Levi’s introduced its 505 regular-fit, straight-leg jeans in the 1960s.
The 505 became one of the company’s most recognizable models outside the older 501 line. It was designed with a zipper fly, distinguishing it from the button-fly 501, and its straight-leg shape appealed to wearers seeking a less traditional workwear silhouette.
The style later became strongly associated with music and youth culture, including the visual language of rock and punk fashion. Its clean, straight profile also made it adaptable to both casual clothing and more styled outfits.
The 505 is easy to confuse with the 501 because both are classic Levi’s five-pocket jeans. The key historical distinction is that the 505 is a zipper-front model, while the traditional 501 uses buttons.