The Lee® Archives | Lee®

Vintage Lee Rider Vests: Pieces of History From the Lee® Archives

Whether it began in the Rock ‘N’ Roll years or the post-war years, customized cut-off vests hit the scene as part of the uniform of biker culture. When the ’70s came around, the pre-made cut-off-sleeved Rider vest was introduced. Crafted in varying denim, chambray and corduroy fabrics, they brought a rebellious note to the Lee Rider family and were mainly sold as separates intended to be paired with matching pieces as part of a leisure suit. Worn by street speedsters, rockers and style mavericks alike—the Rider vest toughens up any look for just the right combination of grit and fashion. Find authentic vintage Rider vests, each with its own unique story and touches, in the Lee® Archives.

Authentic Vintage Denim Shorts

Cut-offs like no other. Originating as jeans from the 1970s-90s, these vintage pieces were often fashioned from a favorite pair of jeans that had worn out—giving them a whole new life as the essential pair for Summer. Eventually, the accidental icon was born, and Lee has been selling cut-off and hemmed versions ever since. Featuring the timeless look you love, but with the soft, perfectly broken-in feel that only a true Original can offer.

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Vintage Lee® jeans and jean jackets are more than stylish, they're sustainable. Choosing authentic vintage clothing is a fantastic way to help keep clothing out of landfills and give vintage pieces a new life.