The year was 1947 and although the war had ended, the nation was much changed—and so were our 501® jeans. The end of rations allowed for the return of some familiar 501® features, like the watch pocket rivets. But it also ushered in some updates in response to the changing time and emerging middle class, like a modern, slimmer fit and the removal of extraneous details like the cinch and suspender buttons.