Based on your research, how did the idea of denim fabric and blue jeans come to be?
The 501®, the world’s first blue jean, began as an innovative idea to fill a practical need. In the early 1870s, Tailor Jacob Davis was stitching up a pair of work pants for a customer when he hit on the idea of adding tiny metal pieces to the pockets. His “riveted” trousers soon became a hit and he could not keep up with the demand. Writing to his fabric supplier, Levi Strauss & Co., Davis proposed that they partner on a patent. On May 20, 1873 US Patent No. 139,121 was granted, and blue jeans were born. Denim was the natural choice for this riveted pant. Historically, denim had been a work wear fabric. It was tough and the dark indigo color hid stains and dirt. It began as a simple work pant and transformed over the years to become a style staple that is worn everywhere from the boardwalk to the catwalk. With its timeless appeal, this style became a canvas for self-expression and the uniform of musicians, models, entrepreneurs, activists and everyone in between.

A pair of 1880s Levi’s riveted overalls found in Nevada and acquired by Levi Strauss & Co. during an eBay auction