5 Ways to Build a Timeless Capsule Wardrobe Around Your Denim

Because a tried-and-true pair of jeans never goes out of style.

Be honest. You know those mornings when you swear you have nothing to wear? What do you put on? Your favorite pair of jeans, right? Unlike your ex, they’ll never disappoint you. Throw on a faded graphic t-shirt and chunky combat boots, and suddenly you’re Hailey Bieber stomping around the streets of New York City. Or, sleek black boots, an oversized blazer and cat-eye sunnies take your jeans from Sunday brunch to a Monday work meeting. You work hard, but your jeans work harder. They literally look better after every wear, making them the ultimate timeless and sustainable fashion purchase.

That’s why, in honour of the 150th anniversary of Levi’s® 501 jeans (a.k.a. the most iconic, recognizable pair of jeans in history—everyone from Marilyn Monroe to Kendall Jenner has worn them), we asked Toronto-based fashion stylist Ashley Galang to help you create a timeless capsule wardrobe around your denim. From running errands to date night and yes, even work, here’s how to wear your 501 jeans for every occasion using items you already have in your closet. Thank us later!

@fashionmagazine @Levis’ iconic 501 jeans turn 150 this year! To celebrate, we’re styling them for every occasion, using items you already have in your closet. Which look is your fave? #levis #levis501 #levispartner #liveinlevis #150yearsof501 ♬ Countless – Official Sound Studio

The wardrobe must-haves

• White button down
• White t-shirt or tank top
• Grey hoodie
• Denim shirt or trucker jacket
• Oversized black blazer or leather jacket

The footwear

• Black boots
• Chunky loafers
• White sneakers
• Black or nude pumps

The accessories

• Dad cap
• Gold hoops
• Black sunglasses
• Black leather belt
• Tote bag or belt bag
• Shoulder bag

Look #1: Running Errands

The denim: Levi’s 501 Skinny Women’s Jeans in Tango Light, $118, levi.com
The add-ons: Grey hoodie + tote bag + dad cap + white sneakers

The perfect casual look doesn’t exi—oh wait… we take it back. This is the perfect casual look. Despite what you’ve probably read, skinny jeans aren’t going anywhere. These skinnies aren’t like the painted-on jeggings that you had in middle school—they’re tailored but still slightly roomy around the ankles. Keep the laid-back vibes going with a grey hoodie, white sneakers, a dad cap and a roomy tote bag to hold all of the things you weren’t supposed to buy. Going to the grocery store has never looked so good.

Look #2: Brunch with Friends

The denim: Levi’s 501 ‘90s Women’s Jeans in Sketch Artist, $128, levi.com
The add-ons: Denim trucker jacket + white t-shirt + black boots

Name a better occasion to break out the Canadian Tuxedo than brunch. Bottomless mimosas, the best people and a cool-girl ‘fit? The best recipe, IMO. To modernize the denim-on-denim look, Galang recommends pairing these relaxed straight leg ‘90s jeans with an oversized denim trucker jacket and a fitted white tee. Crank the jeans’ cool factor up a notch with square-toe leather booties—it’ll make the rips and distressing truly shine.

Look #3: Casual Fridays at Work

The denim: Levi’s 501 Original Fit Women’s Jeans in Deep Breath, $118, levi.com
The add-ons: White button down + black belt + black loafers + gold hoops

These dark wash jeans are a classic for a reason—and that’s what makes them ideal for the office. “It’s not too high waisted but it’s not low waisted. It’s that in between, the mid rise. It’s something that you can invest in and hold onto for a really long time,” says Galang. You can’t go wrong with a men’s white button down, half-tucked to show off a black leather belt, black loafers with gold detailing and gold hoop earrings. There’s no need to be nervous for your 1×1 with your boss when you’re meeting (and Pinterest) ready.

Look #4: Date Night

The denim: Levi’s 501 Mini Waist Women’s Jeans in Light Indigo, $148, levi.com
The add-ons: White tank top + oversized blazer + pumps + shoulder bag

Want to test-drive the low-rise jean trend but aren’t quite as brave as Julia Fox? These mini waist jeans hit just below the belly button, so they’re practical enough for every day (we also love the hidden button, frayed hem and tasteful rips). Add a little bit of spice to a night out with a cropped white tank top and sleek black pumps to show even more skin, then top it off with an oversized black blazer and structured shoulder bag. Is it getting hot in here or is it just you in those 501 jeans?

Look #5: Weekend Concert

The denim: Levi’s 501 ‘81 Women’s Jeans in Medium Wash, $108, levi.com
The add-ons: White t-shirt + leather jacket + black boots + black sunglasses

The vibes we’re going for here are edgy yet effortless—and these ‘81 high-waisted straight-leg jeans embody just that. They feel equally nostalgic and modern at the same time. They’re the vintage jeans you’ve hoped to find at the thrift store, but without the rummaging. A boxy white tee, hardware-heavy leather jacket, lug sole combat boots and statement sunnies mean that you can be comfortable enough to dance around and sing your heart out.

Discover even more timeless styles of Levi’s 501 denim at levi.com and scroll through our product gallery below to start shopping.