Blue jeans could be considered the cornerstone of American fashion. It transcends gender and age---everyone wears jeans! Though jeans have changed significantly in purpose and style since their invention years ago, blue jeans still retain its status as an American icon.

As of 2009, the denim industry produces $13 billion in annual sales. This is incredible growth, considering that the first pairs of denim overalls sold for less than a dollar in the 1800s.

Origin
Jeans were first mass-produced in America in 1873 by Levi Strauss & Company. The first styles featured three pockets; a watch pocket was added in 1873, and an additional back pocket added in 1905, establishing the classic five-pocket jean.

Function
Though now considered a fashion item, jeans were initially sold to miners in the 1800s as durable work clothing. The strong denim fabric held up in the tough working environment.

Fashion Trends
Jeans transcend fashion---they're never out of style. However, jeans are certainly not immune to receiving fad treatments. Bell bottoms, acid washing, zippers, bleaching and stone washing are just a few of the trends in this item's history.

Fun Fact
The name "denim" is said to derive from the French term for a specific cotton/wool blend fabric, "serge de Nimes." This textile was produced in Nimes, France, in the 1800s.