As the year comes to a close, Lee, a distinguished name in denim, is making waves with the announcement of two exclusive items in celebration of the 101 legacy. The limited collection will be available at Lee's flagship stores and online starting from late December 2025, coinciding with significant anniversaries for the legendary jeans line. Founded in 1889 originally dealing in food and household goods, Lee has carved its niche in the fabric of American culture, especially through the launch of the 101 model in 1925. This upcoming year marks an incredible milestone: the 100th anniversary in 2025 and the 101st in 2026. To commemorate this important period, Lee is set to release two standout special items.
The first item, known as the
DOCKING 101, will hit the shelves on December 24, 2025. This remarkable piece pays homage to the rich history of the 101 by merging two iconic designs from different decades: the
1930s 'COWBOY' jeans and the
1940s 'RIDERS' jeans. The design features a striking combination, using different types of denim fabric on each side. On the left, you'll find the right-plain denim from the COWBOY era, while the right side showcases the left-plain denim from the RIDERS era, each expressing their individuality in an eye-catching way. As the wearer breaks in the jeans, they will experience distinct fading on each side, illustrating the evolution and legacy of the 101 style with every wear; a truly unique section of denim history crafted for every fashion lover. Additional details, such as unique stitching and different leather labels, further enliven this limited-edition item with a playful spirit and a backstory that connects wearers to the history of Lee.
The
DOCKING 101-J, another version within the same line, highlights special features on the left side embodying the
COWBOY and right side embodying the
RIDERS. Available in sizes S, M, L, and XL for a price of ¥38,500 (tax included), this piece is identified by item number LS1410-C89.
The second item of the collection arrives on January 1, 2026, celebrating the legendary James Dean through the revival of the
RIDERS 101-Z 1955 model. James Dean, a charismatic icon for American youth in the 1950s, wore these denim pieces that became emblematic within the realm of fashionable rebellion. Specifically, in his iconic film
Rebel Without a Cause, Dean showcased the
Lee 101-Z, contributing to the popularization of jeans as a staple fashion item. His signature look—pairing a red jacket, white t-shirt, and jeans—remains a critical symbol of rebellious style today. The
RIDERS 101-Z 1955 will cater to nostalgia and style, reflecting the original design that Dean wore, complete with significant markings on the inside waistband that confirm its cinematic origins, including an 'JD' initial stamp to honor the star.
Priced at ¥33,000 (tax included) and available in various waist sizes from 28 to 38 inches, this model celebrates a distinct aesthetic that contributes to its standing as a wardrobe essential. Casual yet striking, this revival is more than just a nostalgia trip; it encompasses the very essence of mid-20th century American culture and youth identity. Both items within Lee's exclusive collection will not only highlight the brand's historical significance but will also encourage new generations to connect with the past through contemporary fashion.
This limited collection will be accessible through select Lee shops nationwide excluding outlet locations. The
DOCKING 101 will launch on December 24, 2025, while the
RIDERS 101-Z 1955 James Dean MODEL will follow on January 1, 2026, at various flagship locations, including Lee Stella Place in Sapporo, Lee Lumine Est Shinjuku in Tokyo, Lee Nagoya Shop in Aichi, Lee Luqa Osaka in Osaka, Lee Amu Plaza in Hakata, and of course, through the Edwin Online Mall. Embrace the opportunity to own a piece of fashion history with Lee's limited-edition collection as we usher in the new year with style!