Levi’s is hosting unmissable events in London this month

May 20, 2023 marks 150 years since the invention of the 501 jean – and Levi’s is going all-out to celebrate
Photograph: Yushy
Photograph: Yushy
Written by Time Out. Paid for by Levi's
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As a brand, Levi’s is undoubtedly iconic; and the most famous of all its creations is the 501 jean. Created for Californian miners and now worn all over the world, the 501 has been reimagined and reinvented for 150 years, embedding effortlessly into new decades, subcultures and styles. 

That’s why we reckon it’s well worth celebrating Levi’s’ 150th birthday in May 2023. This month will see free workshops, awesome events and very special performances popping up across the capital. Here’s what to expect…

May 18-21, Dray Walk

Dray Walk – located just off Brick Lane – is hosting a four-day pop-up that’s completely free to attend. Enter the space and the first thing you’ll notice is an enormous sound system and console deck. And guess what? You can even have a go at creating your own sounds on the deck. This interactive space is designed to celebrate the history of the 501 through bass culture; look out for a mind-map on the wall by artist Cedar Lewisohn, linking musical genres within sound system culture. Of course there’ll be classic archival Levi’s pieces on display – and you can admire them as you listen to era-defining music associated with each style of 501s. And when it’s time to relax? Step into a vibro-acoustic therapy ‘Bass Bath’, where you’ll feel the power of soothing low frequency vibrations. In the space across the road, you’ll have the chance to purchase limited edition 501s and T-shirts. Nice!

Drop in any time, or follow @‌LevisLondon for intel on DJ appearances, artists unveiling their work and panel talks from fashion and culture luminaries. 

2. Exclusive screen print designs with Print Club

May 17-21, Levi’s Soho Great Marlborough Street

Heard of Print Club London? This Hackney-based screenprinting studio and gallery is popping into Levi’s Soho Great Marlborough Street to help celebrate the 501 jean. Simply bring in your existing Levi’s product or purchase something in-store on the day – whether it’s a T-shirt, pair of jeans or denim jacket – and Print Club will print an exclusive design onto it for free in front of your very eyes. You can even take part in the printing process if you want to!

3. The chance to customise your 501s

May 18-21, Levi’s Regent Street

Levi’s 501s have never been precious about uniformity. The beauty of the 501 jean is its versatility: in 150 years, Levi’s has released them in different washes, with ripped knees for a grungier look, and our personal favourites, the ’90s-inspired ‘Crazy Leg’ style. Levi’s Regent Street store is celebrating this legacy by expanding its Tailor Shop and offering exclusive ways to customise your 501s. It’s curated by fashion designer AJ Tinsley – the 26-year-old Belfast-born talent who is loved on TikTok for his DIY clothing tips. The customisation experience runs from Thursday to Sunday, but Tinsley himself will be there on the weekend running creative workshops inspired by the 501 jean. 

4. A Little Simz gig

Sat May 20, KOKO Camden 

An epic anniversary deserves an epic party – and we reckon it doesn’t get much better than a gig at KOKO Camden with Little Simz. Levi’s Presents Little Simz in partnership with Rolling Loud will see the lauded north London singer, rapper and actor take to the stage. Expect hypnotic hits from her Mercury Prize-winning 2021 fourth album ‘Sometimes I Might Be Introvert’ and her new record ‘No Thank You’. She’ll be joined by Hackney rapper Unknown T and south London rapper K-Trap. 

Tickets have sold out, but you can win tickets by following @LevisLondon. Good luck!

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