Levi's Eco Men's 511 Skinny Jean : New Fit, Same Classic Style

Usually my girlfriend's the one pushing me to break out of my rut and try hipper clothing. This time, it was my editor.

I've been wearing Levi's 501 jeans as far back as I can remember, and I was happy with that. But what's a 32 W x 34 L guy going to do when he happens to fit the jeans that need testing?

When they arrived I was surprised that the looked a lot like my old jeans, but dark blue. I held them up to my old 501's, and the waistbands were the same so I figured I'd have to fit into them. And I did...and they looked great on me. I'm well past my 20's, and not totally sure if there's an age bracket for fitting into the metrosexual categorically and if I fully understand which garments might give me the distinction, so it took me awhile to decide that I could pull off the look.

That's was weeks ago, and now I'm having fun with my new pants. It's nice to have some slimmer jeans on when I'm heading off to a party or out to eat; the sleek style is dressier than my old jeans. So, I can look good enough in jeans and a tee or button-down top that we can go out to eat or most other places and I don't have to wear khaki pants!!

These jeans contain a bit of Lycra (1%), which was new for me but no problem. They still feel like jeans, just with a snugger fit that's going to help remind me to stay fit so they fit. I really like the straight, maybe slightly tapered, leg cut, too. With my long legs, I don't any extra material around my ankles to trip me up!

Although the rise is a bit lower on these jeans than on my 501's, I didn't feel like it was an adjustment at all. I was plenty covered, and thanks to the large beltloops, wore the same chunky leather belt I've been wearing for years.

Another thing I like about these jeans - the price. At $54, it's no wonder they're one of Levi's top-selling styles. For those of us who'd like to make more earth-conscious apparel purchases but can't or don't want to spend $100 or $200 for eco fashion denim, the Eco 511 jeans are a perfect option.

Eco Creds: Jeans are made out of organic cotton, pockets are repurposed cotton, fair trade.

Available in Blue Flame wash, which is dark denim colored. Sits below the waist. Rise is 9 5/8". Sizes: 29-36 W (30-34 L).

(Editor's note: I'm a big Levi's fan myself, and happy to see that they're incorporating eco practices! Also, I'm taking the stitching on the back pocket and the decorative "Honestly Made since 1853" fabric label on the inside of the 511 fly as nods to Loomstate, an eco fashion company that featured these stylistic touches on their jeans several years ago. It's fun and ironic to see these features on a pair of Levi's because the first time I reviewed Loomstate jeans I compared the great fit and simple styling to my favorite pair of Levi's. So, my denim world has come full circle, and it's true that imitation is the sincerest form of flattery. Both companies have much to offer in the eco fashion world!)

Bottom Line: If you're ready for something new from your favorite old jeans company, maybe it's time to try a new style.--E.P. (May '10)

BUY ONLINE: $70, on sale for $49 at SSense.com.

Manufacturer's Site: www.levis.com

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