We’re used to seeing subtle, authentic fades from Cone Mills denim (R.I.P.), but this pair of Levi’s Vintage Clothing 1947 501XX’s that come to us from a Heddels reader in Bangkok, Thailand, are a beautiful exception to the rule.

After three years of wear and an unknown amount of washes, these LVC’s have developed a strong wear-pattern with stark, contrasting creases throughout. The thighs and seat have worn down to a chalky-white tone, with the lower legs and upper seat maintaining more indigo dye, and the pockets are frayed as hell.

And when it comes to creases, these jeans have acquired matching sets of honeycomb and whiskers – both so epic they’ve started to shred and fray.

Levi’s Vintage Clothing 1947 501 Raw Denim Jeans

• Fabric: 100% cotton selvedge raw denim
• Fabric weight: 12 oz.
• Fabric source: Cone Mills in Greensboro, North Carolina, USA
• Made in: USA
• Fit: Slim fit with straight leg
• Additional details:
  • Considered to be the definitive five-pocket jeans and 501
  • Marks the return of the double needle stitched arcuate after WWII
  • Big “E” red tab
  • Hidden rivets
  • No crotch rivet
• Available at: Unionmade for $260