Lee's New Archive Release Revives Vintage Workwear Masterpieces from the 1940s
Lee, a renowned name in the denim world, is reviving its rich heritage with the release of two iconic workwear models from the 1940s. The company has just announced that the ‘OVERALL JACKET 91-J 1947 MODEL’ and the ‘WAIST BAND OVERALLS 11-W 1949 MODEL’ will be available for purchase starting July 10, 2026, with pre-orders open now on their online mall.
Founded in 1889, Lee has a long-standing history in producing workwear. The upcoming releases are part of the brand’s 'THE ARCHIVES' series, which aims to faithfully recreate vintage pieces that shaped its identity. Both pieces are meticulously crafted, using original materials and design details to reflect their historical significance.
The 91-J was created as a work jacket to be worn with overalls, exemplifying Lee's commitment to quality workwear. Known affectionately as the 'LOCO JACKET' due to its popularity among railroad workers, the 1947 model included various functional features. This version has been recreated to include interior pockets for train schedules, a specialized left chest pocket for items like a pocket watch and pen, plus diagonally slanted hand pockets for easy access to tools. Lee’s signature ‘JELT DENIM’, originally developed in 1925, is used for this model, ensuring durability and quality that resonates with workers today.
In addition, the jacket is adorned with the 30s-40s style 'house mark' label, a detail treasured by vintage enthusiasts that showcases Lee's commitment to authenticity.
The 11-W overalls are designed with practicality at their core. This model represents Lee's innovative approach to workwear, employing their unique JELT DENIM. With a vertical tool pocket on the right thigh, designed for items like wrenches and rulers, and a streamlined silhouette without a hammer loop, these overalls exemplify functional design. The button-fly front includes a top button featuring the 'long L' design, along with donut buttons stamped with the Lee logo, all true to the original model. The large back pocket is reinforced with bar tacks, symbolizing the durability needed in tough work conditions.
Additionally, the waist features a house mark label that represents one of the brand's earliest transitions, emphasizing its historical journey.
Starting July 10, both models will be available at select Lee retail locations (some exclusions apply) and the Edwin online mall, where reservations are already underway. Please note that in-store reservations are not accepted.
The H.D. Lee Mercantile Company began in 1889 by Henry David Lee, initially focused on wholesale food and household goods. They shifted towards manufacturing workwear in 1911, making iconographic pieces like the '101' cowboy pants and pioneering white jeans. Lee continues to innovate around the workwear foundation, adapting to modern trends while preserving its quality and ruggedness. Visit their official website and the Edwin online mall to learn more about this exciting release.
Founded in 1889, Lee has a long-standing history in producing workwear. The upcoming releases are part of the brand’s 'THE ARCHIVES' series, which aims to faithfully recreate vintage pieces that shaped its identity. Both pieces are meticulously crafted, using original materials and design details to reflect their historical significance.
OVERALL JACKET 91-J 1947 MODEL
The 91-J was created as a work jacket to be worn with overalls, exemplifying Lee's commitment to quality workwear. Known affectionately as the 'LOCO JACKET' due to its popularity among railroad workers, the 1947 model included various functional features. This version has been recreated to include interior pockets for train schedules, a specialized left chest pocket for items like a pocket watch and pen, plus diagonally slanted hand pockets for easy access to tools. Lee’s signature ‘JELT DENIM’, originally developed in 1925, is used for this model, ensuring durability and quality that resonates with workers today.
In addition, the jacket is adorned with the 30s-40s style 'house mark' label, a detail treasured by vintage enthusiasts that showcases Lee's commitment to authenticity.
- - Price: ¥52,800 (tax included)
- - Sizes (inches): 36, 38, 40, 42, 44, 46, 48, 50
- - Lot Number: LM6018-89
WAIST BAND OVERALLS 11-W 1949 MODEL
The 11-W overalls are designed with practicality at their core. This model represents Lee's innovative approach to workwear, employing their unique JELT DENIM. With a vertical tool pocket on the right thigh, designed for items like wrenches and rulers, and a streamlined silhouette without a hammer loop, these overalls exemplify functional design. The button-fly front includes a top button featuring the 'long L' design, along with donut buttons stamped with the Lee logo, all true to the original model. The large back pocket is reinforced with bar tacks, symbolizing the durability needed in tough work conditions.
Additionally, the waist features a house mark label that represents one of the brand's earliest transitions, emphasizing its historical journey.
- - Price: ¥33,000 (tax included)
- - Sizes (inches): 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33, 34, 36
- - Lot Number: LM6111-89
Availability
Starting July 10, both models will be available at select Lee retail locations (some exclusions apply) and the Edwin online mall, where reservations are already underway. Please note that in-store reservations are not accepted.
Lee's Legacy
The H.D. Lee Mercantile Company began in 1889 by Henry David Lee, initially focused on wholesale food and household goods. They shifted towards manufacturing workwear in 1911, making iconographic pieces like the '101' cowboy pants and pioneering white jeans. Lee continues to innovate around the workwear foundation, adapting to modern trends while preserving its quality and ruggedness. Visit their official website and the Edwin online mall to learn more about this exciting release.
Topics Consumer Products & Retail）
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