On this day in 1873, a simple yet revolutionary idea changed the course of fashion and workwear forever. Levi Strauss and his business partner, Jacob Davis, received U.S. Patent No. 139,121 for an invention that would become one of the most iconic garments in history: blue jeans reinforced with metal rivets.

What started as rugged work pants for miners and laborers soon grew into a timeless symbol of American culture, worn by everyone from ranch hands and railroad workers to Hollywood rebels and rock ‘n’ roll legends.

A Partnership Built to Last

Levi Strauss, a German-born dry goods wholesaler based in San Francisco, provided the denim fabric. Jacob Davis, a tailor from Reno, Nevada, came up with the idea of reinforcing stress points on pants with copper rivets. Recognizing the commercial potential, Davis reached out to Strauss to partner on a patent — and history was made.

The Birth of the 501® Blue Jeans

Among the earliest and most famous jeans styles created was the Levi’s® 501®, introduced in the late 1800s. With its button fly and straight-leg fit, the 501® became a standard for durability, function, and style. It was the first pair of jeans officially manufactured under the Levi’s brand and remains the most iconic to this day.

Blue Jeans: More Than Just Pants

Over the decades, Levi’s jeans became more than functional attire — they turned into a cultural statement. In the 1950s, James Dean and Marlon Brando helped redefine jeans as symbols of youthful rebellion. In the decades that followed, jeans evolved into everyday staples, spanning all classes, ages, and continents.

From dusty gold mines to fashion runways, Levi Strauss’ invention has endured for more than 150 years, proving that good design and practicality never go out of style.

So today, May 20, we tip our (cowboy) hats to Levi Strauss and Jacob Davis — the duo who stitched their way into history.

Floating Vimeo Video