Levi’s Strauss is a pioneer in the apparel industry and is popularly known for creating products using denim. The Levis Lot 1 program offers individuals with a unique experience to receive a fully bespoke, one-of-a- kind, handmade jean. The consumer can choose from a variety of high quality denim, thread color, hardware, labels, pocket linings, and additional features upon request. Once the design details are locked in, the tailor creates a personalized pattern that fits the body of the consumer and thus begins to create a truly unique design.
Working as a Levi’s Lot 1 Tailor, my primary duties were to create custom bespoke jeans. Creating numerous high fidelity prototypes and final end products, I developed an eye for detail, form and precision which in turn led me to improve my ability as a craftsman. My secondary duties were to assist in denim repair, hemming, tapering and custom chain stitch embroidery.
Working with denim has not only improved my hard skills as a designer but also showed me the importance in repairing, reusing and how value can be added with wear and age, which contribute to improving our environmental sustainability Currently the Lot 1 experience is offered in London, Paris, Tokyo, New York and San Francisco.
2018-2020
Juki DDL 8700
Industrial overlock
Reece 101
Cornely A embroidery
Darning Machine
Darning
Adobe Photoshop
Adobe Illustrator
The process begins with a consultation with an onsite tailor. The consumer can choose from various types of denim, hardware, threads, leather patches and labels for their customized jean.
Next, the tailor takes a fitting of the consumer to create a pattern that will be unique for that specific individual. Once the measurements are recorded, the tailor will be able to recreate the silhouette in the form of a pattern.
Lastly, the tailor will begin to construct the garment using an assortment of industrial grade machine and meticulous craftsmanship. This process takes an average of 16 hours.
During my time at Levis, I had the opportunity to create and launch unique designs that met the demands of the fashion industry. As a specialist in denim jeans, I was able to produce a diverse range of styles and fits, from timeless classics to the latest trends.
In addition, I also designed and produced a variety of complementary products, such as bag accessories and chain stitch embroidery patches. These experiences have taught me the importance of staying current with fashion trends, understanding customer preferences, and consistently delivering high-quality products.
Master Tailor Lizzie Radcliffe demonstrates the process in creating a bespoke pair of Lot 1 jeans from start to finish.
