When Hajime Inoue founded TCB in 2012, his admiration for classic vintage styles, particularly the 501XX and 66 models, inspired his journey. Initially drawn to their perceived perfection, Inoue's growing expertise in jean-making revealed the beauty in their imperfections and historical significance.
The TCB 20's jeans are a testament to this philosophy, showcasing the rich history behind simplified designs that prioritize authenticity over modern perfection. This iconic model draws inspiration from the 1922 Levi's 501, reflecting the era when jeans were often worn with suspenders and featured a cinch back for size adjustment.
To create the TCB 20's, TCB developed a proprietary fabric using Memphis cotton, chosen for its ability to achieve an authentic vintage look and develop beautiful fades over time. The denim is crafted with an 8 yarn count for both the warp and weft, resulting in a 12.5oz fabric in a deep blue indigo hue that mirrors the original jeans.
The unique unevenness and softness of the denim are achieved through the meticulous settings on vintage Toyoda shuttle looms. The fit is a faithful reproduction of the original Levi's 501 from 1922, featuring a regular straight cut with a high rise and ample space in the thighs, knees, and calves, ensuring both comfort and classic style.
Every detail of the TCB 20's is meticulously crafted to reflect the original, including the suspenders, cinch back, and wide white selvedge. Unlike the red ID introduced in the 1930s, these jeans feature a distinctive wide white selvedge, achieved by adding eight extra threads during production. Additionally, the belt loops are made from a different fabric to replicate the historical practice of adding them post-production as demand increased in that era.
Fit Notes: As many other TCB Jeans, the 60'S runs slightly small. In general, we recommend choosing one size larger than your usual. However, as always, we recommend checking the size chart first to find your perfect size. It is unsanforized but one washed, so there will be no shrinkage.