Levi's 501 jeans have been named the most iconic clothing item in Britain, according to a new survey. The classic denim garment secured the top spot with 17 percent of respondents identifying it as a timeless classic.
The survey, commissioned by Nationwide Building Society, polled 2,000 individuals to determine the nation's most beloved fashion staples. Following Levi's 501 jeans, Nike Air Max trainers placed second with 15 percent of the vote, while vintage band t-shirts and cowboy boots tied for third at 13 percent each.
The list of the 20 most iconic items also includes The North Face puffer jacket, Ray-Ban aviators, a blue denim jacket, Barbour wax jackets, and Burberry trench coats. Other notable inclusions are Lacoste polo shirts, Gucci loafers, Ralph Lauren cable-knit jumpers, and the ubiquitous little black dress.
The research highlights a strong British affinity for vintage items, with eight in ten participants agreeing that finding a pre-loved bargain is a significant mood booster. Nearly a third of those surveyed hunt for second-hand clothing due to its affordability, while one in five prioritize the perceived quality of older pieces.
Several public figures were noted wearing items from the list. Andy Burnham was recently seen in Birkenstocks, while Kate, the Princess of Wales, has been photographed in a Barbour jacket. Noel Gallagher was pictured in a Lacoste shirt in 1998, and Alexa Chung wore a Burberry trench coat during London Fashion Week.
Mel C, from the Spice Girls, was featured wearing Nike Air Max trainers, which were introduced in 1987 with revolutionary air cushioning technology.
Other items making the top 20 include New Balance 530 trainers, Vivienne Westwood orb necklaces, Harrington jackets, and pleated tennis skirts. The survey data was provided by Nationwide Building Society as part of their Fairer Share Drops initiative.