At Secret London we love to be a little bit extra. So as you can imagine, when we heard that Levi’s is celebrating the 150th birthday of the 501 Jean with not one but four different pop-ups and events, we were beside ourselves with excitement.
Yes that’s right, one of the most iconic fits in fashion history has graced our wardrobes for 1.5 centuries. And if that isn’t deserving of a big blow out, we really don’t know what is. Haven’t you guys heard? Birthdays are out, Birthmonths are in. Keep reading to find out exactly what they’ve got in store for us this May…
Explore an interactive fashion and music pop-up
To mark this momentous 150 year milestone, Levi’s is taking over Shoreditch’s Dray Walk with a free pop-up from May 18-21. The interactive event, created in partnership with artists, musicians and creatives, will celebrate the intersection of fashion and music with a special focus on Soundsystem culture and the evolution of bass culture. Visitors can immerse themselves in the vibro-acoustic therapy of the world’s first Bass Bath, try their hand at the mixing deck to create their own sounds, and explore a gallery showcasing rare 501 archival products through the ages. Not to mention there will be loads of incredible live events and performances including a panel talk hosted by DJ legend David Rodigan, followed by an evening takeover of sound clash performances curated by Keep Hush (Thursday 18 May) and a live art performance from multi-disciplinary street artist Navinder Nangla (Friday 19 May). 11 Dray Walk and Dray Walk Gallery, 91 Brick Lane, Shoreditch, E1 6QL. Opening times: 18 May 10am-4pm, 19-21 May 10am-6pm.
Personalise your denim with screen printing
Whether you’re looking to make a new Levi’s purchase, or revamp a pre-loved piece, this print shop activation is not one to miss. Taking over Levi’s Soho between May 17-21, Print Club London will be offering visitors their creative expertise on customisation. This hands-on experience will offer you the chance to print onto denim yourself, with access to limited edition Levi’s® designs. With one-to-one guidance, you’ll be walked through every step of the process, leaving with a gorgeous new garment! Entry is free, all you have to do is bring your own Levi’s piece or purchase one in store. Levi’s Soho, 41 Great Marlborough St, Carnaby W1F 7RG
Get creative at a customisation workshop
Levi’s Regent Street is also offering some special customisation opportunities in honour of the 501 birthday. Between May 18-21, the Tailor Shop will expand into a space where visitors can enjoy customisation workshops alongside their usual tailoring services. On May 20, London-based fashion designer and crafter, AJ Tinsley will also be on hand to offer his expertise. Garnering huge success on TikTok by showing viewers exciting new ways to upcycle and customise clothing, Tinsley takes inspiration from graffiti art and current fashion trends. And this hands-on experience will offer you the chance to tap into Tinsley’s expertise before printing onto denim yourself. There’ll even be a range of limited edition patches and pins available for that added personal touch. 176 Regent St., W1B 5TJ
Attend a music event to mark the occasion
To round off a weekend of ultra-stylish celebrations, Levi’s is putting on a very special birthday concert. Bringing together some of the most prominent names in the London hip hop scene, Levi’s presents 501 day has been curated in partnership with Rolling Loud, and it promises to be nothing short of legendary. With Little Simz headlining, KOKO in Camden will also welcome Unknown T and K-Trap to the stage on May 20. If that isn’t the cherry on top the icing, we don’t know what is!