How to Identify Vintage Levi's from 1970s - 1990s

Levi's blue jean brand has been considered to be around since May 20, 1873 when the two partners, Levi Strauss and a taylor by the name of Jacob Davis patented a design of a rivet added to pants for strength. To this day, this date is considered the official birthday of the blue jean.

This post will help to identify Levi's from the 1970s - 1990s eras with the various labels, buttons and tags used during those eras.

...............

Late 1960s Levi's High Waisted Bell Bottom Denim Jeans

                         

These late 1960s Levi's jeans are identifiable by the 'Talon 42' copper zipper fly. This zipper came out in the 1960s, as did the ever infamous bell-bottom style of jeans, which carried well into the 1970s.

...............

1970s Levi's Custom Wash Orange Tab Flair Jeans 

These vintage Levi's Jeans are circa early 1970s and after 1971. Prior to 1971, Levi Strauss used a "Big E" in the tab of the pants, and after 1971, switched to a small E (see left photo). Another identifiable indication is the Talon 42 copper zipper which was produced in the 1960s (see right photo).

...............

Vintage 1960s Big E Levi's Custom Made Corduroy Vest 

Levi's is not only know for its denim jeans - but vests and skirts too made-to-order! This vintage Levi's vest was custom-made/tailor-made in the early 1960s. The style speaks to the era and during this time, Levi's still used their 'Big E' on their labels.

...............

1970's Vintage Levi's Gingham Skirt 

This vintage gingham Levi's skirt is so retro and perfect for summer. It comes from the 1970s era when Levi's changed their exterior label to have a smaller E in the word 'Levi's' and also added the care tag/wash instructions after 1970.

...............

Vintage 90s Levi's Denim Midi Cut-Off Distressed Denim Skirt

Prior to the 1990s, Levi's lined the interior of their jeans with a red line of stitching. This skirt circa 1990s has regular blue lining to the interior and style of this Levi's skirt speaks to the high-waist cut-off denim trend of the 1990s. Although it is difficult to read, this skirt was also made in the USA and after the 1990s, Levi's no longer made their products in America.