Lee

Originating in 1889, the Lee brand was founded by Henry David Lee in Salina, Kansas. Initially focusing on producing durable denim garments for the working class, Lee Jeans gained popularity among laborers, miners, and farmers due to their rugged durability and comfortable fit, as well as innovations such as the zipped fly and denim overalls that the brand introduced in the 1920s. As workwear and denim transitioned into mainstream fashion in the 1950s, Lee Jeans adapted by incorporating modern cuts and washes while retaining its iconic workwear aesthetic. In the decades since, Lee introduced new models, styles and collections, including Lee Jeans for women, jackets and the now iconic Lee Carpenter Jeans, which remains one of the most popular silhouettes on the vintage denim market.