to the pocket bags that are crafted from 100% cotton and adorned with BioBlack TX, a plant-based black pigment derived from wood waste, developed by Nature Coatings.
We are all for corporations to pick up the slack on sustainability. For Levi's, this is a tiny step towards sustainability and we can't wait to see what other eco-initiatives they will adopt in future.
The Plant-Based 501 jeans will be available in-store at Levi’s ION Orchard and online from 25 July 2023.
