Model Guide
The Levis 701, born in 1934, was Levis first women's jean. While the 501 targeted men, the 701 was developed as a women's-specific model with a slimmer, more feminine silhouette. It uses a button fly and features the 'Student Fit' label on many tags. From its 1934 debut through decades of production, it served as the core of Levis women's line and remains a highly sought vintage model. It is also the origin of today's 700 series women's line (721, 724, etc.).
The key difference between the 701 and 501 is silhouette. The 701 has a slimmer hip and straighter overall cut compared to the 501. 'Student Fit' on the tag is one of the most important 701 identification markers. Both use button flies, but the 701's cut is adjusted for women's proportions. While less recognized than the 501, Big E era 701s in good condition command significant collector premiums. 'Student Fit' text on the tag often allows definitive 701 identification — always check the tag.
1934–1954: leather patch, Big E tab, no care label, selvedge, button fly — 'Two Horse Brand' + 'Student Fit' combination confirms ultra-rare status. 1955–1971 (Big E prime): Jacron patch, Big E tab, no care label, selvedge. 1971–1981: Small e tab, care label (English only = 1971–73, multilingual = post-73), selvedge continuing. Post-1981: no selvedge, modern specs. Dating uses the same points as the 501, with 'Student Fit' label and women's-specific silhouette as additional markers.
Related women's models include the 702, 705, and 912. The 702 and 705 are women's models from the 1950s–60s with few surviving examples. The 912 is a slim-tapered model from the orange tab budget line for women. Today's 721 (high rise skinny) and 724 (high rise straight) carry forward the 700 series lineage. To distinguish these from vintage 701s, check tab color, care label, and selvedge.
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