Fashion fix
Levi’s + Fast Folks launch the commuter’s (skinny jean) dream
511, meet 512. A product display at East Sixth's Fast Folks showcases Levi's newCommuter line.Photo by Jackie Rangel
Curious shoppers peruse the goods (and escape the heat) at the Fast Folks +Levi's party.Photo by Jackie Rangel
The 411: A party-goer investigates the laundry list of new biker-friendlyfeatures on Levi's classic skinny.Photo by Jackie Rangel
Oh, Austin. Could it be? Looks like we may have made a recent and less than admirable appearance on a certain worst-dressed list.
Opinions on the subject clearly differ – some are fiercely protective of our little city’s ‘eclectic’ appearance, while others wholeheartedly agree that more attention could be paid to apparel selection and ahem, grooming.
But sometimes logistics and function just have to trump fashion. Like commuting to work on your bicycle for instance. Is it really anyone’s fault that low-rise styles and unforgiving fabrics have made for a few unsightly backside blunders?
Well, yes and no. I personally think that designers/brands should take the blame for this one. Thankfully, Levi’s was ahead of the curve (no pun intended... really) and has dutifully recognized their role in the evolution of "commuter chic."
With none other than the cyclist in mind, the heritage brand reinvented their classic 511 to specifically address the style and utility issues that arise when combining two of America’s favorite things — blue jeans and bikes.
No place to put that cumbersome u-lock while en route? There’s a wide waistband-loop for that.
Worried that your black skinnies disappear into the dark? No problem. Each pair features a reflective 3M Scotchlite material on the inside seams so that when rolled or cuffed, bikers have an added defense mechanism against night drivers.
And that “lower back gap?” The Levi’s team hopes to outsmart that glitch with a higher rear yolk. Design thinking at its best right there.
Bonus factor? The pants also boast unique "Sanitized" fabric technology. In other words, they’ll stay fresher, longer.
Granted, I haven’t road tested these myself (for now, they’re just for men), but I was able to scope out a pair and appreciate its subtle stretch qualities and relatively affordable price point ($78) at the line’s recent launch party, held at Fast Folks.
Choosing to launch in markets with a well established bike culture, Levi’s partnered with only six shops in NYC, SF, LA, Philadelphia and Austin to roll out the exclusive pre-launch peek at the Commuter line (which is also now available online).
According to a Levi’s rep at the event, the word on the street is that a line for the ladies is in the "product test" stage of development…
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