Lee introduced the 101 denim line in 1925.
The Lee 101 designation became one of the company’s important product identifiers and was used for jeans and other denim garments. The H. D. Lee Mercantile Company had already entered workwear and clothing production before building a major reputation for denim.
The 101 line is often discussed alongside Lee’s other historic innovations, including the Union-All work garment introduced in 1913. The company’s history also includes influential western and workwear products, but the 101 launch is a distinct denim milestone.
Lee is frequently confused with Lee Cooper, a separate British denim brand. Lee itself developed in the United States, while Lee Cooper originated in England. Both names have long histories, but they are not the same company.