Don’t think regular Levi’s can fade well? Think again! Heddels reader Sven Howard from Istanbul, Turkey, proves that the iconic Levi’s 501 STF’s will produce nice fades without having to find a top-tier denim retailer—or having to put rent on hold to afford them. After a little over two years of wear, these 501’s have taken on a life of their own, and thus have earned a spot as our Fade of the Day.

Sven wears these 501’s to his teaching job when it’s too hot for heavy denim and while he strolls around the streets of Istanbul. Because he has a few other jeans in rotation—including an older battered pair of 501’s—Sven has been able to keep these bad boys clean and somewhat dark, only washing them when he feels they need it.

These 501’s aren’t insanely contrasted, but they have a little bit of everything fade-wise. There are varying degrees of whiskering, some dirty fades on the thighs and seat, some classic honeycombing, and the telltale wallet outline. Hopefully Sven is shaping the young minds in his classes as well as he is this pair of 501’s.

Levi’s 501 Shrink-to-Fit (STF) Raw Denim Jeans

• Fabric: 100% Cotton
• Fabric weight: 12.5 Oz.
• Fabric source: Unknown
• Made in: Unknown
• Fit: Straight leg with high rise
• Additional details:
  • Levi’s signature model
  • Contrast stitching
  • Button fly
  • Unsanforized
• Available at: Levi’s for $64.00