WeeklySA_Admin501 Day: Celebrating 149 years of the epic denim…
By Mpumi Brown
On 20 May 1873, the world’s first blue jean received its official patent a day now commemorated each year as “501 Day”. The Levi’s® 501® jean’s distinctive five-pocket design, straight fit and button fly has come to signify rule-breaking, gender-bending, wear-it-how-you-want effortless cool.
What was once a utilitarian uniform has become the fit favoured by everyone from pop stars and politicians to tech rebels and rockers – and it’s the blank canvas for the creative expression of style-setters. Mystery surrounds why “501” was chosen, but one thing is for certain: it’s the number that changed everything.
To celebrate 149 years of epic denim, Levi’s hosted a 501 Day event at Levi’s Haus of Strauss Africa, setting the stage for the icon’s 150th birthday in 2023. Levi’s honoured the iconic Levi’s® 501® jeans with a space that immersed guests into the world of 501.
The event experience began with interactive stations such as tote bag laser printing, where guests were able to select a design to be printed on a unique denim tote. There were also 501® fortune cookies, and a station where you could write a postcard for a friend. Guests then journeyed through a 501 denim tunnel that signified the road to 150 years. Additional spaces at the event included some insight into 501 history and an outdoor projection area to enjoy an array of 501 content.
Earlier this year, Levi’s teamed up with local visionaries who embody the spirit of the 501, to pay homage to the pair that started it all. Following the partnership with Marcus Harvey and Obiazi Olivia Williams, Teboho Caddy Tsotetsi and Rarri now tell their 501 story as we celebrate 501 Day.
Teboho Caddy Tsotetsi (@freshbycaddy) is a radio DJ on YFM, whose career has spanned across fashion, lifestyle, music, modelling and acting. Caddy showed an interest in the entertainment industry from a young age and pursued a qualification in media studies while also becoming a TV presenter and kickstarting his career. He began his journey in entertainment in his teens, hosting Teenagers on a Mission on SABC1. Caddy values his online audience
“Not only do 501® jeans make me feel confident, but they also allow me to be comfortable. They can be styled with every item you can think of.” Say Teboho Caddy Tsotetsi
Tamryn Arends, known as Rarri is a 24-year-old Hip-Hop & Trap DJ, and the founder of ‘GSPT’ – an organisation that seeks to provide an entry point for women and members of the LGBTQI+ community in the local creative industry.
She hosts events and free DJ workshops where individuals are given the opportunity to gain knowledge about the music industry and learn the skills necessary to become a DJ. Rarri hopes to create a space for young POC (people of colour) that provides a platform and the necessary equipment to showcase and harness their talent.
“Levi’s 501®s are the real OG. When I wear my 501®s I feel like my most authentic self.” Says Rarri .
The legacy of 501 jeans continues to represent the past, present and future of iconic style, a fit that really does get better with time. Levi’s 501 jeans are available for purchase online at Levi.co.za, in Levi’s® stores and at select retail partners.
Published on the 51th Edition. Get E-Copy
