Whether you wear them or not, you probably have at least one pair of jeans in your closet. They are probably the only piece of clothing in history that has united 6 generations. In fact, this 2023 marks the 150th anniversary of the Levi’s 501. Here are 6 fun facts you probably didn’t know about the most popular garment in the history of fashion.

1. “DE NÎMES”

Its origin dates back to the 17th and 18th centuries in Nîmes. In this French city, pieces were made with a fabric that was very popular for its strength and durability. For this reason it was used, at first, to make boat sails, tents or awnings. The name of the fabric, as we know it today, comes from “de Nîmes”, hence the name “denim”.

2. “Blue Jeans” from “Bleu de Gênes”

It came to the world through France, where the city of “Genoa”, where the blue cotton came from, translates to “Gênes”. The piece of clothing became popularly known as “blue jeans”, from the original “Bleu de Gênes”.

Levis patents jeans in 1873

The first pair of jeans was patented on May 20, 1873 by Levi Strauss and Jacob Davis in California. Since then there is hardly anyone on the face of the earth who does not have a few in their closet.

4. What is the mini pocket on the right used for?

The mini pocket, usually found inside the right trouser pocket, is called a fob. It was originally used to store pocket watches worn by men at the end of the 19th century. With the evolution of the garment and societies, the fob can now hold anything from coins to chewing gum or even condoms.

5. It was not until the Second World War that jeans began to be worn by women

Its success was linked to the explosion of rock and roll, Hollywood culture and the hippie movement. Stars such as Marilyn Monroe or Marlon Brando were some of the driving forces behind this garment.

6. To produce just one pair of jeans, up to 3,780 liters of water can be consumed and 33.4 kg of CO2 can be emitted into the atmosphere.